Nature In The News

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

Journal of Biophilic Design Issue 12

Credits: Journal of Biophilic Design Issue 12

Retail edition of the Journal of Biophilic Design is jam packed full of inspiring ideas for creating shops, retail spaces, shopping centres, and boutique places that are beautifully biophilic while also supporting trade and enhanced places to be. Read articles from Oliver Heath, Bill Browning, BIID, Space Invader, Mass Timber Building, Stephen Choi, Lyn Falk, Dr Sally Augustin, Mathew Page, Andrea Harman, Ian Drummond, Maria Fenn, and more! Over 170 pages of visuals, case studies, ideas, discussion, research and more!

Metropolis Deep Green Biophilia Episode

Credits: Metropolis Magazine, Deep Green Podcast

Biophilic design might be trending on social media, but it’s far more than an aesthetic—it’s a transformative approach to creating spaces that make us happier, calmer, and healthier. In this episode of Deep Green: Deep Cut, METROPOLIS editor in chief Avinash Rajagopal dives into the science and philosophy behind biophilic design with Bill Browning, founder of Terrapin Bright Green, and Catie Ryan, director of projects at the firm. These leading voices in biophilic design share their insights on the profound impact of creating spaces that connect us to nature.

As Terrapin Bright Green marks the 10th anniversary of its 14 Patterns of Biophilic Design, Browning and Ryan reflect on how their research has shaped the field, including the introduction of a new pattern: “Awe.” They share how these principles deliver measurable outcomes in projects like the reimagined Portland International Airport, where stress-filled spaces became calming, passenger-friendly environments under the terminal’s nine-acre roof. Tune in to learn how biophilic strategies—from nature-inspired fractals to immersive natural elements—are improving well-being, reducing stress, and redefining the built environment.

International Plantscape Awards

Celebrating Excellence at the 2025 International Plantscape Awards

The International Plantscape Awards Gala, held on January 23, 2025, at the Hilton Marina in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, was a grand celebration of creativity and innovation in the interior plantscaping industry. Hosted during the Tropical Plant International Expo (TPIE), the event recognized the best in biophilic design, installation, and industry leadership.

Green Plants for Green Buildings proudly celebrates the remarkable achievements of supporters and other industry leading companies. These accolades underscore the dedication and innovation of GPGB’s supporters in advancing excellence in interior plantscaping.

The gala also honored Joe Cialonne Sr. with the prestigious 2025 Philanthropic Leadership Award for his outstanding service and contributions to the plantscaping industry.

Another highlight was the induction of Larry Pliska, founder of Planterra, into the International Plantscape Hall of Fame—the industry’s most esteemed lifetime achievement award.

The International Plantscape Awards program is open to industry professionals worldwide, with winners selected based on innovation, creativity, and execution. For a full list of winners and highlights from this year’s event, visit I-PlantsMagazine.

GPGB at TPIE25

The Tropical Plant International Expo (TPIE) 2025, held from January 22-24 at the Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, was a vibrant gathering of industry professionals, showcasing the latest trends in foliage, floral, and tropical plants. Green Plants for Green Buildings (GPGB) played a pivotal role in this year’s expo, offering a range of educational and interactive sessions that highlighted the integration of biophilic design and sustainability in modern interiors.

GPGB Booth: A Hub of Innovation

At the heart of the expo, the GPGB booth served as a central point for attendees to explore the benefits of incorporating green plants into building designs. Visitors engaged with experts to learn about the latest research and applications of biophilic principles, discovering how greenery can enhance indoor environments by improving air quality, boosting occupant well-being, and promoting energy efficiency.

Registered Trainer Seminar: Empowering Advocates

On January 23, from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m., GPGB hosted a complimentary Registered Trainer Seminar. This session aimed to educate and empower participants to become advocates for biophilic design through GPGB’s Registered Trainer Program.Trainers receive comprehensive training materials, including guides, presentations, and white papers, equipping them to deliver credentialed continuing education units to architects, designers, and building professionals.

Board Member Panel on Sustainability: Insights and Strategies

A highlight of the expo was the Panel on Sustainability, where GPGB leaders, Jan Goodman and Mike Senneff, joined other leading experts to discuss innovative strategies for integrating sustainable practices into interior landscapes. The panel addressed topics such as the selection of eco-friendly plant species, sustainable sourcing, and the role of interior plantscapes in achieving green building certifications.

National Interiorscape Network Session: Building Connections

The National Interiorscape Network session provided a platform for professionals in the interiorscape industry to connect, share best practices, and explore collaborative opportunities. GPGB leaders joined discussions on current challenges and emerging trends, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose among participants.

