10 BEST AIR PURIFYING INDOOR PLANTS FOR BIOPHILIC DESIGN | Architalktural

10 BEST AIR PURIFYING INDOOR PLANTS FOR BIOPHILIC DESIGN

In our increasingly urbanized world, many of us find ourselves spending more time indoors than ever. Unfortunately, our built environments often lack the visual, tactile, and air-quality elements that inherently connect us to nature—elements we instinctively long for. This is where biophilic design comes into play. By integrating natural materials, ample daylight, scenic views, and lush greenery into our interiors, we can dramatically improve our well-being, lower stress levels, and enrich our surroundings. A highly effective way to achieve this transformation is through the use of indoor plants, which not only bring beauty and texture to our spaces but also purify the air we breathe, making our home or office a healthier haven.

OBJECTIVE

In this blog, we delve into ten exceptional air-purifying plants: the snake plant, spider plant, ZZ plant, pothos, peace lily, monstera, fern, English ivy, cactus, and aloe vera. Each of these plants not only adds visual appeal to your space but also plays a crucial role in improving indoor air quality. No matter your interior design style—be it minimalist, tropical, Scandinavian, or Bohemian—these plants can transform your home into a biophilic oasis, promoting a healthier and more vibrant indoor atmosphere. Embrace nature’s beauty and enhance your living environment with these remarkable plants!

Plant Descriptions

For each plant, I’ll include: key aesthetic/biophilic design contributions, the types of air pollutants they help mitigate, and care tips that support their optimal performance.

Snake Plant

1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria / Dracaena trifasciata)

• Aesthetic & Biophilic Value: Tall, upright, sword‑like leaves give strong vertical form; great for defining corners, lining hallways, or structuring a space. Its bold, architectural profile adds contrast in texture (with smoother leaves) and color (often variegated edges or bands). Works well in minimalistic designs as a sculptural element.

• Air Purification Benefits: Known from NASA’s Clean Air Study to remove toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, xylene, and trichloroethylene. It also continues to release oxygen at night (unlike many plants), which makes it good for bedrooms.

• Care: Very low maintenance. Tolerates low light, needs infrequent watering (soil should dry between waterings). Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Strong in neglect.

Spider Plant

2. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

• Aesthetic & Biophilic Value: Its arching, variegated leaves and cascading “spiderettes” (baby offshoots) offer movement, texture, and layers. Hanging baskets and shelves are good locations; its airy structure softens rigid geometry in interiors. Very forgiving plant that gives a lush, relaxed feel.

• Air Purification Benefits: Effective at removing formaldehyde, xylene, and carbon monoxide. Recognized in many surveys/NASA studies. Good at filtering indoor pollutants from furnishings, adhesives, and synthetic materials.

• Care: Prefers bright, indirect light but tolerates moderate shade. Likes moist but well‑draining soil; allow topsoil to dry a bit between waterings. Mist occasionally to reduce dust on the leaves, which helps with air filtering.

ZZ Plant

3. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

• Aesthetic & Biophilic Value: Glossy, dark green, waxy leaves on upright stems; low, sculptural silhouette. Offers high contrast in tone and sheen; works well as an accent piece or in low‑light parts of the house (since it tolerates shade). Its robustness embodies the “resilience” aspect of biophilic design—forms that endure and adapt.

• Air Purification Benefits: Helps remove VOCs such as benzene, toluene, and xylene. Though less is known compared to some of the classic NASA plants, multiple sources list it among effective air purifiers.

• Care: Very low maintenance. Needs bright indirect to moderate light but tolerates quite low light. Water sparingly; let soil dry between waterings (its rhizomes store water). Keep in well‑draining soil; avoid waterlogging.

Pothos

4. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum, “Golden Pothos,” etc.)

• Aesthetic & Biophilic Value: Trailing vines, heart‑shaped leaves often variegated (gold, cream, white, etc.). Excellent for adding soft curves, layering, draping, and green cascades from shelves or hanging planters. Its vines help visually connect the floor, middle, and ceiling levels in a room, supporting spatial biophilic layering.

• Air Purification Benefits: Known to absorb formaldehyde, benzene, and xylene. Very forgiving plant, often used in workplaces and homes for its air-cleaning qualities.

