Is Plant Styling Set to Be the Next Big Interior Trend? Experts Reveal 5 Low-Maintenance Options for a Hipper Home

Architectural Digest magazine along with plant-styling posts on Instagram and Pinterest are contributing to the surge in popularity of houseplants — keep reading for an introduction and some easy-to-care-for suggestions to get you started.
We received advice from specialists such as Hilton Carter, the author of The Propagation Handbook, and Tim Wong, the founder of Quest Terrarium – both contributed to selecting the foliage for Hong Kong’s Soho House.

Have you ever entered a room and felt like something was amiss? Despite the current emphasis on trends like vibrant hues, patterned wallpapers, and sustainable elements, interior designers consistently gravitate towards an enduring staple to add that perfect finishing touch to any area: abundant foliage.

Incorporating a bit of green into your living space has never been trendier, with publications such as Architectural Digest and platforms like Instagram and Pinterest showcasing the impact of plants as key elements for home decor.

“For me, incorporating plants into interior design has always been natural. They offer numerous advantages such as air purification, versatile decor options, and eco-friendliness. Our deep-rooted relationship with vegetation dates back generations,” explains American plant designer Hilton Carter, author of multiple publications on this subject, including his latest work titled ‘The Propagation Handbook.’

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“In our fast-paced modern lives, we’ve essentially lost touch with nature—quite directly. Introducing plants into homes can bring vibrancy to these spaces. A flourishing plant within one’s abode signifies that it is a hospitable and supportive setting,” he explains.

Although adding plants to your living area might seem straightforward, the abundance and diversity of available vegetation make selecting an appropriate one more challenging than ever before. Once, easy-to-manage species like snake plants or those from the aroid genus were reliable choices; however, professionals now encourage considering multiple aspects when opting for greener surroundings.

“Priority number one – all plants require several essentials to thrive: sunlight, airflow, soil, water, and attention. Therefore, choosing the right location and determining your level of commitment to caring for a plant is crucial. The last thing you’d want is for it to become a burden,” explains Tim Wong, who founded the plant styling business Quest Terrarium and recently debuted his new site, Quest Plants & Supply.

He suggests beginning with no more than two or three plants. Although many opt for a single standout plant, he appreciates the concept of grouping several together—such as pairing a taller plant with a shorter one, or mixing mediumsized ones with smaller ones—to create an equilibrium.

Wong advises clients to think about the ambiance they wish to achieve through their use of greenery. In a sleek, minimalistic environment, succulents or plants featuring structured or streamlined forms work best, whereas individuals aiming for a free-spirited look might choose tropical or subtropical species like the bird of paradise or beet pepperomia. Additionally, Wong emphasizes so-called “edgy” or distinctive plants, including the Australian bottle tree and the dragon tree (Dracaena marginata), which have become popular choices among his clientele recently.

He advises considering the plant’s form and growth pattern. For instance, certain varieties spread laterally rather than vertically, making them unsuitable for limited areas.

Not only does the plant enhance your living environment, but it also offers an opportunity for personal expression according to Carter. Homeowners can further infuse their character via decorative elements like planters and pots. On social platforms, aged limestone and terracotta containers have gained popularity, whereas eclectic combinations with vibrant hues bring liveliness into the area.

Carter motivates his clients to explore unconventional options when selecting their types of greenery. He suggests that for individuals hesitant about maintaining live plants, artificial alternatives can be an excellent substitute. Although living-wall installations and moss art pieces are currently fashionable, they often demand significant financial investment and ongoing effort to sustain properly.

Wong enjoys suggesting terrariums because these are simple to care for due to their self-contained ecosystems. Additionally, he promotes air plants like staghorn ferns, which do not need soil and can be attached to pieces of driftwood to create an elegant display.

Ultimately, keep in mind that plants represent an investment and have the potential to endure for a lifetime.

“Consider plants as living entities within your home instead of mere decorations. There’s no need to replace them unless their condition becomes irreparably poor. Some of my favorite plants have been with me for more than a decade. While they may not always look flawless, I appreciate witnessing their robust growth through various settings,” explains Carter.

5 easy-care plants that pack a stylish punch

Snake

Renowned for its rigid, vertical foliage, this adaptable plant has the ability to flourish whether it receives direct natural light or not.

Spider

This indoor plant boasts an elaborate design and is renowned for its ability to cleanse the air and offer health benefits.

Pothos

Ideal for newcomers and dimly lit spaces, this plant can be shaped into different forms and dimensions.

Dragon

The plant’s multicolored leaves make it ideal for those wanting to create a striking impression. Additionally, being a tropical species, it thrives in warmer climates.

Tillandsia

These are commonly referred to as air plants and they can flourish without soil; they’re ideal for damp settings such as bathrooms.