Succulents, Sage, and Sunflowers: Brightening Spaces with Indoor Plants

Pantone recently announced Greenery -- a bright, cheery, verdant green -- as their Color of the Year for 2017, and I have to admit that I’m completely on the same page. As we move into the new year, we all could use a little bit of life and freshness in our lives and homes! But how, you ask? Let me give you a few helpful hints.



Potted Plants

Adding a potted plant or two to your home is a surefire way of bringing a bit of the outdoors indoors. Don’t be afraid of introducing a tall plant -- it’s a great way to play with height and drama; rubber plants, for example, are a great additions to any space because of their minimal watering and generous wide leaves.

Image of Roy Concrete Stool via furnituremaison.com

 

Hanging Herbs

Plants don’t have to be relegated to the floor or a tabletop -- they can also function as hanging wall art! It gives any room a pop of green and life. I’m a big fan of hanging potted herbs in the kitchen to throw in while I’m cooking, and reusing old jam or mason jars is a great way of keeping everything food-related! Image via camillestyles.com

 

Simple & Subtle Succulents

Succulents (a.k.a. plants like cacti that tend to be thick and fleshy and usually to retain water in arid climates or soil conditions) have become one of the most popular household plants because of their ease of care and striking, unique appearance. They do look great alone, but I prefer them grouped together as a little collection that highlights their similarities and differences. 

Image via framebridge.com

 

Tiny Terrariums

As someone who lives in a tiny New York City apartment, I appreciate anything that’s miniature-sized and could fit in my small space! Terrariums are usually kept in open or sealed glass containers, creating a unique environment for plant growth. They also come in wonderful, orb-like shapes that are perfect for hanging or placing on a coffee table or dresser. 

Image via topista.com

 

Vibrant Vases

Not sure if living plants are the right thing for you? Love a subtle change in scenery every week? Then freshly-cut flowers from your local flower market or florist might be the right choice. I love the delicacy of purple irises and the boldness of a few sunflowers, but pick whatever is right (and seasonal!) for you! 

Image via instagram.com/igorjosif/

  

Whether you’re just looking to add a pop of color to your space or want a simple way to bring life into your home, potted plants, herb gardens, terrariums, succulents, and cut flowers are my go-to solutions. But while the plant is going to be living and breathing in the space, don’t forget to consider the pot or vase it’s sitting in -- a pot is basically another piece of furniture, and another opportunity for some design fun!

 



Kate R.

Kate is a New York-based architect and preservationist, with a love for all things design! 

 


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