• Care: Thrives in bright, indirect light but tolerates lower light. Keep soil lightly moist, but do not overwater; let the top layer dry somewhat. Regular pruning of vines helps keep aesthetic shape and stimulates fuller growth.

Peace Lily

5. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum spp.)

• Aesthetic & Biophilic Value: Elegant white spathes (flowers) contrasting against glossy deep green leaves provide focal interest and a soothing, tranquil presence. Great in low to medium light, good for corners or areas that need a calming feature. Also adds softness through its curved flower and foliage forms.

• Air Purification Benefits: Removes pollutants like benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, and ammonia. Also reputed to help reduce mold spores in air and increase indoor humidity (beneficial in dry climates).

• Care: Prefers medium to low indirect light. Soil kept moist (but not waterlogged). Droops visibly when dry (which is a visual cue). Be cautious if there are pets, as parts are toxic if ingested.

Monstera

6. Monstera (Monstera deliciosa, etc.)

• Aesthetic & Biophilic Value: Large leaves with split or perforated forms create dramatic shadows and patterns of light through foliage, which is very biophilic. Their scale can give a tropical feel, help fill vertical space, and emphasize lush, nature‑like interiors. Provides a strong “leafy” presence.

• Air Purification Benefits: While Monstera is not always one of the headline plants in older NASA lists, more recent design/houseplant sources include Monstera among those that help improve indoor air quality (removal of VOCs, etc.). Also, its large leaf surface area helps in absorbing pollutants and dust.

• Care: Thrives in bright, indirect light. Needs well‑draining soil and regular watering (keeping soil slightly moist). Likes support (a stake or moss pole) for vertical growth if desired. Avoid direct harsh sun, which can scorch. Also,  dust leaves occasionally to keep stomata open.

Fern

7. Fern (e.g., Boston Fern Nephrolepis exaltata or other indoor fern species)

• Aesthetic & Biophilic Value: Feathery, delicate foliage adds softness, texture, and richness. Ferns evoke shade, moisture, and leafy forest understory ambience. Great for humid areas like bathrooms, kitchens; can be used in planters at various heights to create layered green zones.

• Air Purification Benefits: Known to remove formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene; also naturally raises humidity via transpiration, which can help skin and respiratory comfort, and reduce dust.

• Care: Prefer bright, indirect light; keep soil evenly moist but not soggy. High humidity helps; regular misting or use of pebble trays. Sensitive to dry air and over‑drying.

English Ivy

8. English Ivy (Hedera helix)

• Aesthetic & Biophilic Value: Trailing or climbing; can cover walls, be trained over trellises; its drape softens harsh lines, adds complexity, and layers. Several cultivars feature variegated leaves, adding visual interest. They can be used in baskets or as groundcover in large planters indoors.

• Air Purification Benefits: Good at removing formaldehyde and other VOCs; also helps reduce airborne fecal particles/mold in some studies—useful for allergy relief.

• Care: Prefers medium to bright indirect light. Keep soil moderately moist; tolerates some dryness but not extended drought. Be mindful that ivy can be toxic if ingested and may require pruning to control spread.

Cactus

9. Cactus (Various succulents/cactus species)

• Aesthetic & Biophilic Value: Strong sculptural forms, variety of shapes—from columnar to round, ribbed, or spiky—which can serve as focal points or contrast in texture. Minimalist and drought‑tolerant, often in modern or desert aesthetic‑inspired interiors. Great for small spaces or for people with less time for maintenance.

• Air Purification Benefits: While cacti are not always the most prominent in VOC‑removing plant lists compared to some others, succulents in general help with absorbing CO₂, releasing oxygen, and reducing some pollutants; they also help stabilize humidity and may help trap dust or particles on their surfaces. Some sources list “succulents and cacti” among the overall category of air purifiers.

• Care: Require bright light; soil must be well‑draining; water infrequently (allow soil to dry between waterings). Overwatering is the most common cause of failure. Use containers with drainage.

