How to Create Livable Outdoor Spaces with Artificial Greenery

Tips
How to Create Livable Outdoor Spaces with Artificial Greenery

Artificial plants can be the secret weapon for your outdoor space, especially if you know how to use them.

While many think that designing outdoor spaces that are inviting, beautiful, stress-free, and low-maintenance is easy to do with a couple of online design guides, we’re here to tell you that’s not the case.

Without adding unnecessary maintenance, it’s challenging to style a backyard or commercial outdoor space that truly speaks to you and beckons people to spend time there.

But that doesn’t mean there’s no way to do it - you just need to know how.

And in this blog, we’re going to show you 4 different ways to create a livable outdoor space without spending hours, all by using artificial plants.

Want to learn more?

Let’s dig in.

4 Ways to Design a Livable Outdoor Space With Fake Plants

Artificial vertical gardens and fake plants aren’t a trend.

On the contrary, since they usually last longer than real plants, you won’t have to replace them or buy new ones every season.

That said, you can make a smart choice from the start and save yourself headaches down the road. Tired corners, concrete patios, and unused balconies can become your favorite spaces with just a little creativity.

Let’s talk about some of the most-loved styling ideas from real customers and our showroom experts to help you build the perfect outdoor space:

  1. Create a tropical oasis

Modern backyard with a narrow swimming pool surrounded by glass fencing and lush green artificial hedge walls

When considering the atmosphere of an al fresco space, many of our clients opt to evoke the tropics. If you’re also dreaming of a poolside paradise or a backyard retreat, we recommend big, dramatic foliage and layered artificial greenery that enriches the space.

Usually, this means palms swaying in the breeze, artificial hanging plants softening pergolas, and sun lounges surrounded by biophilic design. This particular look suits various alfresco entertaining areas, spas, and wellness corners that make relaxation a priority.

Top plants to create this look include:

Styling tips for a tropical alfresco area:

  • Layer the tall artificial plants behind seating for more depth to the space

  • Use artificial hanging garlands to soften beams or vertical structures

  • Keep faux greenery clear of fire pits and aim for a 9-10ft buffer

  1. Implement a classic look

Indoor vertical garden installation above a restaurant entrance, featuring a lush mix of hanging artificial greenery and plants

A classic style is all about symmetry, form, and sophistication - all aspects a well-chosen artificial green wall can contribute to. These traditional and formal spaces are inspired by European courtyards and classic estates, which makes them ideal for heritage homes, refined outdoor dining areas, or upscale restaurant patios.

If you want a formal outdoor dining area fit for the likes of Marie Antoinette, you’ll need artificial trimmed topiary, manicured hedges, and muted, deep green tones. By combining these, you can get a traditional look that adds to the ordered atmosphere and one that feels both luxurious and welcoming.

Top plants to create a classic look include:

Styling tips for a traditional outdoor space:

  • Frame entryways with symmetrical planters

  • Use faux hedges to make “outdoor rooms” or guide foot traffic

  • Add succulents or small potted plants to tabletops and vanities

  1. Make a cozy shelter

Installing artificial hedge wall in a backyard of a client

Even if you’re gearing up for the warmer season, you need to think about your outdoor space in the colder months, as well. In the winter, alfresco areas can still be a cozy space with the right layout, styling, and forethought.

A winter alfresco space usually boasts moody furniture tones with subtle, warming natural elements to soften the hard edges. On milder winter evenings, you can still use your backyard for intimate gatherings by a fire pit lit by lighting and decorated with textural artificial greenery accents that don’t freeze over or wilt.

The best faux plants for an outdoor space in cold weather include:

Styling tips for winter outdoor spaces:

  • Less is more in winter, so don’t overdo the plants

  • Place the artificial plants around the seating to emphasize it, not overshadow it

  • Use artificial vertical garden panels as a backdrop for the space

  1. Add charm to novelty

Artificial hedge wall in yard with poolside

Brand-new homes often come with blank-slate outdoor areas. While this is an exciting feat, it can be a gut-punch to see all that bare concrete, sharp lines, and minimal (or non-existent) landscaping. Instead of digging up the whole space to plant a row of plants and wait months for them to grow, start with artificial plants for a similar appearance.

We recommend using clean planter boxes, privacy screens, and small pops of artificial foliage. Your goal should be to turn this bare space into an extension of your home, not an add-on.

Top faux plants to bring warmth to a new building include:

  • Artificial buxus hedges

  • Faux ficus hedges

  • Monstera and philodendron

  • Artificial yucca (black or green varieties for contrast)

Styling tips for new buildings that need warmth:

Finishing Thoughts

You don’t need high-maintenance decor elements to create a livable outdoor space suited for alfresco dining. With the wide variety of low-maintenance artificial plants available today, you can make a beautiful, structured, and relaxed backyard in just a day.

If you’re ready to make the most of your space, check out our curated collection of artificial green walls and plants to bring life to all your outdoor corners. Our team offers free consultations and can help you design your space exactly how you like it. Plus, we’re only a click away.

And if you don’t want to leap yet, follow us on social media for weekly inspiration, tutorials, and tips.

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