Written by AMULYA MISRA for THE DESIGN COLLECTIVE
Nature has always been associated with health and happiness. There are theories about the direct correlation of plants with mental peace. In a time when stress levels are high and the future is uncertain, it seems inevitable that we would turn to nature to find a balance. While living our daily lives and going outside might still be restricted, we can bring nature to us. Whether you live in mansions or in apartments, there is always room for a little greenery to improve our air quality and provide a sense of tranquility.
Buying a plant that appeals to your aesthetic may be easy but building a garden is more than that. The first step would be to evaluate the space. Look at the area you want the garden to be in. If it’s indoors, the amount of sunlight that filters in through the windows and the purpose of the room need to be accessed.
The next step is the researching and experimenting stage. If you don’t have a lot of time to spare, you need a plant that is low-maintenance. If you’re looking to add a pop of colour to your space, plants such as Bromeliad and passion plant are perfect. We recommend instead of going out and purchasing multiple plants, you begin by taking a small step. Invest in a cactus or a jade plant to see how it fits into the space. This step also allows you to figure out how if the plant can thrive in that space without worrying about its health. Once you are comfortable, you can design and then re-design your garden as you see fit.
A perfect way to do that is with Sascha’s Secret Garden. They produce naturally home-grown plants while implementing a reduce, reuse and recycle concept in their production process. They use rainwater to water their plants and refuse plastic pots. Offering a ‘garden in a pot’ which is quite easy to grow and love, they act as the perfect starting point for anyone who is looking to explore their green thumbs.
Gardens are intimate spaces as they offer opportunities for people to reflect, meditate and calm themselves. Create your own personal garden no matter where you are. From your workplace to your bedroom to your kitchen, you can turn any space into your own personal garden.
In your living room
After spending months being home and looking at the same decor, an easy way to refresh your decor is by bringing in some of the nature inside. This is where you binge watch movies, gather for family game nights and spend most of your leisure time, therefore this space definitely deserves a green update. As plants are good for your mental and physical well-being, having them decorating your space can instantly make it more comfortable and homey. And the best thing? A pop of greenery looks good with any living room style!
Our recommendation: a substantial sansevieria
In your kitchen
Houseplants have been trending these days, not just in the garden but in kitchens too. Not only are they an inexpensive way to spruce up any kitchen, but they can also provide you with herbs. The right plant may also help purify air, increase morale and act as first aid when needed. Plants such as aloe vera, basil, mint, thyme, rosemary or even lemongrass are not only aesthetically pleasing but would have other benefits too.
Our recommendation: a healing aloe vera
In your workspace
Office greenery, also called biophilic design, has been proven to increase productivity and happiness of workers. The positive benefits of having indoor plants on your office desk space or even around the break room can be linked to the efficiency and happiness of employees. Plants are stress relievers so having them around the workspace is a good idea. In a time of a global pandemic, we took on this fun challenge as well in collaboration with Sascha’s Secret Garden!
Our recommendation: a beautiful and durable cactus