Dawn Tanis
Dawn Tanis is a Sales Design Consultant at Plantique Florida, where she specializes in biophilic design—creating interior environments that connect people with nature and enhance well-being. Based in Fort Lauderdale, Dawn designs and delivers custom interiors capes, including moss walls, green walls, and seasonal installations that bring life, color, and calm into both commercial and residential spaces.
Blending creativity with a passion for wellness, Dawn has built her expertise through hands-on experience and mentorship from industry veterans. Her design approach is rooted in understanding how people use and experience their spaces, ensuring every project is functional, inspiring, and uniquely tailored. From vibrant atrium lobbies to lush indoor hangars, her work consistently transforms spaces into natural sanctuaries that reflect balance and beauty.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Dawn values faith, family, and purpose. She continues to expand her skills through industry certifications and aims to submit her recent projects for design awards. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family and grandkids and hopes to return to volunteering with teen moms—a cause that remains close to her heart.
What do you attribute your success to?
I’ve always found peace and inspiration in nature, and that love for green spaces has shaped my career. Moving to South Florida gave me the opportunity to combine creativity and wellness by designing interiors that connect people to nature. Though I’m self-taught, I’ve been fortunate to learn under the mentorship of Pat, who has over 30 years of experience in the industry. Much of my growth has come from hands-on experience—collaborating with clients, managing projects, and witnessing firsthand how plants can completely transform indoor environments. I design for both commercial and residential clients, from revitalizing atrium lobbies to creating plant-filled hangars in Palm Beach. Each project is thoughtfully tailored to how people interact with and experience their spaces. What I love most is seeing the transformation—how nature brings life, calm, and balance into built environments. Watching clients’ reactions as they see their spaces come alive is truly rewarding and reminds me why I do what I do.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this field is simple: don’t let age or fear hold you back. You can reinvent yourself at any stage in life. Stay curious, ask questions, and keep learning. Most importantly, follow what excites you—passion and persistence will take you further than you imagine.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Starting a new career at 58 was both intimidating and exciting. I had to quickly learn the technical aspects of plant care and the business side of design while building credibility in a competitive market like South Florida. It hasn’t been easy, but every challenge has been an opportunity to grow. This industry is constantly evolving, and there’s incredible potential for creativity, sustainability, and connection—especially as more people recognize the value of bringing nature into everyday spaces.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Faith, family, and purpose guide everything I do. I value creativity, integrity, and making a positive impact—both through my work and in the community. I plan to pursue industry certifications, submit recent projects for awards, and continue giving back by volunteering with teen moms. Time with my family and grandkids keeps me grounded and grateful.