Aloe Vera

10. Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis / related species)

• Aesthetic & Biophilic Value: Succulent form, fleshy leaves with interesting colors and textures (often a bit glossier, occasionally with pale spotting, and with architectural symmetry). Has a clean, modern yet natural feel. Also, it  is multi‑functional—gel inside has soothing properties. Good for windowsills, kitchens, bathrooms—places where its practical uses can be part of its appeal.

• Air Purification Benefits: Identified in studies/lists as helping to remove formaldehyde and benzene. It can also contribute to oxygen production, though not especially at night (unlike the snake plant). Also serves as a low‑maintenance purifier.

• Care: Needs bright, indirect to direct light; minimal watering; well‑draining succulent or cactus mix. Allow the soil to dry out substantially between watering to avoid root rot. Occasional dusting.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Introducing air-purifying plants into your interior spaces does more than enhance visual appeal—it actively promotes essential aspects of biophilic design. These elements foster a connection with nature, provide sensory richness through diverse textures, forms, and colors, soften harsh edges, and significantly improve air quality. Such plants not only elevate the aesthetics of your space with their vibrant greenery and structure but also play a crucial role in reducing harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs), mold spores, and other indoor pollutants. Embrace the power of nature indoors for a healthier and more inviting environment!

When selecting and placing plants, consider the following to maximize both design and purification benefits:

• Distribute greenery throughout the room (not just in one corner) to increase surface area for filtering and to support visual layering.

• Match plant choices to the light, humidity, and care capacity you have—inappropriate conditions reduce both aesthetic vibrancy and purification efficacy.

• Use plants as accents or focal points: large-leaf plants like monstera, upright ones like snake plant, trailing ones like pothos or ivy, and ones with flowers like peace lily.

• Maintain them well: clean leaves (dust blocks stomata), water correctly, avoid overcrowding, and replace if plants get unhealthy.

Although one or two houseplants may not fully replace the need for ventilation or mechanical air filtration in polluted environments, integrating them with proper airflow, eliminating sources of indoor toxins (like certain paints and cleaning agents), and using a variety of plants can greatly enhance the quality of your indoor environment. Investing in plants is a simple, effective way to breathe easier and create a healthier home.

In short, by weaving in these ten plants, you can design interiors that feel alive, calming, and healthier—a hallmark of biophilic design in practice.

Ar J CASTANEDA

Architect, Sustainable Architecture

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CITATIONS:

https://www.almanac.com/10-indoor-plants-clean-air

https://www.mdessmarket.com/blog/plants-that-clean-the-air

https://houseplant101.com/blog/air-purifying-plants/

https://airpurityguide.com/what-plants-are-good-for-air-purification/

https://aquascape.ae/product/zamioculcas-zamiifolia-air-purifier-plant/

https://homebagh.com/blogs/news/top-air-purifying-indoor-plants-for-a-healthier-home

https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/best-indoor-plants

PHOTO ATTRIBUTIONS

001 Snake Plant pexels-rosana-solis-385478-3718448

002 Spider Plant pexels-fotios-photos-4753285

003 Raven ZZ Plant pexels-valeriiamiller-8525199

004 Pothos pexels-rdne-8580784

005 Peace Lily pexels-alinaskazka-14939905

006 Monstera pexels-avonnephoto-6597437

007 Fern pexels-hellokellybrito-322342

008 English Ivy pexels-plantsandgraphics-7365049

009 Cactus pexels-scottwebb-7167634

010 Aloe Vera pexels-jvdm-1581101

011 Cover Photo pexels-huy-phan-316220-3076899

7 BEST ECO-FRIENDLY ALTERNATIVES IN KITCHEN ESSENTIALS, useful tips towards sustainable living | Architalktural

7 BEST ECO-FRIENDLY ALTERNATIVES IN KITCHEN ESSENTIALS, useful tips towards sustainable living

The center of any house is the kitchen. It's where we gather to feed ourselves and our families, but it also has the potential to negatively affect our ecosystem. Many people are seeking methods to lessen their impact on the environment as climate change continues to influence our lives—beginning with eco-friendly cooking in the kitchen!

