If you’re anything like me, your indoor plants don’t last too long. Whether you are a first-time plant owner like me or a well-seasoned gardener these simple tips and tricks from gardening expert and Scotts Osmocote ambassador Melissa King can help you be a better plant parent (without having to spend endless hours refining that black thumb).
Tip 1: Don’t drown your plants with love
Over watering is the biggest killer of indoor plants. Wilting leaves can be a sign of too much or too little water (among other things). So if your house plants are sulking, don’t always assume that they are thirsty. Poke your finger into the soil first to see if it’s dry down to your second knuckle before getting out the watering can.
Tip 2: Some extra TLC never hurt
Give your house plants a regular wipe down with a moist cloth to prevent an accumulation of dust on the leaves. To give them a thorough clean, pop them in the shower every month or so to remove any build up, helping make them look shiny and healthy. You could also put them outside in the rain or sprinkle them with the hose before bringing them inside again.
Tip 3: Lighting is key
Some houseplants grow well in low light, others need it a bit brighter to flourish, so position them around your home according to their required light levels and keep them away from heaters and blasts of cold and warm air.
Here’s a good rule to live by; If it’s bright enough to be able to read a book in a room with the lights off, then there’s enough light for your indoor plants to thrive.
Tip 4: Plants like dinner too
They key to thriving plant babies? Food! Pick up Scotts Osmocote pour + feed. You don’t have to mess around diluting it in a watering can, simply pour a capful into the base of your plant every fortnight or when your plants look like they need a boost.
Tip 5: When was the last time you changed your potting mix?
If your plant babies are looking a bit tired or practically jumping out of their pots then it might be time to repot them. I recommend trying Scotts Osmocote potting mix for indoor plants, which is tailor-made to bring out the best in your green beauties. It doesn’t contain compost or pine bark, which are known to shelter pesky fungus gnats. Instead, it’s based on an expert recipe of Scotts Coir, Sphagnum Peat and Perlite, which provides the ideal foundation to keep your indoor plant babies looking fresh, green and lively.
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The following is an extract from the new book Nature Style, by Alana Langan of Melbourne botanical wares brand IvyMuse. It’s out later this month.
If you’re like us and have young children, the bathroom might be the one place at home where you can catch a moment to yourself. (Well, sometimes at least!) Here we can restore internal harmony with quiet contemplation and invigorate ourselves, gathering up our reserves for another day in the world. This space is home to some of our most precious wellbeing rituals and plays an important role in a biophilic home. The bathroom is often the smallest and most plainly decorated room in a house, but there are still ways to make it biophilia-friendly without resorting to a complete overhaul.
Houseplants
When it comes to adding greenery to a home, the bathroom should not be overlooked because it’s actually the perfect habitat for indoor plants. Bathrooms provide a warm, humid environment, which mimics the more tropical conditions where the vast majority of indoor plants originate. Finicky indoor plants like ferns are at home here, as are other moisture-loving plants. Common complaints such as fronds with brown, dried tips suddenly become a thing of the past. An added bonus is that plant care becomes a breeze. Simply place your plants in the sink or bath (or taller plants under the shower) for a thorough drenching.
Common concerns like a bathroom with little natural light can be overcome by selecting the right plant from the get-go. A striking Zanzibar gem will thrive in low-light environments and welcome the humidity. A tiny bathroom? Get creative with your use of space. Why not perch a potted plant on a shelf, hang a planter above the bath or simply place a moisture-loving air plant in your shower accessories cavity? Even the smallest touch of greenery will add softness and warmth.
With all their hard surfaces, bathrooms can be stark and sterile in contrast to other rooms, as they are usually devoid of soft furnishings other than a towel or two. Plants can make a real difference, softening the look and feel and ultimately making it a more appealing place to be. Layer the plant life using small plants like hoya on vanities or windowsills, and add bigger options like umbrella trees in plant stands or rubber plants on the floor. If you can fit in a kentia palm or other tall tree like a fiddle leaf fig, go for it – they really help create a luxurious sanctuary vibe.
The big stuff
First up, assess. Where can you add layers, warmth and depth? Modern bathrooms often have clean straight lines so try to mix up the shapes and textures and lean towards organic, curvy forms that reflect those found in nature and that offer contrast. It’s worth focusing efforts on elements that can be retrofitted into your bathroom without too much trouble.
Take a moment to check out your vanity. If it’s constructed from synthetic materials can you replace the top with a more sensual, natural surface like marble or timber? How about the cabinetry? Can it be painted or sanded back to its original state, or new doors or pulls added instead?
Paint is a quick and relatively easy option to update walls and the ceiling. You can even paint the tiles if you’re feeling daring, but make sure you choose tile paint which is purpose-made. Wall treatments including washable wallpaper could be a possibility, depending on how the home and room is decorated already. For example, adding cedar panels to a 70s bathroom could look great. Not only will it fit with the style of the era but the fragrant smell will engage your senses and increase the biophilic effect in the room.
Wall adornments that can withstand bathroom condensation are a big yes too. Think about handmade ceramic sculptures, round or oval mirrors or art made from woven eco-materials such as grasses.
Furniture options in the bathroom are sometimes limited, but even the smallest spaces can benefit from a stool. Try timber for its durability, wondrous feel and scent. We love solid timber or cork stools in particular. They’re a great way to add a sculptural chunk of the outdoors inside. In large bathrooms that can accommodate extra items of furniture – a chair or freestanding cabinet, for instance – choose pieces that include biophilic elements like timber and stone.
