Smart Design: Using Artificial Greenery to Improve Security, Shade & Privacy Outdoors

May 6th 2025

Smart Design: Using Artificial Greenery to Improve Security, Shade & Privacy Outdoors

Store front with artificial plant walls

In the world of commercial design, green elements are no longer just decorative—they serve a purpose. Artificial Plants Unlimited is at the forefront of this evolution, offering innovative faux plant solutions that elevate commercial spaces while solving practical challenges. From faux green walls to artificial hedges and privacy screens, our products go beyond aesthetics to deliver durability, security, and long-term performance in exterior applications.

 Decorative UV foliage above a tunnel

Faux Green Walls & Hedges: More Than a Pretty Face

While artificial greenery is often chosen for its beauty and low-maintenance appeal, it also plays an increasingly important role in controlling access, defining boundaries, and reducing visual clutter. Faux green walls and hedges can deter graffiti by reducing blank wall space, which vandals typically seek out. The natural textures of artificial foliage disrupt the visual monotony that attracts tagging, while their durable construction withstands the elements and frequent contact without fading or damage.

These artificial systems are ideal for use on exterior walls, fencing, railings, or as infill panels between existing structures. By integrating greenery into the design, commercial property managers and designers can create a visually appealing barrier that doubles as a deterrent to vandalism.

Green hedges on a second floor with a pool down below

Security & Privacy Without the Upkeep

Artificial privacy screens and hedges from Artificial Plants Unlimited provide instant coverage with no waiting period for growth. This is especially useful in high-traffic commercial areas like restaurant patios, storefronts, resorts, and mixed-use developments where discretion and guest comfort are priorities.

Unlike natural hedges, which require time, water, and maintenance to mature, our faux products offer full privacy from day one. Additionally, their UV-rated materials ensure a vibrant, lush appearance even in harsh sunlight—perfect for exterior columns, wall systems, or pergola enhancements that need consistent, long-lasting coverage.

An outdoor eating area with a trellis roof with artificial flowers adorning

Shading and Light Control

Overhead applications such as pergolas, trellises, and canopies benefit greatly from the use of artificial greenery. Faux vines and foliage panels installed overhead offer soft shading that reduces glare, lowers heat absorption, and enhances the comfort of outdoor seating areas.

In locations where traditional shading devices might be too stark or visually intrusive, artificial greenery provides a seamless, biophilic solution that blends form and function. These systems create a filtered light experience, softening direct sunlight without completely blocking natural light.

Outdoor seating area under a patio cover covered in red floral artificial plants

Versatility in Installation

Artificial Plants Unlimited designs and manufactures greenery solutions that are highly adaptable. Whether you're wrapping a column with vine panels, adding infill between railings, or covering unsightly exterior surfaces, our products are engineered for flexibility and long-term resilience.

Furthermore, our faux plant systems are modular and scalable, making them ideal for projects of all sizes—from boutique hospitality venues to large-scale urban developments.

Exterior Applications That Make an Impact

  • Columns: Add vertical interest and biophilic appeal while concealing unattractive structural elements.
  • Walls: Transform blank or graffiti-prone surfaces into lush, green focal points.
  • Fencing/Railings: Use faux foliage infill for added privacy and beauty.
  • Pergolas/Overhead: Soften sunlight and create comfortable, shaded areas without ongoing maintenance.
  • Infill: Close visual gaps between structures to streamline the space and provide privacy.

A Smarter Way to Go Green

Incorporating artificial greenery into exterior design isn't just a smart visual move—it's a practical solution to some of the most common challenges faced by commercial properties. From deterring vandalism and increasing privacy to creating comfortable outdoor environments, our faux plant systems offer year-round beauty without seasonal upkeep.

At Artificial Plants Unlimited, we combine craftsmanship with innovation to help designers, property owners, and facility managers bring their outdoor visions to life—beautifully, efficiently, and sustainably.