The 21st-century kitchen is full of all kinds of great stuff for making incredible meals, but all that great stuff is a lot of…stuff, and it’s important to consider the impact certain kitchen items have on the earth. There are lots of ways to make a kitchen product more eco-friendly, whether that’s by designing a reusable version of a disposable item, getting rid of hazardous materials, or applying a more efficient manufacturing method. We have searched for several eco-friendly kitchen products and materials and chose the best seven switches we could make to create a more sustainable and eco-friendly kitchen.

1. SWITCH FROM PAPER TOWELS TO REUSABLE KITCHEN CLOTH

By switching out single-use paper towels with reusable cloths, you can start an eco-friendly kitchen makeover in one of the most straightforward and cheap ways possible. One of the best products of this kind if you ever decided to find one are those that are created from bleached or unbleached cotton, which is soft and absorbent.

Another type of similar kind is the Swedish dishcloths, which were created by a Swedish engineer in 1949 and are "superabsorbent." They are constructed of "100% naturally biodegradable cellulose or a combination of wood pulp and renewable cotton," dry rapidly, and can be washed. Users treat them exactly the same way as paper towels and say they reduced the amount of paper towels by at least 80%.

2. SWITCH FROM PAPER COFFEE FILTERS TO STAINLESS STEEL COFFEE MESH

You might want to consider strategies to reduce your use of paper coffee filters in addition to reducing the number of single-use to-go coffee cups. Some coffee machines are made as an alternative to conventional methods of brewing. The outcome is akin to paper filters, but without the waste, adding that the stainless steel mesh is quite fine (keeping the grinds out).

Or you might want to purchase a plunging type coffee brewing device called a coffee presser or French press. Anything goes as long as your purpose is to eliminate paper filters. Simple things like these are great ways coffee lovers can show their courage as invincible earth heroes.

3. SWITCH FROM PLASTIC TO BAMBOO COOKING UTENSILS

You want to have the best tools for the task whether you're cooking for just yourself or the entire family. You may be unaware of the distinction between environmentally friendly kitchenware and whatever is currently on sale, but it's still worthwhile to learn more. Modern plastics may not only be inferior to bamboo in terms of performance but also impose harm on our internal health. Additionally, by making the transition, you're picking a better alternative for your family as well as the environment. And because we all call this place home, we may as well look after it to ensure the highest quality of life.

The following are the top advantages of bamboo as an eco-friendly material:

A. By using bamboo as a material, uncertified timber that may cause deforestation can be avoided;

B. Bamboo is simple to grow, and there are vast sources available;

C. These utensils may be made from a single mature bamboo piece to a thousand times; and

D. From being biodegradable, ethically sourced, tree-free, plastic-free, and reusable, this product's sustainability is quite commendable.

I personally use a bamboo kitchen spatula when cooking. The picture above shows my spatula on a bamboo cutting board. Cutting boards made of bamboo, when properly cared for, not only appear more elegant when displayed on a kitchen counter than plastic ones, but they also last a lot longer. You could make this transition as simple as possible for you. You could do it one by one which does not hurt your budget. After you have completed a set of bamboo utensils, we are certain that your family and the environment will thank you.

4. SWITCH FROM ALUMINUM NON-STICK COOKWARE TO NON-TOXIC CERAMIC POTS

Globally, the aluminum sector releases millions of tons of greenhouse gases each year, according to experts, which is, to put it simply, a massive no-no for Mother Nature. Choose the multipurpose ceramic-coated cookware the next time you need to replace your pots and pans since they are devoid of harmful chemicals, poisonous metals, and nanoparticles. Ceramic clay pots are also great alternatives, if you may choose so.

5. SWITCH FROM PLASTIC TO GLASS FOOD CONTAINERS

Glass food storage containers not only offer safer food storage, but also a great view of what is within. Glass Ball jars can keep anything from seeds, flours, and nuts to soups, stews, and fresh berries, and they are affordable (can be bought by the dozen). They are also simple to clean. When using glass containers for frozen storage, make sure to choose freezer-safe models with wide mouths that are simple to remove for warming and provide enough space at the top for any liquids to expand.