And remember, even the smallest touches can have a big impact. A cedar bath mat, for example, is functional and represents a strong connection to nature. It also smells great!
The small details
Choose sensual textures for the bathroom that really engage the senses. Start with quality towels. Natural fibres like Egyptian cotton or linen are the most tactile and comforting – and well worth the splurge in our opinion. Linen and cotton towelling also make great bathrobes.
Scent plays a big role in the bathroom. Be aware of the presence of artificial fragrances and pungent chemicals in your personal care and bathroom cleaning products. Try to use natural and plant-based formulations where possible – the aroma is usually more subtle and reflective of what you might experience outdoors.
Ideally, bathroom surfaces should be styled for functionality, but always make room for at least one or two plants. They provide a pleasant biophilic view while you’re taking a bath or shower.
–Nature Style: Cultivating Wellbeing at Home with Plants by Alana Langan andJacqui Vidal with photography by Annette O’Brien published by Thames & Hudson. $34.99. Available later this month. Pre-order here.
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Show me the light
The first rule when creating your own thriving green metropolis is to understand the light. It sounds super boring if you’re ready to buy plants right away, but buying the right plants, or placing them in the right zones allows them to thrive and makes you a happy plant parent. If you start with some of the low maintenance plants below, you can build confidence and then branch into some of the trickier varieties out there. There are plenty of apps you can use to determine the light direction in your place.
North – Low to moderate indirect light. Only suited for low light loving plants like Mother in Law’s Tongue, Peperomia or a Zanzibar Gem. Great for hallways, low spots in living rooms next to a cabinet or couch where there isn’t as much light filtering through.
South – Bright indirect light to full sun in the afternoon. Best for light lovers like succulents and cactus. We’ve never had much luck with blue toned succulents inside; they seem to love the outdoor sun best. Play it safe and go for the green, fleshy succulents that are a little more forgiving. You really can’t go wrong with a great cactus in a handmade planter, though!
East – Medium bright, indirect light. Try a classic Devil’s Ivy (Pothos) or a hardy Bird’s Nest Fern which can tolerate more light. Nothing beats a trailing Pothos dangling over a high shelf in the kitchen or on the windowsill in the bathroom. They’re a great way to introduce some green in your vertical space if you are short on floor space or have little gardeners (kids and pets) running around.
West- Medium bright, indirect light, with some direct sun at the end of the day. Most house plants get on with this kind of light. Lush Boston Ferns, Ficus and Philodendrons are all good ones to try and come in lots of different sizes and cool species. Just don’t place anything too close to the windowpanes, as the magnification from the glass can burn their leaves.
Chicken or the egg?
What comes first, the planter or the plant? It’s a question as old as time. There are lots and lots of different planters, so we vote for planter first! If you want to repot your plant, you need to make sure your planter has a drainage hole. If it doesn’t have a drainage hole, you can use it as a cache pot. Leaving your plant in the plastic nursery pot, remove it for watering, then pop it back in its colourful house afterwards. We love this idea, as you can change up the look whenever you want.
Group love
Sometimes one isn’t enough, especially if you are after that lush tropical vibe. When grouping together your new besties, different themes can unify your look. For example, you can combine the same plant types, like pairing architectural succulents and cacti together, or tropical leaf plants like a Monstera, Philodendron and Rubber Plants. Also, think about the foliage colour: dark greens together with a variegated species will make those variegated babies really pop! Consider the height and shape of plants, too. Look for a taller, straight plant to pair with a bushier one, then maybe a short and squat one. This ensures that each baby gets their own moment.
Power of one
If it all seems a little intimidating, just start with one plant you love. Choose the right room with the perfect light, nurture it, care for it and learn its likes and dislikes. Once you know when to water, or when to prune a stray leaf you can add another of the same variety, or upsize your planter. You can continue doing this until you have one giant, luscious plant and everyone thinks you are the gardening king or queen!
-Jennifer Sampson is the creative director of homewares company Jones & Co. All the pots pictured are from their latest collection.
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It doesn’t feel like that long ago that the plant pot scene was rather dire. Sometimes it felt like the only option was terracotta (which as a colour is back in vogue), but that has changed enormously over the last five years with the variety and quality of pots now at unprecedented levels. Much more of a feature these days, from monochrome to terrazzo, brightly emblazoned or sculptural, the latest pots are far more decorative and as such, people are prepared to invest in them.
Started by Josh Harrison in 2006, The Balcony Garden is a purveyor of stylish, modern pots; the business emerging when Josh saw a hole in the Australian market for well-designed pots. While there are two showrooms (one in Sydney and one in Melbourne), the busy online business offers fast shipping Australia wide – it’s free to NSW, VIC, QLD and the ACT.
“Often times we see our customers using the pots as standalone pieces without actually including plants,” says Josh which is testament to how far the pot scene has come and also speaks to the appeal of a beautifully designed statement pot.
A landscape designer by trade, Josh is also a very useful source when it comes to pot styling and today, he shares with us his thoughts on how to create the perfect pot cluster. From what pots go together to what plants suit which pot, Josh is a wealth of knowledge on the topic.
Three is the magic number Even numbers create symmetry, while odd numbers create interest. Creating interest should be at the core of any great pot cluster. A pot cluster of three forces the eye to look around and take in each individual pot and plant combination.
Tall & short In addition to grouping pots in threes, another great idea is creating interest by staggering the heights of the pots. Not only do the different heights create interest, but they also showcase each of the plants. A staggered cluster of pots will also provide you with the opportunity to use plants with different heights as well.
