The Plant Effect
Essential Ways to Style Your Space with Plants
Houseplants are more than just decoration. They're living, breathing organisms that can enhance your home not only visually, but they also improve air quality and boost your mood. Whether you're a seasoned plant parent or a budding green thumb, adding plants into your home decor adds feel good vibes and a touch of nature's magic. Here are some fresh ways to decorate with indoor greenery.
Photo: Rosy Heart
Styled by: Red Lark
1. Understand Your Space
Before you rush to buy a bunch of greenery, assess the areas of your home where plants might live. Consider different light levels—some plants thrive in bright, indirect sunlight, while others are suited to low light conditions. Knowing the light requirements of different plants will help you choose varieties that are likely to thrive in your home.
2. Choose the Right Plants
Select plants based on the conditions of your home and your ability to care for them. If you're often busy, opt for low-maintenance plants like snake plants, ZZ plants, or pothos. If you have a brighter, sunnier space, consider succulents or cacti, which require more light but less watering.
3. Mix and Match for Visual Interest
Create visual interest by mixing different types of plants. Combine tall, leafy plants like fiddle leaf figs or palms with smaller, bushier plants like ferns or spider plants. Add in some trailing varieties like string of pearls or ivy to drape over shelves or hang from ceilings. The variety in texture and shape will make your collection more appealing.
Photo: Rosy Heart
Styled by: Red Lark
4. Consider the Containers
The pots and containers you choose are just as important as the plants themselves when it comes to decor. Choose pots that complement your room’s style. Ceramics in neutral colors offer a classic look, while bold, patterned pots can add a splash of color and personality. Don’t forget about the functionality—ensure pots have proper drainage to keep your plants healthy.
5. Use Plants as Design Elements
Treat plants like furniture pieces. A large tree can anchor a room or fill an empty corner, while a group of plants can serve as a natural divider in open-plan spaces. Smaller plants can add life to bookshelves, coffee tables, or desks, turning ordinary spaces into lush corners.
Photo: West Elm
6. Hang Them Up
When floor space is limited, go vertical. Hanging planters can make use of ceiling or wall space and bring a new dimension to your decor. This approach is particularly effective in small apartments or homes where surface area is at a premium.
7. Play with Levels
Using plant stands of varying heights can help create a more dynamic display. Cluster plants in groups, ensuring that each plant is visible and can access adequate light. Tiered plant stands or multi-level shelves are great for creating an interesting and engaging plant display.
Photo: Matthew Williams courtesty of Jessica Helgerson Interior Design
‘Plants give us oxygen for the lungs and for the soul.’
- Linda Solegato
Decorating with indoor plants brings a piece of the outside world into your home, a more holistic environment. It's a simple strategy that not only makes your space more beautiful, but it add to your wellbeing. I encourage your to experiment with different plants and types of arrangements to find what works best for your lifestyle.
Tell me what favorite houseplant is and how you bring it to life at home!
I’m so glad you’re here - thank you for reading!
Chat soon,
Bridget