6. SWITCH FROM SINGLE-USE PLASTIC BAGS TO ECO BAGS FOR YOUR PRODUCE

There's a fair probability that a large portion of the plastic you believe you could be using comes from your monthly trip to the grocery store. Purchasing large quantities of fruits, vegetables, and other food typically requires ripping off several plastic bags on each trip, which can be harmful to the environment. Reusable produce bags, however, provide a simple and practical replacement for plastic ones if you're searching for a more environmentally friendly, long-lasting option. As far as we can, we can only use environmentally friendly bags and try to lessen environmental damage. In other words, eco-friendly bags are those made from a range of ecologically friendly materials including cotton, hemp, non-woven, RPET, biodegradable bioplastics, and recyclable paper. They are also generally more earth-friendly and emit less pollutants.

7. SWITCH FROM TRASH CAN TO COMPOST BIN (FOR FOOD SCRAPS ONLY)

Food scraps and other waste should be disposed of in a kitchen-top compost bin rather than the trash can, where they will decompose and leave your kitchen smelling bad. When the bin is full, dump it in your backyard compost pile (or, if permitted where you live, in your yard waste receptacle) and use it to supplement your vegetable garden!

FINAL THOUGHTS

Using eco-friendly kitchen supplies and utensils is unquestionably preferable to using single-use plastic ones. They have less waste, are more environmentally friendly, and are more sustainable. And we really hope that this post gives you more than enough options for a greener kitchen. All have already done so much harm to our world, therefore we need to start taking action as soon as we can if we want to save it for future generations. You are already making a difference in little ways by picking eco-friendly products over the standard plastic ones when you go shopping. And if we can start with ourselves, we'll be able to motivate other people to do the same.

Joey Castaneda

Architect

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KITCHEN INTERIOR DESIGN TRENDS FOR 2025 | Architalktural

KITCHEN INTERIOR DESIGN TRENDS FOR 2025

"Nothing is more important than ever to feel relaxed at home after a long day at work and be connected in the kitchen. That feeling would always give us the urge to think about placing our kitchen at the top of the list, whenever we plan for any upgrade or renovation in the house. Yet given the constant introduction of new equipment, design concepts, and finishes, you might be wondering which kitchen design trends will endure. So, what's worth investing in? And what are the items should you discard?" - Joey Castaneda, Architect

OBJECTIVE

My involvement in food manufacturing projects earlier in my architectural career motivated me to compile these kitchen design trends. Aside from the design of huge food processing plants, I was also involved in the design of model kitchens for food outlets located in some shopping malls and other commercial establishments to promote a food based franchise business.

In my observation, the momentum started by recent trends, which included a focus on storage, accents with a natural theme, and modernized technology in fixtures, appliances, and lighting, is continuing up to last year. The simple luxury of organic style is complemented by recent kitchen designs, while improved utility is the primary objective of updates and renovations. With these seven kitchen design trends, you can make your kitchen function the way you want it to while also adding flair and substance that will last for years.

Here are seven kitchen design trends you may adapt for your homes this year:

1. Smart Kitchen

Appliances are becoming smarter nowadays. Technology advancements are no longer just for sound systems and media rooms; they are also making significant strides in the kitchen. The integrated smart-technology alternatives and systems that support end users' lifestyles have been revolutionary and appear to develop daily. Today, you may find technology incorporated into the majority of kitchen appliances and equipment. Same thing also applies with kitchen components from basic touch-closing cabinets to smart faucets that can be operated by your smart phones. The luxury kitchen design trend is truly moving toward smart kitchens. Experts point out that most clients are spending more time at home; they want their kitchens to simplify their day-to-day activities. You might be worrying this option is expensive and belongs to the elites. The good news is that, not anymore. As technology advances, older versions are still in the market and eventually become more affordable. Keep searching and you will find one that might suit your budget.

Another related factor is the energy efficiency of the equipment. Due to the increasing energy cost nowadays, this matter has been given the most attention whenever homeowners plan to do kitchen makeovers or extensions. However, this usually falls under the functional category, rather than aesthetical. Moreover, kitchen equipment manufacturers nowadays go with the design trend too, and even fashionable to the extent of blending, if not exactly matching, with specific color themes.