“We designed our LOOB pots specifically to be used as a three-pot cluster,” says Josh.
To mix & match? Or not? Different pots or planters can be used in the same cluster, but we recommend using the same colour. Using different shapes is a great way to create staggered heights within the pot cluster. Mixing different colours is a bit trickier, which is why we suggest sticking to the one colour and will ensure your pot cluster is looking the goods.
Plants When it comes to mixing plants, there are no rules. You can use the same plant in each pot or mix it up and use a different plant in each pot. The possibilities are endless!
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There’s been an enormous revival in the popularity of houseplants. Previously relegated to the 1970s, indoor greenery has exploded back into fashion! Driven largely through the increased focus on wellness, and often seen styled beautifully on social media, cultivating your own indoor jungle oasis can seem daunting.
Image: Leaf Supply
But there are plenty of beautiful, healthy, and well-established plants that you can grab for a local bargain online. Or, alternatively, if you’ve become an expert propagator, you could look at selling your own plant babies!
Amanda Behere from Gumtree Australia shares the following advice:
Selling:
Propagate plants: Think about any plants at home you could divide and propagate to sell separately – veggies, ferns and houseplants are great options! To propagate, just take a stem or healthy leaf clipping, place in clean water and give it extra sunlight – it usually grows strong healthy roots within a month. Succulents are a great option for this and very popular on site, with over 4,000 listings.
Money does grow on trees: When your ferns or growers are due for a trim, don’t just throw their lengths in the bin – sell plants as cuttings or ‘off-cuts’ as some people enjoy buying them for the challenge, or want to buy clippings for a small price. This also helps someone else in their green thumbed adventure! Some examples here and here.
Patience pays off: Mature plants can make some serious money. If you bought a cheap plant at the supermarket and it has matured into a beautiful home feature, it can be sold for more money. Many people want to buy ‘interiors-ready’ plants for styling, so you can sometimes double the price. See a larger plant here.
Know your item value: Know the right price (or approximate price) for what you are selling. Simply search your plant type on Gumtree before posting to get your price right and this will increase your chances of selling!
Buying:
Do your research: Dedicate time to research what’s out there to help you understand the average price of similar plants. Search by style and category and both new/used plants to see the best options for your budget.
Ask questions: Get to know more about the plants by asking sellers questions about the species, their specific needs, and any questions you might have about its Gumtree description. It is also important to ask for images of the whole plant to ensure every part of it is healthy or as per its description.
Keyword searching: The number of plants on Gumtree can be overwhelming, so to whittle down your options, make sure you search via keywords to find the exact plant you are looking for. If you search ‘plants’ in Gumtree over 16,000 listings pop up so be specific based on what you are looking for – for example searching ‘Philodendron’ brings up 300 listings, which is much easier to sift through!
Package deal: Some buyers will generally be selling more than one plant, so ask if they have anything else available and see if you can get a deal if you buy more than one.
Tips such as these are accessible to people of all skill levels; from those of you who are dedicated to cultivating a lush jungle paradise in your own home, to those of you who just want to add a few splashes of greenery to a room. Either way, finding the right plants for you and your home has never been easier.
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It’s no secret that Australians love being outdoors and among nature, so spending so much more time indoors right now (due to Covid restrictions and the colder weather) can be very challenging. We’ve pulled together some of our top tips to help you survive this difficult time, while we swap the beach for the bedroom, and the outdoors for the office.
Breathe life into your space with indoor plants
If you can’t go outside, why not bring it to you and accessorise your home with plants? Indoor plants are great for de-stressing your space and purifying the air around the home. There are so many low maintenance varieties readily available and they can be seamlessly blended with a mix of artificial plants to reduce your everyday maintenance even further. Mix and match your pots to suit the décor in your home, blend textures with patterns and even add a pop of colour.
If possible, add hanging pots to corners of rooms, this is a great way of softening harsh corners, a stylish alternative to artwork, and a great tool to save on floor space! Indoor plants can become main features in your home and create another layer of personality to any space.
The power of flowers
Floral arrangements can work to dress up any room within the home and can also be tailored to match your own personal style. Blending fresh floral with natural greenery from your garden is a great way to compliment the colours of your blooms and creates another layer of texture to any arrangement. Use your favourite vases, jars, jugs or vessels throughout the home and move these around the space daily for a different look and feel.
Make the most of natural light & ventilation
When spending increased time indoors, it’s important to make the most of the natural light that your home gets throughout the day. Start the day with opening up blinds and windows and let the light and fresh air flood through your space. Be sure your home office set up provides enough natural light to work comfortably throughout the working day and make sure you move around during the day, follow the sun and soak up that precious vitamin D.
Introduce a nursery in the kitchen
Go greener at home by growing your own herbs for cooking. Not only will this save you money and reduce supermarket visits, but you will be doing your bit for the environment and cultivating something fresh within your home. Herbs such as Basil, Chives, Coriander, Mint and Parsley are just a few options that are easy to grow at home. They always smell great and will make a great addition to your favourite dishes.
Mirror Mirror
Introducing mirrors into your living areas will create the illusion of more space. Creative positioning can even maximise your connection to the outdoors. For example, place a mirror next to your window to reflect the beautiful tree outside or continue the feel of your garden indoors. Mirrors are also a great tool to bounce natural light around your home and allow your communal areas to feel lighter and brighter.
–Koraly Fasone is lead interior designer for Porter Davis Homes, who were awarded Australian Professional House Builder of the Year in 2019, and a further five times in their 20-year history.
