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Go green
apartments. Keep in mind that a plant wall
works best in uniform order, so use the same
The benefits of house plants and greenery plant type with similar heights as this will
indoors is twofold. Firstly, plants have air- also give the illusion of a more defined zone.
purifying qualities, absorb CO2 and release
oxygen back into their surroundings, while Similarly, ‘living walls’ use panels of plants
also filtering harmful chemicals. Secondly, grown vertically, either free-standing or
plants have calming effects, helping to attached to walls or trellises. This can
lower stress and boost wellbeing. provide a much-needed greenery boost
Which plants?
If you’re a green-fingered beginner, start
with a fern, cactus, or the tall and thin-
leafed mother-in-law’s tongue. Fig trees
into a home and create a clever dividing
point. In rooms with poor or little natural
light, faux foliage can still create an
interesting look.
Natural materials
and dwarf olive trees thrive in sunny spots,
whereas for dark corners, the likes of the Bringing nature indoors doesn’t only apply
prayer plant, Baltic ivy (a hardy type of to plants. Use materials normally found
English ivy) and asparagus fern (with soft outdoors and make them a part of your
leaves) are the best choice. home’s interior décor. Wood, wicker, rattan
and stone all work well to bring an outdoor
Other easy to care for plant varieties theme inside. A wooden, rustic style ladder
include bamboo, spider plant, aloe vera, can provide a great alternative to polished
succulents, snake plant and peace lily. For wood shelving, for example.
areas with little natural daylight, you can
also opt for faux plants. Of course, while Add natural elements throughout the
you get the visual perks, you don’t get the décor; seashells, jars of sand and bunches
air-purifying benefits. of branches can all make interesting focal
How to style plants
Grouping plants together gives a greater
impact on a space. Stick with the odd
number rule and group plants in threes or
fives. Mix up how you style plants too, using
“As a design element plants are incredibly
versatile. Whether your home is minimal
and clean, or eclectic and busy, plants do
so much to soften and add texture. Think
about them as you would a piece of art or
an ornament, lifting and adding an extra
dimension to the space.
“Design trends tend to work on a cycle
of between 30 to 40 years, so it’s little
surprise that the humble 1970s houseplant
is back with a bang in 2020. The trick is to
a combination of hanging plants, wicker,
cues such as woody incense and fresh
flowers for a floral smell. The same feeling
of being relaxed and free in nature can be
brought into your home by stimulating the
senses.
Outdoor colours
wooden and stone pots to add texture and
interest.
Embrace a natural colour scheme for an
understated, calming look. This can apply
For a minimal uniform look, pick the same to the wall and floor colours, curtains and
variety of plant. But if you want to group furniture. Use green to evoke the earth,
together along a mantelpiece, go for a mix grass and plants, blue for the sky and ocean,
of different heights and styles of plants – and yellow for the sun and flowers. Neutral
mixing up leafy with spikes and hanging tones such as white, cream and beige will all
plants. make your interiors feel more natural, clean
Zone the space
harness houseplant mania in a modern A ‘plant wall’ can effectively divide up the
and contemporary way that enhances our space to help create zoned areas, such as
homes, without it looking dated.” splitting the kitchen from the living room
Read on for Catharina’s tips in full.
points. Imitate nature by adding outdoor
– this is particularly useful for studio or loft
and fresh. Avoid cold, man-made materials
and embrace wood, cork and bamboo
flooring. These feel warmer underfoot and
are a more natural, organic choice.
For more information on Contura,
please visit www.contura.eu