Houseplants have become as much a decorating accessory as cushions and art! We spoke to a stylist and a plant expert for their take on styling with them (and keeping them alive!).
“These days, we are so spoiled for choice. You can select from lots of different types and varieties of indoor plants, coming in all styles, shapes, sizes and colours,” says Chloe Warren, founder of online houseplant store, The Greenery Sydney. She almost does plant installations for businesses and homes.
“Tall or short, slim or fat, climbers or trailers, with hints of colour such as yellow, white, pink, purple, and of course green. With such a wide range to choose from, there is a perfect plant for every space. Styling with indoor plants can soften the aesthetic and bring life to a space. Bringing the outdoors in is a great way to create a calming environment and bring us back into connection with nature.”
Angela Reynolds, interior and product stylist at Harmonia at Home, considers plants for decor just as much as furniture, floor coverings, colour palette and homewares. “It would be unheard of for me not to suggest to my clients, that they consider introducing a plant or two (or more, many more!). As I slowly build my own little collection of plant babies in my home, they not only bring me so much joy, they transform a space by bringing it to life. For me personally, they make for the perfect finishing touch.”
Studies show having plants indoors may even increase productivity and happiness!
So, if you’re not an experienced green thumb, what should you start with? Chloe suggests Zanzibar Gem, Sanseveria and Devils Ivy as low maintenance options. Some of the more tropical varieties such as Calathea can be more challenging in an indoor environment as they require higher humidity. Chloe says this can be combatted by placing them under a cloche, which can also make a lovely styling statement.
And move over Fiddle Leaf Fig, there’s a new “it” plant in town: “Trailing plants are definitely on trend right now but if you can get your hands on a rare Variegated Monstera (as well as the many dollars they cost) they are certainly in demand and fast moving to become the most sought after plant,” Chloe adds.
Sydney-based Angela has some tips on where to place your plant babies: “Some of my favourite spots are on open shelving in the kitchen or bathroom, built-in or freestanding bookshelves, the edge of table tops such as a buffet, bedside table, study desk or a console positioned in the entry to a home, or in hanging planters such as the popular macramé ones that are simply perfect for those boho, coastal, vibes.
“They look great on the edge of timber bench perhaps nestled in the front foyer of a home with a beautiful round mirror above, rug underfoot, and a cushion or two on the bench. I also love clusters of plants in varying heights and a variety of pots, positioned on top of a console or buffet, or on the ground to fill a space. You can select sizes based on the space you have to play with and coordinate the pots with the surrounding colours and décor. Play with texture, colour and size.”
If you have a large empty spot, Angela says placing a very large specimen such as a Monstera can create drama and become quite a focal point of a home. Window sills in the kitchen can make the perfect spot for orchids or propagating some new plants.
Shop plants online at The Greenery Sydney