For some us, our indoor plants are one of the few living things we’ve been interacting with while we’ve been staying indoors, and boy do we adore them!
#plantsofinstagram has been used a huge 5.2 million times on Instagram and #plantstagram 1.5 million times! There’s no doubt this trend is here to stay and the social network is helping connect people all over the world who are just as passionate about their plant pals!
Lauren Camilleri (left) and Sophia Kaplan of Leaf Supply. Photo by Luisa Brimble.
You may not realise, but as we head into the start of winter we need to make some adjustments to the way we care for our indoor plants. So whether you have five or 55, here are Leaf Supply’s top tips for nurturing your loved ones during the colder months:
1. Reassess your plant placement – in winter the sun sits much lower in the sky and as such light moves through our spaces differently. In order to maximise the light reaching your indoor plants in winter you may need to do some shuffling to get your plant pals closer to the light source. Using plant stands and shelving can help give plants a better view of those precious rays.
2. Stop fertilising – if you’re a diligent plant parent who has been giving their indoor jungle a regular feed through the warmer months, now’s the time to give yourself and your plant a little break. Many plants have a period of dormancy during the colder seasons and can’t effectively use the extra nutrients they get from fertilisers, which cause a harmful build up instead.
3. Reduce watering – lower temperatures and generally lower light means plants will take longer to dry out. Many tropical foliage plants like the top two-to-five centimetres of their potting mix to dry out between watering. Continue to check the soil of your plants every five days or so, if it’s dry you can water but if it’s still wet give it a little longer. And don’t forget to empty the saucers under your plants around 30 mins after watering to ensure they aren’t sitting in stagnant water.
4. Look out for pests – some of our indoor plants, particularly those tropical beauties, can suffer during winter and struggling plants are susceptible to pests and disease. Check on them regularly, looking carefully over leaves (front and back) to catch any issues early before they take hold. If you do find a sick plant, quarantine it from the rest of your collection while you treat it to avoid infestation.
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5. Don’t forget about humidity and ventilation – while we’re bunkering down with the heaters going, the already dry air in our homes can become even more so. Be sure to keep plants away from heaters and consider using a humidifier while you have the hot air pumping. Your plants will also appreciate fresh air so try and crack a window when you can.
Across the country, people seem to be honing their green fingers as we all get used to the idea of staying home. And it’s not just in the garden either. Houseplants have never been more popular, but now we’re supposed to stay home unless we need essentials, how can we get our green fix?
The answer is online, and this is no longer a niche market. There are plenty of places to buy your pathos, fiddle leaf or monstera on the internet, you just need to know where to look.
Popular Aussie plant influencer Lush Little Jungle (Rachel Smiles) has composed a list of more than 50 places to buy plants online and is sharing them in one easy to access document!
Rachel Smiles of Little Lush Jungle
So whether you’re looking to make your Zoom background look a little more aesthetically pleasing, you want to add life and air-purifying goodness to your surroundings, you want to support local businesses or all of the above, we have you covered!
We all know indoor plants have never been more on trend. I know, how can something from nature be in fashion exactly? But you know I’m right! Every magazine, blog and Instagram account is teeming with images of towering Fiddle Leaf Figs, impressive trailing specimens of Devil’s Ivy and String of Pearls, and mighty Monsteras.
They look beautiful, they add that je ne sais quoi to an interior, heck, they even make your air healthier. Not to mention the harder to prove psychological effects (like the smug feeling that comes with actually keeping them alive).
In the last couple of years, I’ve gone from black-thumbed disaster to proud as punch plant baby mama. But it’s hard work. And when you’ve got human babes to keep fed and watered (and the rest), a business and a household to run, it’s sometimes easy to neglect the leafy variety until you suddenly panic when they’re all looking a little dusty, and shove them in the shower for a good drink and drain! Phew! They lived to see another day!
I call this one the Beanstalk! Photo by Jacqui Turk.
There was a time I didn’t even know plants needed to be fed. You may be the same and you’re not alone (no judgment here!). Yes, plants need water (obviously!) but they also need food. It was cottoning onto this nugget of plant care wisdom that changed everything for me and means I now have greenery everywhere! Not just in pots, but propagating on every window sill! I started adding Yates Thrive Houseplant Liquid Plant Food to my watering can a couple of years ago (around the time I got my first Fiddle Leaf and with it, a real sense of plant mum responsibility) and it made a real difference.
But now there’s an even easier way to feed your plants, and there’s even one just for orchids, which are as easy to kill as they are an elegantly beautifully piece of decor in their own right! Orchids aren’t cheap, so while you can tell yourself it’ll last way longer than a bunch of cut flowers, that doesn’t ring true if you kill it after three weeks, does it?
With the new Yates Thrive Indoor Plants & Ferns Drippers and Yates Thrive Indoor Orchids Drippers, you’ll be well on your way to plant mum smugness with minimal effort. You simply write the date on the back of the dripper, snip the end off, stick it in the pot, and sit back knowing your plant baby is getting all the nutrients it needs for four weeks. Even if the liquid disappears from the dripper quicker than that, fear not, you’re still good for four weeks. This is set and forget for your indoor plants and orchids. Of course, you do still have to water them!
It’s such an easy way help you have healthy, happy looking indoor plants pepping up your interior. And because your plants will now all stay alive and you won’t need to buy anymore (apart from, it’s an addiction!), you can spend some of that extra cash on some of the many gorgeous planters, pots and hangers available these days.
