Bring nature indoors
Comforting, calming and soothing are words often associated with the colours, textures and patterns found in nature. By bringing the elements of nature into your home you can enhance your mood, improve your health and boost your energy.
Flowers, plants and wood induce the feeling of being close to nature. Mix tall and short plants to create a balanced and natural look. Combine terra cotta and glazed planters with metal plant stands to add variety, texture and height. Choose colourful flowers that appeal to your sense of smell and accent your decor.
Light up naturally
Increase the amount of natural sunlight in your home. Scientific reports show that natural light can yield tremendous psychological and physiological benefits. While windows and skylights are commonly used to let sun into the home, replacing solid doors with French-style ones can provide the same effect.
Decorate with natural accents
Flooring and window shades made of natural materials such as wood or bamboo can add balance and comfort to your home. Natural stone or faux stone ceramic tiles accented with area rugs in muted, natural colours also will give your home an earthy feel. Look for green, brown and rustic hues in fabrics, prints, rugs and accessories.
Incorporate sounds of nature. This can be accomplished with an indoor water fountain or by simply playing recordings of your favourite nature sounds
Match your decor scheme
Choose a planting style that matches the decor of your home with carefully selected pots and plants. For a Mediterranean look bright bold plants in tall terracotta pots are perfect - kalancho , bougainvillea, and cacti would look ideal in colourwashed rooms. Pelargoniums (geraniums) are also typical of this region and add vibrant colour to patios.
In a more traditional decor scheme ornate brass containers, decorated glazed ceramic pots and cut glass vases suit the mood of these interiors best. Plant these up with ferns and indoor palms for understated elegance.
Add texture
The South African Alo mitriformis [bottom pic] has strong, sturdy leaves arranged in rosettes with fine yellow-white serrations. Like all succulents it stores moisture in its foliage, stem or roots in the growing season so as to be able to survive periods of drought.
Like all succulents it stores moisture in its foliage, stem or roots in the growing season so as to be able to survive periods of drought. Take care not to overwater or to let water settle in the rosette as this will cause stem rot, black marks on the leaves indicate this. This plant likes full sunshine and should be allowed to overwinter in cool, dry surroundings.
The yucca is dramatic with its clusters of sharp looking leaves and thick stems. It fits well in a minimal interior and against plain backgrounds.
Citrofortunella's common name is calomondin orange. With its dark green foliage and bright orange fruits it adds vibrant colours to a courtyard or walled patio
Large plants with simple impact are needed with the heavy dark furniture and work well with light, fresh decor schemes. Try palms and large-leaved tropical houseplants, particularly philodendrons.
This plant likes full sunshine and should be allowed to overwinter in cool, dry surroundings.
flower and plant association