This e-newsletter brings you the latest information and resources on biophilic design, the industry, and GPGB updates. 

Credits: “9 Stories of Hope for Earth Day 2026,” Metropolis Magazine, April 2026.

In a timely Earth Day feature published this April, Metropolis highlights a powerful shift in the design industry: the move from sustainability as mitigation to regeneration as a core design mandate. Showcasing a collection of forward-thinking projects, the article illustrates a future where nature is not an applied layer, but a driving force in how buildings function, perform, and connect to their ecosystems.

Nature as Essential Infrastructure:
The most compelling shift is the repositioning of natural systems—planting, daylight, water, and biodiversity—as integral components of the built environment. Rather than being treated as aesthetic enhancements, these elements are increasingly embedded into the spatial and functional logic of projects. For specifiers, this reframing is critical: when nature is treated as infrastructure, it becomes far less vulnerable to value engineering and far more central to performance outcomes.

Regenerative Thinking in Practice:
The projects featured demonstrate how design teams are moving beyond reducing harm to actively restoring environmental systems. This includes integrating living systems that support biodiversity, improve air quality, and contribute to climate resilience. Interiors are no longer isolated from these strategies—they are becoming key interfaces where occupants directly experience the benefits of regenerative design.

Biophilic Design as Performance Strategy:
Biophilic design is evolving into a measurable, multi-dimensional approach. Beyond visual greenery, designers are leveraging natural materials, light, spatial variability, and sensory engagement to create environments that support cognitive function, emotional wellbeing, and long-term occupant health. These strategies are increasingly aligned with frameworks such as WELL and ESG, reinforcing their role in high-performance interiors.

Credits: Valentine, C., Mitcheltree, H., Sjövall, I. A. K., & Khalil, M. H. (2025). “Architecturally Mediated Allostasis and Neurosustainability.” Brain Sciences, 15(2), 201.

A new paper from researchers at Cambridge and UCL highlights how the built environment directly impacts brain health. The study introduces “architecturally mediated allostatic load”—the cumulative stress our bodies experience from prolonged exposure to poorly designed spaces—and its effects on cognition, emotional regulation, and overall wellbeing.

The research shows that visual stressors such as harsh lighting, lack of natural elements, and poor spatial design can activate the body’s stress-response systems over time, potentially contributing to anxiety, depression, and cognitive decline. These environmental factors also influence key brain regions responsible for memory, decision-making, and emotional control.

A central concept introduced is “neurosustainability”—a design approach focused on creating environments that actively support neurocognitive health. Biophilic design is identified as a key strategy, helping counteract stress responses and promote healthier brain function.

Key takeaways:

• Built environments can trigger chronic stress responses that impact long-term brain health.
• Design influences neuroplasticity in critical brain regions tied to memory and behavior.
• Biophilic elements play a vital role in reducing stress and supporting wellbeing.
• The framework opens the door for future research and practical design guidelines.

Bottom line: Buildings are not passive spaces—they actively shape how we think, feel, and function. This research strengthens the case for designing environments that promote brain health, positioning biophilic design as a powerful tool for both real estate and public health.

How do you turn a building into a high-performing asset that attracts and retains tenants? According to biophilic design expert Jennifer Walsh, the answer lies in combining nature with neuroscience.

In her BOMA 2025 session, Walsh introduced “The Nature Dividend”—an evidence-based approach that positions greenery as a driver of asset value, not just an aesthetic feature. As workplace expectations evolve, integrating natural systems into buildings is becoming a competitive advantage for owners and developers.

Key takeaways:

• Science-backed design: Insights from neuroscience and neuroaesthetics show how nature reduces stress and improves focus.
• Beyond décor: “Biophilic Design 2.0” treats nature as essential infrastructure, not an add-on.
• Boosting occupancy: Strategic use of natural elements can increase tenant satisfaction and long-term retention.
• Measurable ROI: Integrated living systems can deliver quantifiable returns across commercial and mixed-use properties.

About the speaker:
Jennifer Walsh is a global leader in wellness, beauty, and neuroscience, with more than 25 years of experience. She is the founder of Beauty Bar and leads LABH (The Lost Art of Being Human). Walsh also advises leading institutions including the University of Pennsylvania’s Center for Neuroaesthetics and the Brain Health Initiative (Harvard/Mass General), helping organizations align built environments with human biological needs.

The architecture and design industry’s biggest event of the year—AIA26 Conference on Architecture & Design—is set for June 10–13 in San Diego, bringing together thousands of architects, designers, and AEC leaders shaping the future of the built environment.

This year, Green Plants for Green Buildings (GPGB) is inviting attendees to do more than just learn about biophilic design—they’re inviting you to experience it.