Further cementing their prominent position within the Australian indoor plant scene, the latest outing from Ivy Muse ‘Playback’ features eight fabulous new pieces including plant hangers, plant sconces, ceramics, stands and accessories. And with limited-edition rust and blue hues an integral part, there’s no denying the solid 1970’s vibe underpinning the collection.
“Our use of French blue and clay as the core ‘limited edition’ colours in this collection reflect the bold colour palettes that were popular in the 70’s. As a pair, they sit so well together to pack a colour punch but also seamlessly work into a more neutral colour scheme when used singularly,” says one half of the Ivy Muse duo Alana Langan.
Chubby pot and Chubby stand, from $230
Having both recently moved into homes built in the 1960’s and 1970’s both Alana and her business partner Jacqui Vidal concede that it shows in the range. “We were enveloped in the era and felt that flow through into our designs for the collection. With a nod to the plant-filled decadence of the 70’s, ‘Playback’ is really about maximising greenery in your space. With a focus on form and vibrant colour this collection offers plant lovers new ways to showcase their gang and reap the benefits of a life filled with plants,” says Jacqui.
‘Stud’ plant sconce, $180
Two of my favourite pieces, the brand has produced its popular ‘Loop’ and ‘Dot’ plant stake designs in the two new colour ways also. “Our plant stake can be used to tame wild climbing and trailing plants like devil’s ivy, heartleaf philodendron and hoya. It’s been a very popular piece and for good reason as people are always telling us they can’t find any well-designed plant stakes that do the job!” says Jacqui. The stand-alone stakes work with any pot and simply sit deep in the soil to secure the plant.
‘Loop’ plant stake in clay, $39
‘Dot’ plant stake in French blue, $59
Customer feedback played a big role in the collection and resulted in many tweaks and even the new ‘Stevie’ wall hook design. “As a business, we have always been open to listening to our customers and their needs and we put some of their feedback into action. The ‘Stevie’ wall hook for instance was designed for people who love the idea of hanging plants, but not the idea of drilling into their ceiling. It’s really rewarding to be able to collaborate with our audience in that way,” says Alana.
The ‘Stevie’ wall hook, from $95
The brand has also teamed up with Robert Gordon Pottery again, on a new range of hand-made pots to complement the range. “They are slip-cast from stoneware and terracotta and each pot has been combined with unique glazes and is available in one size,” says Alana.
‘Joni’ pot, $105, is part of the brand’s collaboration with Robert Gordon
After launching in 2014 with just four plant stands, Ivy Muse has grown into a complete plant brand with a Melbourne retail store, plant styling service and a book. “What started as an idea to ‘encourage creativity with greenery’ in 2014 has grown into an all-encompassing commitment to enhancing wellbeing through the use of plants. Jacqui and I are passionate about wellness and the many life-enhancing benefits plants can bring people including decreased stress levels, increased creativity and increased air purity. And with our growing plant styling service, we see more and more people opening up to the idea of having plants in their home and it really is becoming the new norm. Hurrah!”
Photography: Annette O’Brien | Styling: Alana Langan
When you’re a leading light on the Australian landscape scene, it makes sense that greenery is the hallmark of your home. Located in the Perth seaside suburb of Scarborough, this recently renovated home houses exterior stylist and landscaper Ascher Smith, her husband Dylan and their two young sons Hudson and Parker.
The home’s lush courtyard
“The design brief to our architect was to for them to design a modern addition, with the use of natural timber and black steel elements on the exterior with a crisp, minimal interior design so we could create a style in the interior that was a reflection of us. We had fun decorating with all of our collected pieces over the years, and it always feels like home because of it,” says Ascher of her home that was originally a simple single storey residence and now boasts a second floor that takes in sweeping ocean views.
Lounge room
“I’d say our style was mid-century modern, with a dash of industrial. I’m obsessed with black and white clean lines but need the timber, natural stone or greenery to soften the look. We know we are a couple that don’t do things in halves and both have very creative and artistic families, so when our quest began to create our dream home, we knew that the end result would be unlike most other houses you see,” says Ascher.
Master bedroom – now that is commitment to greenery!
The master bedroom boasts a fabulous fire place too
“When we renovated, we stayed within the footprint of the original home and added extra space by extending over out courtyards with hallways and a west-facing balcony. This way, we could keep our existing renovation downstairs and both courtyards and garden spaces, which were so important to try and maintain throughout the build,” says Ascher.
Greenery pops against timber throughout the home
“Our back courtyard has been the forever changing room in our house. The once ugly unusable space has been an enchanting, secluded, lush green room that we can entertain or relax in no matter what time of year it is. Seen from almost every room in our house, we have recreated a little Italy out there,” says Ascher referencing the pizza oven that takes pride of place. “Dylan makes the best pizzas in town right here in our backyard and my constant itch to redecorate, paint or move pot plants and furniture around allows this courtyard to change dramatically day to day,” says Ascher.
Pizza oven
Large glass stacker doors connect the indoors with the outside and the courtyard features travertine paving and lush greenery. “The gardens are mass planted and provide us with year round screening, greenery and colour in the courtyards. We furnished the area with only a large teak sofa, some casual seating and the blue Tuscan pizza oven made by Dylan himself. We were careful not to clutter the area with furnishings as they are still small spaces and you need places to rest the eyes,” says Ascher.
Kitchen
“We love how homely our house feels, even after our extensive modern renovation. There is always a comfortable chair to sit in, delicious food aromas that lead you through the front door, cheerful artwork and family photos in every room. I want our house to feel ‘homely’. It’s what we both grew up with and it’s so important that our friends, family and children feel welcomed and comfortable in our space too,” says Ascher.
