Abstract This chapter focuses on lipid and polymer‐based biomimetic membranes for separations. We first discuss the structure, organization, and transport properties of biological membranes that form the inspiration for biomimetic membranes with a focus on aspects relevant to synthetic membrane development. This is followed by a description of the novel properties and current strategies for synthesis of biomimetic membranes. Lipid and polymer‐based membranes are discussed as well as the emerging area of artificial‐channel‐based membranes. A short outlook on the advancements needed for commercialization of biomimetic membranes is also presented.