Step Inside an Immersive Biophilic Experience

At booth #4544 (10’ x 20’), GPGB will transform a section of the expo floor into a living demonstration of how nature impacts human health, behavior, and performance. Past AIA installations have shown that these environments are more than visually appealing—they’re magnetic. Attendees naturally gravitate toward them, slow down, engage longer, and even report feeling calmer and more energized simply by being in the space.

This immersive booth is designed to showcase exactly what GPGB advocates: that plants and natural systems are not décor—they are powerful tools for improving how people feel and function within buildings.

What You’ll Discover at the GPGB Booth

Visitors to the GPGB experience can expect to:

• Feel the difference: Experience firsthand how biophilic environments reduce stress and enhance wellbeing
• Find a provider: Connect with qualified plantscaping professionals in your region
• Book CEUs: Explore GPGB’s catalog of 9 accredited continuing education courses and book a free CEU with a Registered Trainer in your area
• Explore the science: Dive into research linking nature to improved cognitive function, productivity, and occupant satisfaction
• Apply it to your projects: Learn practical strategies to integrate living systems into commercial, healthcare, hospitality, and workplace environments

Why It Matters Now

As the built environment evolves, the integration of nature is no longer a “nice-to-have”—it’s a strategic advantage. GPGB’s mission is to advance the use of plants in buildings to support health, sustainability, and economic performance, with research showing benefits ranging from stress reduction and improved mood to increased property value and occupancy rates.

At a conference focused on innovation, climate, and the future of design, biophilia is emerging as one of the most actionable, human-centered solutions available.

Don’t Miss It

AIA26 is known for its unmatched expo, CE opportunities, and networking across the $700B AEC industry. But if you’re looking for a moment that truly stands out—one you can feel, not just see—make sure GPGB booth #4544 is on your list.

Come experience the future of design—rooted in nature.

The commercial design industry is gearing up for NeoCon 2026, taking place June 8–10 at THE MART in Chicago, with a Preview Day on June 7. Known as the world’s leading platform for commercial interiors, NeoCon brings together more than 50,000 design professionals and 400+ brands to explore the ideas, products, and innovations shaping how we design spaces where we work, live, and heal.

This year, Green Plants for Green Buildings (GPGB) is bringing the science of biophilic design directly to attendees through a compelling virtual CEU:

Wellness-Driven Interiorscapes for Sustainable Design

Presented by Shane Pliska, Director of GPGB and President of Planterra

As designers face increasing pressure to create spaces that support both human health and environmental performance, this session delivers timely, research-driven insights into how interiorscapes can meet that challenge.

Why Attend

This CEU explores how biophilic design and neuroaesthetics are transforming commercial interiors from static environments into dynamic, human-centered ecosystems. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how interior plant systems influence:

• Indoor environmental quality and air health
• Cognitive performance and productivity
• Emotional wellbeing and stress reduction
• Sensory experience and occupant satisfaction

Drawing on the latest research and real-world case studies, the session demonstrates how interiorscapes are not just design features—but strategic tools that enhance building performance.

From Research to Real-World Impact

Participants will learn how integrating plants into interior environments can help projects:

• Align with WELL and LEED certification goals
• Improve occupant experience across workplace, healthcare, and public spaces
• Deliver measurable ROI through healthier, more engaging environments

By connecting neuroscience, sustainability, and design, this session reinforces GPGB’s mission: advancing the use of plants in buildings to support people, planet, and performance.

About the Presenter

Shane Pliska is a recognized leader in biophilic design and interior landscaping. As President of Planterra, he has led transformative projects across corporate, healthcare, and hospitality environments, including large-scale living walls and immersive plant installations. He is also the author of the Planterra Lighting Guide for Interior Landscape Design and creator of the Planterra Conservatory.

Serving on the boards of GPGB and the National Horticulture Foundation, Pliska brings both industry leadership and practical expertise to this engaging session.

Don’t Miss It-Register Today!

NeoCon 2026’s theme—“Where Design Connects”—highlights the growing importance of linking people, products, and ideas in meaningful ways. GPGB’s CEU embodies that mission by connecting cutting-edge science with actionable design strategies.

If you’re attending NeoCon, this is your opportunity to discover how interiorscapes can elevate your projects—and the people who experience them.

GPGB’s monthly Supporter Open Forums are quickly becoming one of the organization’s most valuable member benefits—bringing together industry leaders, innovators, and practitioners for timely, practical conversations shaping the future of the built environment.

The latest session drew over 80 participants, reflecting growing momentum and strong engagement across the GPGB community. Designed as an interactive, peer-driven forum, these sessions provide supporters with direct access to emerging ideas, real-world applications, and collaborative dialogue.

Real-World Insights: AI in Business

This month’s forum focused on AI implementation in business, featuring expert insights from industry leaders including Jeremy Derringer (NewPro Containers) and Jacob Rodriguez (Natura). Attendees explored how AI is being applied today to streamline operations, enhance sales strategies, and improve overall efficiency.