The “Here Comes The Sun” collection is inspired by a lifelong love of colours and design that evokes fun. The new range is loaded with colours and imagery inspired by the Aussie summer, including hand painted swimmers on pots and vases in vibrant hues.
Image: Jones & Co
We love the luxe garden pots that are wheel thrown and bursting with colour and hand painted designs, or the range brand’s bestselling range of vases and vessels with loveable and quirky designs.
Images: Jones & Co
Born originally as “Have you met Miss Jones” in 2006, owner Jennifer Jones works with passion to create distinctive styles for the home and to bring joy to people’s living spaces. The collections are the perfect gift to make that someone special giggle and smile. The entire range is designed in Bondi Beach and then crafted by specialized artisans in SE Asia.
While we’d all love to constantly splurge on new interior buys, most of us can only afford the occasional rejig. And while cheap and chic homewares are widely available (meaning seasonal updates are within the reach of most), what if I challenged you to work with what you already own?
When it comes to interior styling, working with what you already have can seem like an unexciting option but there’s something hugely satisfying in heading down the thrifty path. Like rediscovering old clothes, restyling your home with your existing belongings will bring a lot of joy to both you and your bank balance.
Play with height “I rent my apartment so I know a thing or two about working with what you’ve got, because in a rental there are things that I don’t like but unfortunately can’t change,” says Hunting for George co-founder Lucy Glade-Wright who likes to remind people to use their entire space (floor to ceiling) when styling at home.
“One of my biggest tips when it comes to styling a space is to think about the height of your décor and try to add multiple levels. For example, instead of all your pot plants being on the floor, try raising some on a plant stand or crate. Or when hanging your artwork, why not think about resting one on a bench so they are not all at the same level,” says Lucy who loves hanging things from the ceiling and mantelpiece too. “By varying heights when styling you are creating more depth within your space, which will result in a far more interesting layout,” says Lucy.
The laundry and kitchen live side by side in this apartment but clever styling tricks mean that you hardly notice. I love the pop of hanging greenery on high.
Create a focal point
“If you don’t love your floors or perhaps you don’t like the features within your space, then create a focal point to draw your attention away from these areas,” says Lucy. This could be a dining table, statement rug, side board or amazing artwork. The idea is basically to redirect attention away from the bad stuff onto the good. “You don’t need to physically cover something to hide it. If you choose a striking artwork or a gorgeous piece of timber furniture that is where your eyes will be drawn,” says Lucy.
A fabulous gallery wall will always draw the eye. The latest art prints from Hunting for George give endless styling options.
Consolidate your storage
“If you’re anything like me then you would have accumulated lots of different furniture items over the years. In my dining room, for example, I had a bookshelf in one corner, a drinks cabinet in another and a small bench,” says Lucy who decided to consolidate three pieces of furniture into one. “Now I have one large sideboard that provides even more storage than the other three pieces combined. By consolidating three items into one I created more space and that made the room feel larger and less cluttered,” says Lucy.
Greenery It’s something we’ve been banging on about for a while now – no doubt most of you are schooled in the necessity of greenery and Lucy agrees. “I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, indoor plants will make your space look divine! Adding greenery to your interiors not only looks great but it purifies the air. Be sure to position your plants in a good position. All plants have different needs but they all need sunlight so try to find a nice light space for them to live,” says Lucy.
This home features plenty of greenery outside and in
Lucy recommends devil’s ivy or a rubber plant for novice gardeners due to their hardiness. “They are both nice and sturdy and able to handle a range of conditions. Then style with your choice of pot to complete the look,” says Lucy.
Hunting for George’s best-selling ‘Jimmy’ ceramic planter, $95
Paint
It’s not always an option if you’re in a rental but for those that aren’t, paint is a relatively inexpensive way to makeover a space. “There is nothing a fresh coat of paint can’t fix. Choose a white or a neutral light colour. This will help to make your room appear larger and give it an instant upgrade,” says Lucy.
Given the success of same-day online flower delivery services and the continued popularity of indoor greenery, it makes sense that someone would transfer the concept to pots and plants. The Huffington Post recently reported on research that reveals that indoor plants are wildly popular with millennials – evidently humans have a need to nurture and if we don’t have children or pets, plants are the next best thing! They’re also a relatively cheap way to brighten up apartments. Anyhow, I digress…
Based in Sydney (with a view to expanding into Brisbane and Melbourne soon), Leaf Supply was launched in late 2016 by Lauren Camilleri and Sophia Kaplan. “Both Lauren and myself saw a gap in the market for an accessible, interesting and beautifully curated indoor plant delivery service. We were always wanting to send plants as gifts ourselves and were frustrated at the lack of availability of such a service. We both love plants with a passion and wanted to share the happiness they bring to the world! We know that some people are nervous about owning plants so another goal is to build a community of confident plant owners,” says Sophia.
Leaf Supply’s Sophia Kaplan and Lauren Camilleri
Delivering Monday to Friday (same-day for orders placed before 11am) to most Sydney suburbs within 15 kilometres of the CBD, Leaf Supply deliver potted plants with care cards and are on hand to answer any customer questions too. “Each month we hand-select three new plants and match them with three pots – a calico wrap, standard pot and handmade ceramic planter,” says Sophia.
“Plants just aren’t being presented in a beautiful and approachable way – people can be overwhelmed by the choice and then afraid of investing in a plant they’re not confident in keeping alive. We take the guesswork out of plant care by sourcing plants suited for the indoors,” says Lauren.
