When designing a commercial space, whether it’s a restaurant, office, hotel, or retail store, greenery can make a huge difference. Plants create a welcoming atmosphere, improve aesthetics, and enhance customer experiences. But when it comes to choosing between real plants and artificial plants, which is the better option for commercial use?
In this guide, we’ll explore the pros and cons of both artificial and real plants to help you make the best decision for your business.
The Benefits of Real Plants in Commercial Spaces
✅ 1. Natural Beauty & Freshness
Real plants bring a vibrant, living feel to a space. Their natural movement, colour changes, and occasional blooming make them visually dynamic.
✅ 2. Air Purification
Many real plants, such as peace lilies, snake plants, and spider plants, help to filter toxins and improve air quality, benefiting employees and customers alike.
✅ 3. Wellbeing & Productivity
Studies show that greenery in offices and workspaces helps to reduce stress, increase focus, and boost employee productivity.
✅ 4. Biophilic Design Trends
With sustainability and wellness at the forefront of design trends, real plants fit perfectly into the growing biophilic movement, which integrates nature into modern spaces.
❌ Challenges of Real Plants
Maintenance Costs – Real plants require regular watering, pruning, and feeding, which means hiring professional plant care or assigning staff to look after them.
Lighting Conditions – Not all commercial spaces have sufficient natural light, making it difficult for plants to thrive.
Allergies & Pests – Some customers and employees may be allergic to pollen or certain plants, and real plants can attract insects.
The Benefits of Artificial Plants in Commercial Spaces
✅ 1. Low Maintenance & Cost-Effective
Artificial plants require zero watering, pruning, or fertilizing, making them ideal for busy commercial settings where maintenance is difficult.
✅ 2. Always Look Perfect
Unlike real plants, which can wilt or die, artificial plants remain pristine all year round, ensuring your commercial space always looks well-kept and professional.
✅ 3. Suitable for Any Environment
No matter the lighting, humidity, or temperature, artificial plants will thrive without requiring special conditions.
✅ 4. No Pests or Allergies
Artificial plants don’t attract bugs or trigger allergies, making them a safe choice for spaces where hygiene is important, such as restaurants, hotels, and healthcare facilities.
✅ 5. Highly Customizable
Available in any shape, size, or style, artificial plants can be designed to fit any aesthetic or branding requirements.
❌ Challenges of Artificial Plants
No Air Purification – Unlike real plants, artificial ones don’t help improve air quality.
Lower Sustainability – Many artificial plants are made from plastic, which may not align with eco-conscious brand values.
Initial Investment – High-quality artificial plants can be expensive upfront, though they save money on maintenance over time.
Best Use Cases for Artificial vs. Real Plants in Commercial Spaces
Business Type | Best Choice | Why? |
Restaurants & Cafés | ✅ Artificial & Real | Real plants add freshness, but artificial ones work well for low-light areas and food safety. |
Offices & Workspaces | ✅ Real Plants | Live plants boost productivity and air quality, benefiting employees. |
Retail Stores | ✅ Artificial Plants | Low-maintenance greenery ensures a perfect display year-round. |
Hotels & Hospitality | ✅ Artificial & Real | Use real plants in lobbies for impact, and artificial ones in low-light hallways and bathrooms. |
Healthcare & Clinics | ✅ Artificial Plants | Reduces allergens and bacteria risks while creating a calming environment. |
Shopping Centres & Malls | ✅ Artificial Plants | Ideal for large spaces with minimal upkeep requirements. |
Outdoor Commercial Spaces | ✅ Artificial & Real | Real plants add authenticity, while UV-resistant artificial plants maintain year-round greenery. |
Hybrid Approach: The Best of Both Worlds
Many commercial businesses now combine both artificial and real plants to balance aesthetics, cost, and practicality.
Use real plants where natural light and maintenance support are available.
Place artificial plants in difficult-to-maintain spots such as dark corners, high shelves, or busy customer areas.
Mix artificial plants with real greenery for a seamless and natural look.
Final Thoughts: Which Should You Choose?
If you’re looking for low-maintenance, always-perfect greenery, artificial plants are the best choice for most commercial settings. However, if you want air-purifying, mood-boosting plants, real plants are worth the investment in areas where they can thrive.
🌿 Considering artificial plants for your commercial space? Contact us to discuss bespoke metal planters with pre-installed artificial plants.