Key highlights included:

• Practical uses of AI for legal, marketing, and operational workflows
• Development of custom GPT tools for sales prospecting and negotiation training
• Integration of AI with platforms like HubSpot to drive revenue and reduce administrative burden
• Real-world examples of building apps and automation tools to improve service delivery

Speakers emphasized that AI is no longer a future concept—it’s an accessible, scalable tool that organizations of all sizes can leverage today.

A Collaborative Learning Environment

What sets GPGB’s Open Forums apart is the interactive, community-driven format. Attendees are encouraged to ask questions, share experiences, and explore solutions together. Discussions extended beyond tools and tactics to include data privacy, governance, and best practices for responsible AI adoption.

Why It Matters

Each month on the last Wednesday of the month at 12pm EST, GPGB hosts a collaborative forum where participants can exchange insights, ask questions, and learn from one another. As the industry continues to evolve, GPGB’s Open Forums are helping supporters stay ahead—connecting innovation with application and fostering a collaborative network committed to advancing plants, sustainability, and performance in the built environment.

Join the Conversation

GPGB supporters are encouraged to attend upcoming sessions to stay informed, inspired, and connected.

Not a supporter yet? Join GPGB to gain access to these exclusive forums and be part of the conversation shaping the future of biophilic design and the built environment.

Check your emails and calendar invitation for the next sessions’ details.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership. Your engagement helps drive GPGB’s mission forward—elevating green building practices and expanding the role of nature in the built environment. Because of you, we’re able to advocate, educate, and innovate in ways that positively impact both people and the planet.

Here are a few recent highlights made possible through your support:

• Inspiring the Next Generation: GPGB proudly sponsored the Interior Plant Identification and Biophilic Interiors Learning Sessions at the NALP National Collegiate Landscape Competition, helping educate and inspire future industry leaders.
• AIA Conference on Architecture 2026: We look forward to connecting with many of you at our upcoming booth, continuing important conversations around sustainable, human-centered design.
• NeoCon 2026 CEU: GPGB will present Wellness-Driven Interiorscapes for Sustainable Design, exploring how integrated plant design supports health, productivity, and performance.
• Advancing Inclusive Design: We’re developing a new CEU on Designing Neuroinclusive Spaces, expanding the dialogue around wellness, accessibility, and biophilic environments.

Your support makes this work possible. Together, we’re shaping healthier, more sustainable, and more inclusive spaces.

Bring Your Projects to Life with Biophilic Experts

Designing healthier, more sustainable spaces starts with the right team. The GPGB Provider Directory connects you with trusted interiorscape professionals, suppliers, and growers who specialize in integrating plants into the built environment.

These experts do more than install greenery—they partner across the project lifecycle to design, source, install, and maintain living systems that enhance wellbeing, improve indoor environments, and support productivity. Whether it’s custom plant installations, innovative containers, or ongoing care, GPGB’s network delivers solutions that align with your design vision and performance goals.

Explore the GPGB Provider Directory and discover how to seamlessly integrate nature into your next project—with confidence and expertise.

Credit: Urban Spikes Dallas 

This elegant installation by Urban Spikes Dallas highlights the artistry of modern succulent design within a refined interior setting. A sculptural driftwood centerpiece anchors the composition, with carefully placed succulents and moss creating a balanced interplay of form, texture, and color. Set within a sleek glass vessel, the arrangement feels both organic and architectural—complementing the clean lines of the kitchen while adding warmth and natural character. Urban Spikes is known for blending natural materials with curated plant selections to create bespoke botanical installations that function as living art. This piece exemplifies how even a single, thoughtfully designed arrangement can transform a space—bringing softness, visual interest, and a meaningful connection to nature into everyday environments.

Credits: EILO

ZUIDKOOP- The Netherlands

At Amsterdam’s iconic Infinity building, a once-removed courtyard garden has been thoughtfully reimagined into a vibrant, nature-integrated workspace. Collaborating with interior designer Casper Schwarz, the project restores greenery to the heart of the building—blending a dynamic work café with layered indoor planting that supports connection, relaxation, and productivity.

By repurposing original tree boxes into both seating and planters, and introducing a rich mix of trees and understory plants, the design creates immersive, garden-like zones within the atrium. Striking green roofs atop meeting rooms further blur the line between architecture and nature, bringing greenery into every sightline.

The result is a biophilic environment where planting is not just aesthetic, but functional—enhancing acoustics, regulating indoor climate, and promoting well-being.

Want to Help Keep Nature in the News?

Everything we accomplish happens because people like you are stepping forward and supporting GPGB’s focus on having conversations with the building professionals who can #BringNatureIndoors.

If the spirit moves you, please consider supporting our work by making a donation.