Melbourne-based botanical wares studio Ivy Musehas launched Celestial, its latest collection of locally designed botanical wares inspired by the stars.
Showcasing shimmering colours and uplifting shades, Celestial encourages plant-lovers to look to the stars for a fresh perspective whilst offering them new ways to showcase their leafy friends.
“Given the current climate with so many people isolating at home, we wanted to encourage everyone to take a step back and look at the bigger picture,” says Alana Langan, co-founder of Ivy Muse. “We also wanted to inspire people to make the most of greenifying their space and really connect with nature at home – and have a little fun while doing it.”
The collection features 10 Melbourne-made botanical wares including plant stakes, pots, ceramics and plant stands including the Gemini plant stake and four brand new limited edition colours; Champagne, Cinnamon, Halcyon and Sherbet.
The popular Chubby planters and matching plant stands are now available in two brand new limited edition colours; Sherbet and Halcyon.
The Lily planter and T-Bar Hanger have also been reimagined in limited edition Cinnamon, whilst the Hourglass Plant Pedestal is now available in limited edition Champagne.
Rounding out the collection are the popular powder-coated steel plant stakes Dot, Loop and Peacock. Perfect for taming wild plants like monstera deliciosa and philodendrons, they are now available in two new limited edition colours, Sherbet and Halcyon.
New Ivy Muse botanical wares range inspired by the 70’s
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…
No longer a relic of the 1970’s, houseplants are once again having their day in the sun. Indoor plant aficionado Jennifer Sampson, one half of ceramics business Jones & Co, shares her tips to have your plants looking their absolute best.
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 all started with a handmade lampshade for a friend and then another, followed by another. For a while, Tamara Watts was a visual merchandiser by day and a lamp designer by night. But before long, she left her role at Country Road and in 2009, started Retro Print Revival, a homewares brand that specialises in European Modernist-inspired lamps, planters and vases.
European Modernism includes a wide range of experimental trends that characterised the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th. Tamara’s love for it is evident in her bold and fun creations, evoking the peace, love and music of Mid Century Modernism. “It’s the simple lines, the warm timber, the craftsmanship, and most importantly the beauty and function at the same time,” Tamara says.
This love is also reflected in Tamara’s own personal aesthetic and home. “For those that know me, they know that I live and breathe the style of my brand. It’s not about a trend for me, I have always (and hopefully will always) appreciate the bygone era of the 60s-to-80s. My own home is like stepping back into a time-warp, filled with Mid Century furniture and decor, exposed brick, slate floors, wall hangings, and lots of warm, earthy tones.”
Her creative process is similarly inspired by the things she sees and observes as a freelance stylist and visual merchandiser, constantly saving images of all sorts of objects, textures, images of interiors and colour combinations. Her mix of materials and textures result in simple and beautiful creations that emphasises her pure design approach. “I just design what I love – I’m grateful that other people love it too.”
Supporting Australian production and local manufacturers remains at the heart of Retro Print Revival’s ethos. Since day one, using local suppliers has been at the forefront of Tamara’s business. “Not only does it minimise our environmental impact, but it supports other local creators and businesses. It means the people that buy a RPR product can know they are not just supporting me, but seven other Australian businesses. The pieces are of high quality. I look over every single component and make sure it’s made to the best standard, ensuring they’ll be in homes for many years to come.”
With the explosive popularity of houseplants recently, Tamara says there’s also been an increased demand for planters “Beyond the health benefits of indoor plants, such as reducing stress, and filtering air, it’s refreshing having plants in your home. You can’t go past a great planter housing your favourite houseplant, it’s like giving them their own home.”
And when it comes to lamps, she says their role as decor in homes is sometimes overlooked, with the use and placement of your lighting playing a lead role in how you feel. “I’m a big fan of moving lamps around from time to time to create a whole new look. Remember lamps aren’t just there to look pretty, they’re another light source and can add a sense of warmth and ambience with the flick of a switch.”
Retro Print Revival release a new range yearly, generally consisting of one or two lamp designs, as well as new fabrics and planters. This year, Tamara is exploring the design of a pendant light but her current favourite piece, the Athena lamp, was released last year and named after her third niece! “I love the unique shape and earthy glazes. I had an accidental surprise recently where my ceramicist glazed some in black by accident, and they have proven to be really popular, so I will now be keeping the Athenas in matte black as part of the range.”
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
With the days finally getting warmer (although still as wet as ever down here in Melbourne), it’s time to bring in some brighter tones and botanical prints to the bedroom.
Linen House’s Spring/Summer 2017 ‘Bring the outdoors in’ collection does just that – matching the current trend for indoor plants with a beautiful selection of soft textures, fresh colours and pretty (non-nanna) florals.
To top it all off, they’ve also expanded their range into homewares, including planters, vases, hanging wall art and even crockery. So, without further ado, here are my top picks from the new goodies.