National Horticulture Foundation: Supporting Research and Education

Throughout the expo, GPGB highlighted its collaboration with the National Horticulture Foundation to support research and educational initiatives that advance the horticulture industry. Attendees learned about ongoing projects and how they could contribute to the foundation’s mission of promoting the benefits of plants in built environments.

Transforming Interiorscape Projects with Biophilic Design.

In a compelling presentation, GPGB Board Director, Rebecca Bullene of Greenery NYC delved into the transformative potential of biophilic design in interiorscape projects. The session showcased case studies demonstrating how the thoughtful integration of natural elements can revitalize indoor spaces, enhance aesthetic appeal, and promote occupant well-being.

GPGB’s active participation in TPIE 2025 underscored its commitment to advancing the integration of green plants in building design. Through educational seminars, panel discussions, and collaborative sessions, GPGB continues to lead the conversation on sustainability and biophilic design in the interiorscape industry.

Biophilic Leadership Summit

The 7th Annual Biophilic Leadership Summit is scheduled for March 30 to April 1, 2025, at The Inn at Serenbe in Chattahoochee Hills, Georgia. This unique multi-day conference is dedicated exclusively to biophilic projects, research, and principles, bringing together top industry thought leaders in an intimate natural setting to network, build partnerships, and learn from each other.

The 2025 summit will focus on “Biophilic Wellness,” featuring keynote speakers such as Susie Ellis, Chair and CEO of the Global Wellness Institute and Global Wellness Summit; Tye Farrow, Senior Partner at Farrow Partners Architects; and Aruni Bhatnagar, PhD, Smith and Lucille Gibson Professor of Medicine at the University of Louisville. The agenda includes presentations on regenerative architecture, healthy cities, and the economics of biophilic wellness, among other topics.

Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in engaging presentations, restorative moments in nature, and networking sessions designed to foster collaboration among biophilic leaders. The summit is hosted by The Biophilic Institute, Biophilic Cities, and Serenbe.

BOMA Conference Scholarship Opportunity

BOMA International has an opportunity for you! Thanks to the BOMA Foundation’s J. Michael Coleman Scholarship, you can save big on advancing your career. Join us in Boston from June 28 – July 1 where there are thousands of CRE professionals and vendors ready to help you take that next step in your career! Up to 10 recipients will be chosen to receive:

  • Complimentary conference registration
  • $1000 to be used towards travel and other conference related expenses
  • A unique track of education sessions and networking events geared towards emerging professionals

Volunteers Wanted for Committees and Board of Directors

GPGB depends on the work of volunteers to carry out our strategic initiatives and fulfill our mission. Serving on a committee or as a GPGB board member is a rewarding experience and an opportunity for personal and professional growth. If you can make a minimum two-year commitment, the industry needs people like YOU!

We are actively looking for committee members who are passionate about biophilia!

Volunteering with GPGB is about becoming part of a movement that integrates nature into our everyday spaces for better health, productivity, and sustainability. With exclusive tools, education, and networking opportunities, GPGB helps you stay ahead in the evolving A+D landscape and opens doors for both professional and personal growth.

Elevate your career and your impact—volunteer with GPGB today!

Committees include:
  • Marketing & Communications
  • Supporter Development
  • Education & Professional Development
All are driven by our Strategic Plan.

Thank You to Our Supporters!

GPGB is making a difference and it’s all thanks to our valued supporters. Our supporter’s participation and contribution is greatly appreciated not only by us, but by everyone in the industry.

Thank you for continuing to add your voice  to the hundreds of other industry professionals committed to integrating plants into our built environments. We appreciate your understanding and willingness to “Level-Up” this year!

Continued Supporter Call To Action: Please continue to add your reels, shorts, stories, and all other 15-30 second videos related to biophilia here in order to be featured on GPGB social media. 

Biophilic Gallery

Credit: Blondie’s Treehouse

The Refinery at Domino, a newly constructed 15-story glass office building set within the historic brick façade of the former factory, blending the advantages of new construction with the charm of a historic landmark building. The innovative design positions the glass and steel structure 15 feet behind the historic masonry, allowing for floor-to-ceiling operable windows that maximize natural light and showcase stunning views of a vertical garden on the brick façade. Rising seven stories above the ground floor, a remarkable feature of The Refinery is its omnipresent vertical landscape of exterior grade replica plants and vines that is integrated into the building’s support I-beams, enhancing the area between the glass curtain and masonry walls into a vibrant eye-catching tapestry.

Credits: SemperGreenUSA

Despite its grandeur, this lobby lacked a cozy ambiance suitable for business discussions or casual meetings among colleagues.

Covering nearly 1,000 square feet, the SemperGreenwalls add beauty and serve a functional purpose by absorbing ambient noise, contributing to a peaceful atmosphere. Moreover, research indicates that such green elements positively impact individuals’ mental wellness.

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.