Just like automobiles, kitchen appliances nowadays are getting eco-friendly. But further than that, buyers nowadays are considering more factors such as ESG or Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance. This goes along with the Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs. These must be new to your ears, but I believe there are some few enthusiasts who are already aware and conscious about these factors when buying products. Nevertheless, I am not an energy person, though I have concern with environment, but these are not my expertise, so I would not go any deeper into the subject matter. My main goal is to provide you with some useful design pointers, hoping the items I have compiled would somehow bring about valuable thoughts on your decision making whenever you think about a kitchen make-over or incorporating some of them, if not all, in building your new homes. Well, you may want to apply these ideas in other parts of the house too. Why not?

2. Natural Wood Tones

There is no doubt that natural wood is still a material of choice for most clients and home experts. Wood helps to provide organic vibes and natural accent to the kitchen by connecting it to the outside environment. However, the trend does not actually allow the material to dominate the arena. To maintain a contemporary touch, wooden surfaces blend along with granite working countertops.

3. Glass Cabinet Doors

We just could not hide the fact that we always lusted for the elegance of glass in every part of the house, office or building facades. Have you noticed lately that not only the dining or terraces are equipped with glass doors? Wooden or plain kitchen cabinets nowadays are being combined with a couple of glass doors, mostly frosted type, regardless of function, whether decorative or storage.

4. Mirror Splash Backs

My earlier career dictates the now called traditional design trend when we used to specify the same materials for the countertop and the wall. However, you yourselves would notice some new kitchens today with separate material for the horizontal and vertical surface. And to take note, glasses or mirrors are now the higher end choice for the wall which adds elegance and extended kitchen appearance. To add a few, it also adds extra mirror function for the end user, some would enjoy such ambiance while working in the kitchen, or simply just pouring out drink or having a quick snack. Of course, this type of idea should be categorized into the personalized option. They still could go for other materials or colors of their choice, depending on their personality, as long as it is compatible without compromising designer’s recommendations. Some would consider the cost of the material, which is somewhat practical for both sides.

5. Bold Lighting

Kitchens nowadays are drastically stealing the entertainment limelight at home and becoming an instant rock star, a title traditionally owned by the living or dining rooms. Of course, in every entertainment event, the star of the show always earns the brightest and most sophisticated lighting. That is why from the dim lighting trend during my younger days, pendant lighting is the best choice today.                                                                                                                                                                 

This revolution was brought about by the recent lifestyle trend which turns cooking as a good way to entertain guests, where homeowners are able to show-off their talents, rather than sitting down in the living room watching TV. Of course, the role of the designers is to adjust with such lifestyle change in order to stay in tune. To create interest, interior designers usually play with the size of the lighting fixtures, up to the extent of recommending industrial-style options, that breaks up the lines and create vibrant silhouettes. This works well with clients who don’t just think about a facelift, but also considering a slight expansion of the kitchen area.

6. Stand out Taps

Another design trend that is becoming more popular these days is the use of stand-out taps. The increasing demand makes manufacturers produce a selection of finishes such as silver, brass and the standard chrome. But the black and white ones are eventually becoming the mainstream in the market. New kitchens without stand out taps couldn’t really represent the title “new kitchen” at all. So whether you do the purchasing yourself or your contractor does it for you, make sure you add one in your shopping cart. You may want to consider this model.

7. Kitchen Plants

Another way of bringing the outside in is putting plants on the vacant spaces or shelves in kitchens, dining and even the living area. Besides filtering the air naturally and enhancing our mood, house plants are not just a trend considering its long-lasting popularity. Not to mention its never-ending blend with wooden finishes or furniture pieces.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Considering all the above-mentioned design trends, there is one characteristic of modern kitchen that applies to all. It's none other than a "minimalist kitchen." Our cover photo above and the picture below represent as a good examples.

Planning a renovation or not, I would greatly advise that you always love your kitchen. Remember that this is a space that brings the whole family together and at the same time will help you entertain guests. If ever you want to push through with the plan, whether you decide to go with the trend or just your heart, have fun with it. Make sure it addresses your needs, and keep in mind that even though remodeling process might be so tedious and occasionally exhausting, it will be worth it in the end.

Joey Castaneda

Architect/Artist

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