Leaf Supply has a book in the works too
With a background in advertising, Sophia turned to plants after longing for a greater connection to nature. “As well as Leaf Supply, I run my namesake floral styling business Sophia Kaplan Plants & Flowers. Personally, my homes have always been filled with house plants and I believe hugely in the therapeutic power of gardens, both indoor and out,” says Sophia.
The Leaf Supply studio
“According to a 1989 NASA Clean Air Study, a lot of indoor plants provide a natural way of removing common household toxins from the air. There is also evidence that plants improve productivity and I’ve personally found that the act of caring for plants has a nurturing and therapeutic effect on our wellbeing. Plants are also just so beautiful and intriguing. They are an easy and super stylistic addition to any home or workplace. Greening gets addictive!” says Sophia.
A ‘Lipstick’ plant
The other co-founder Lauren has a magazine background (specifically art direction and design). “She is the design wiz behind all the great branding we have here,” says Sophia. In addition, the company welcomed a third team member recently, Ariella Werner-Seidler, who comes with a business background but has always had a passion for plants and has grown them for food too.
Excitingly, Leaf Supply has a book in the works, due for release next month. Not only does it profile a large variety of house plants but it shows how some prominent creatives integrate them into their homes and work spaces.
Leaf Supply’s book details a variety of house plants
Indoor plants have been having a moment for quite some time and the obsession doesn’t look to be slowing down. Gone are the days of daggy terracotta pots from your local hardware store, now pots and stands are as beautiful at the plants they home.
Status Quo collection
Proof of this comes in the latest collection of botanical wares from Melbourne-based studio IVY MUSE. Their seventh collection, Status Quo, features locally designed and made products in simple forms and an earthy colour palette.
Stem
A first for the label, the collection sees the release of Stem, a 3D printed vase. Made from clear glass and featuring a 3D printed ceramic top produced in collaboration with Alterfact Studio in Brunswick, Stem is ideal for propagating plants such as Devil’s Ivy, Monstera and is even suitable for flowers.
Braided Hanger
Status Quo also includes a handwoven leather and ceramic plant hanger named Braided Hanger, the result of a collaboration with Melbourne-based leather craftswoman Kym Lightfoot. Braided Hanger is available with three handmade ceramic pot colours, Emerald, Ivory and Cloud and two length drops.
IVY MUSE commissioned renowned Victorian potter Robert Gordon to produce the exclusive range of handmade pots to complement the Status Quo range. Slip-cast from ceramic, each pot has been combined with unique glazes and is available in one size.
Elevate Arc
Elevate
But that’s not all! Status Quo introduces four brand new plant stands, signalling a move into two new mediums: tubular steel and concrete. The Elevate series is made from powder-coated steel, each is available in Matt Black and Matt White and in four sizes: Small, Medium, Large and Elevate Arc. Each Elevate stand arrives with the choice of two concrete tabletops in Coal or Nude colourways, made in collaboration with Nood Co (ex Blockheads Matt and Kim).
Ever since I moved into my new apartment, I have been a little plant-crazy. Of course, no indoor plant is complete without a stylish planter. Here are my top 10 picks (some of which feature in my own humble abode).
Ivy Muse Boheme Pot
Designed and made in Melbourne, these pots come in four subtle, hand-glazed colours. Pair them up with a plant stand or hanger for a modern look – I currently have one in Sand hanging from the ceiling. $110.
Kmart Brass Finish Metal Planter
Who said style had to be expensive? This thrifty little gold number will stand out in all its golden glory. Not to mention the smooth, metallic finish is super trendy at the moment. Just $3.
Restore Grace Fabric Planters
Lovingly hand woven by a sister-in-law duo from Cooma NSW, I have two Restore Grace planters: one is a hessian planter bag with a funky monochrome tribal print, the other a stiff white cotton planter sewn together in a coiling technique. Find these guys on Etsy and support local work. From $14–$40.
Capra Designs Even Steven Eco Resin Pot
Another Melbourne talent to make it on the list, Steven’s pots are handmade from a water-based rather than solvent-based resin. This means that they not only look good in their abstract two-tone colours (peach and black is my favourite), but they are also better for the environment. $69.
West elm Mid-Century Turned Wood Leg Planter
Of all the planters I currently own this solid ceramic planter mounted on tapered wood legs is my favourite – and I own 10! The walnut colour of the legs contrasts beautifully against the matte white glaze, with simple line and dot pattern giving off a hint of Boho. $299.
Ikea Krusbär Pot
Two tone seems to be all the rage these days. This woven plant pot from Ikea gives off a warm natural feel, while the bold grey provides a modern element. You can even use these as storage if you don’t have enough indoor plants. $34.99.
Design Twins Stripe Pot
Picture a black and white bee with a metallic twist – that seems to be the inspiration behind these large but lightweight pots. Hand painted in Sydney, they will add some golden designer flair (without going overboard on the gold). $140–$250.
Matt Blatt Laguna Planter
Tribal marries industrial with this raw concrete look planter. The timber legs help bring it into the spotlight of visitors while keeping your plants out of reach of any furry family members. $48.
Bunnings Scheurich Espresso Cream Glazed Indoor Pot
Made in Germany from high quality ceramic, this is another two-tone style that avoids bolds or metallic. The earthy, espresso tone morphs into a clean white that will suit anything from Hamptons to Provincial. $20.90.
Pop & Scott Indigo Folk Nico Pot
Made from lightweight plaster and fibreglass, these pots are hand-painted using eggshell acrylics to create a subtle, not-too-glossy look. The navy floral pattern gives off a modern Mediterranean vibe, and understated shape will fit any plant. $145.
