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Plants & Architecture

When we think of architecture, we usually think of stone, steel, concrete and glass. But plants have always played an important role.

For centuries, man has used natural resources, not just to build, but as inspiration for design.

Oak, for instance, is not only beautiful to look at, but is also extremely durable. Bamboo is widely used as a building material throughout Asia because it has a tensile strength greater than steel.

Plants have also helped shape architectural design. Acanthus leaves are often to be seen on the capitals of Corinthian columns in Greek architecture, a tradition which has been carried on through neo-classical designs. In fact, flowers and leaves are often used as a motif to soften the lines of stone buildings.

But plants can have other versatile uses. The sword-shaped leaves of the agave plant yield fibres (called sisal) that were used historically to make ropes to hold scaffolding together. Coconut fibre (called coir) is an environmentally friendly way of soundproofing and insulating.

See the top 10 plants that we think have made the biggest difference to this category.