Amiera Quilt Cover & Pillowcase Set
I am an absolute sucker for all things Mediterranean, and this quilted tile pattern with its fabulous bursts of colour hits all the right notes. Like a sunny holiday on the coast of Spain, this is all sorts of wonderful – I want to jump into bed right now and never leave. (From $229.95)
Olympia Quilt Cover & Pillowcase Set
Soft, luxurious, black and white. This screams tribal and oozes Boho with its cotton waffle and tassel trim – an instant addition to my lust list. (From $149.95)
Squiggly Gym Quilt Cover & Pillowcase Set
A shady gum tree with pale pink blossoms highlights the beauty of the Australian bush – just add some eucalyptus oil to your bedside table to complete the look and feel. (From $169.95)
Patti Wall Hanger
An expansion into homewares done well, these hand-made natural rope macramés have delicate long tassels and are oh-so-perfect for adding to your bedroom. ($99.95).
Nimes Linen
Linen; timeless, natural, rustic. Stone washed and soft to touch, these tablecloths, napkins and table runners come in soft shades of blue, rose pink and other neutrals and will suit both casual and formal dining. (From $12.95)
Sela Mug
These artisan-inspired reactive glazed mugs come in blue and pink and will add that earthy uniqueness to your kitchen wares. ($19.95)
Hema Vase
Gold is definitely not old and still very much on trend – add a hint of class and luxe with these glittery vases. (From $19.95)
Kara Planter
This range of textural planters have a raw look about them, and their white on grey patterns will suit anything from industrial to Boho – I already have one gracing my dining table! (From $14.95)
Hippity Hop Quilt Cover
The kids don’t get left out either with this super cute quilt cover. Featuring the softest silver greys and crisp white, this unbelievably adorable design is perfect for boys and girls – all I need now is a kid of my own! (From $69.95)
Whether you’re after Scandi, boho, luxe or a modern twist on the traditional, Linen House has you covered – literally. Head over to their brand new Chapel Street store in Melbourne to see more (or shop online). The new collection will be introduced over the next month.
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.
After seven years on the retail side of good design, aesthetics, function and sustainability, SHELF/LIFE have released their first product, a range of Oslo hanging planters.
Designed by husband and wife, Jess and Brendan Ibbett, the duo had always intended to feature their own work amongst other great independent makers and designers. “Now that we are solely online (they closed their Surry Hills shop in 2013) I have freed up time to focus on being creative again,” explains Jess. “With this renewed focus, the Oslo hanging planters are a new direction for SHELF/LIFE as we get back to what we enjoy most.”
Coming in three designs, the Oslo hanging planters (which retail for $135 each) are made from locally cut and powder-coated metal frames. With all metalwork completed by Brendan by hand, each piece is then passed onto Jess, who hand-assembles and finishes them with natural cotton rope, a hand-stamped/stitched leather tag and a hand-rolled brass ring.
Styling by Vanessa Colyer Tay | Photography by Sam McAdam–Cooper
Olivia’s Fab Four is a weekly post that features my favourite finds on Instagram for the past week. To be in the running, all you have to do is hashtag your product photos #oliviasfabfour and tag them with my handle: @oliviashead.
Here are this week’s beautiful products (clockwise from top left)
While indoor plants used to be seen as a bit uncool, they’re now anything but and the trend for them seems to keep on growing. In response to this, some seriously great pots and planters are springing up on the Australian market, not least these lightweight beauties by Design Twins, launched this week. The good news is, Interiors Addict readers can get $30 off for the next 24 hours!
One of half of the duo, Crystal Bailey, said they’ve been heavily inspired by Scandinavian and industrial design, which is very similar to their popular concrete homewares.
The Design Twins’ initial concrete homewares have been flying off the shelves
“Our favourites are our Dot and Cross pots, because they suit any space of any home and will guarantee life to any room, once a beautiful plant is added. They also have uses for storing toys in children’s rooms, in the pool area for holding towels, or for storing linen in the bedroom.”
The pots are hand painted in Sydney and made from fibre clay, designed for indoor and covered outdoor areas. You should allow four weeks for delivery.
Available in 28 styles and three different sizes, there is sure to be one to suit any interior. The hardest part will be choosing which.
Get $3o off any order of the new lightweight pots for 24 hours only, until 4pm AEDT tomorrow (Thursday 5 February 2015) using the promo code INTERIORS30 at checkout.
Olivia’s Fab Four is a weekly post that features my favourite finds on Instagram for the past week. To be in the running, all you have to do is hashtag your product photos #oliviasfabfour and tag them with my handle: @oliviashead.
Here are this week’s beautiful products (clockwise from top left)
Olivia’s Fab Four is a weekly post that features my favourite finds on Instagram for the past week. To be in the running, all you have to do is hashtag your product photos #oliviasfabfour and tag them with my handle: @oliviashead.
Here are this week’s beautiful products (clockwise from top left)
