LANDSCAPING MATTERS

Beyond beautifying the home environment, greenery also has a cooling effect on the building, especially if planted on the building’s roof. When green plants photosynthesise during the day, they reduce the concentration of carbon dioxide and contribute to better air quality—especially if you have indoor plants. A hot outdoor compound would also benefit from water features, which can cool the air through evaporative cooling. Added bonus: it’s good feng shui! More recently, studies in biophilia—where people are innately predisposed towards favouring natural environments—have suggested that those with visual access to greenery exhibit greater psychological wellness, and thus better health. Now, that’s something money can’t buy.