With sky-high property prices the new norm, particularly in our major cities, home ownership is increasingly out of reach for many people. So, how does one make a rental feel like a home?
Command hooks Made for renters, as you don’t have to ask your landlord permission to use them, Command make a range of no-hole, picture hanging hooks and Velcro strips that won’t leave unsightly holes in the wall nor peel paint when you move on. Available in a variety of sizes and with the ability to hold up to 3.6kg, these plastic hooks and strips are ideal for hanging pictures in a rental – a gallery wall being the obvious choice for nesting types. There’s nothing that makes a house feel like a home more than a wall displaying your favourite photographs, prints and wall hangings.
Create a sentimental gallery wall with removable Command hooks. Image: Hunting for George
Indoor plants Currently a massive trend, indoor plants (coupled with gorgeous pots) really do wonders for any interior space. Plus, when you move you can always take them with you.
Indoor plants can transform a space. Image: Pop & Scott
Paint Some landlords will allow you to repaint provided you paint the walls back to the original colour before you depart. Some are even happy for their tenants to make permanent changes though will usually want to sign off on the colours beforehand. A bit of an undertaking, you could simply pick out a few areas to paint instead for that personal touch – the front door is the obvious pick.
A simple customisation solution – this pink door adds instant personality. Image: Dulux
Lighting It’s amazing the difference that lighting improvements can make. Swap out your outdated ceiling lights for a more stylish alternative – IKEA make a variety of affordable paper and drum shades. Alternatively, investing in a couple of statement table and floor lamps is always a good idea as you can take them with you when you leave. And for alfresco areas, LED string lights look rather magical.
Inexpensive pendant lights work wonders. Image: IKEA
Removable wallpaper & wall decals While the market is flooded with a variety of wall decals and removable wallpaper, varying in quality, there are some brands doing great things. No longer simply available in shiny finishes, there are plenty of realistic-looking textured ones to choose from now. A great alternative to paint, removable wall decals and wallpaper allow you to customise your rental without leaving a trace of it when you move out.
Rugs A large area rug is ideal for covering unsightly carpet or other undesirable floor coverings – ugly tiles and lino spring to mind. Plus, they’re great for demarcating zones within the home and you can transport them to your next home too.
Portable shelving A fabulous alternative to a built-in bookcase, portable shelves (ladder ones are currently on trend) are the perfect spot for you to display your favourite tomes and trinkets – both of which will make your rental feel homelier.
Knobs & hardware Sometimes a simple change of door handle or knob can make a huge difference to the overall look of a space – especially on kitchen cupboard fronts or wardrobe doors. Just remember to take the old ones with you when you are purchasing replacements to ensure they are compatible. You can simply change them back when you leave.
Not since the seventies have we seen such a huge interest in indoor plants. From fiddle leaf figs to monstera, rubber and money trees, it seems everyone is getting their hands dirty these days. But many people lack the smarts to keep their plants alive. “Most people are not born with a green thumb but with a little patience and some schooling up, it’s pretty easy to get a handle on plant care 101,” says Elle Prince, co-founder of online plant store Plants In A Box.
Notably, eBay has seen a spike in plant sales of late with total listings of fiddle leaf figs up by 100 per cent, rubber plants up 44 per cent and Philodendron listings up by a whopping 300 per cent.
“Like most things, plants go through trend cycles and we are witnessing a huge demand for indoor plants again. It was uber cool in the 70’s and I think in modern architecture we are seeing more homes being styled and modelled on 70’s concepts, so I think it’s natural that indoor plants have made a comeback,” says Elle.
Water Surprisingly, it’s mostly over and not under watering that rings the death knell for indoor plants. “Over watering is the biggest killer of indoor plants. Do not over water! You can start out by watering once every five to seven days in the warmer months and once every seven to 10 days in the cooler months. This seems to suit most plants,” says Elle.
And on the topic of hydration, indoor plants favour a moist environment — bathrooms in particular. “Dry climates aren’t helpful — humid is better.”
Light Given there are so many different indoor plants, each with their own light requirements, it can be difficult to know where exactly to locate your plants. “Darkness is really not helpful. Place plants in locations where there is plenty of light but not necessarily direct sunlight,” says Elle.
Soil “Less is more with these guys. Indoor plants require a good quality, well-draining potting mix with slow release fertiliser, don’t be a cheapskate and go buy the good stuff!” says Elle. I have to say that I couldn’t agree more — my own indoor plants flourished after being fertilised.
Kill-proof plants While it’s possible to kill any plant with a combination of over-water, poor light or nutrient-depleted soil, some are much more hardy than others. “The toughest plants around are Philodendrons, Ficus Elastica rubber plants, Parlour Palms, Dieffenbachia or ‘Tropic Marianne,’ Calathea Ornate Sandriana, Zanzibar Gem, Spathiphyllum and the Peperomias. But foremost, you’ve got to enjoy it! Love it and they’ll love you back. It’s really not as daunting as you think,” says Elle.
Alocasia lowii or ‘Polly Amazonica’ is Ella’s all-time favourite indoor plant. “I have a soft spot for this guy as this was my first introduction to the indoor plant world,” says Elle.
And for those of us who’ve had their fill of fiddle leaf figs (not me, I still love them!), Elle’s pick for the next big thing is the Pilea Peperomiodes. “This little Chinese money plant is so hot right now because he takes way too long to propagate and no-one has the numbers of this guy in Australia yet. But shhh, it’s coming to our Plants in a Box store in 2017!”
Light
