International Influence Can Add Color and Warmth to Modern Plant Decor

photo by kudumomo

Choosing a pot for your plant may seem as easy as running down to a Big Box retail store and grabbing the first clay pot that matches your carpet, but think about the excitement and design you can bring to your decor by taking time to choose the “right” container.  You may have to search a little more for the design that suits you, but it will pay off in the end.

Where do you look?

Consider second hand stores, community artisans and craft fairs.  In most communities, there are farms that open to the public, and not only sell the local farm goods, but they may sell unique vessels that make perfect containers for your favorite indoor plants.  Don’t forget the internet with a myriad of web sites tailored to every taste.  There are many new modern pots available to customize your indoor plant presentation.

What do you want to do?

Do you want to use modern bold lines, or soften the structure with elegant lines?  Would you like to add texture or sensuality?   This is all attainable with the container that you choose.  The best part about choosing a modern pot is that you can take an old, dated indoor plant style and bring it into modern times.  The Coleus may scream grandmother’s dusty friend on the windowsill but replant it in a bright colored, modern polyester pot and you’ve got something on fire.

Where can you find inspiration?

Africa With this continent I think of deep colors that reflect traditional African carvings or deep reds, vibrant earth tones and deep lush greens. Rough textures or sporadic contrasting lines come to mind when imagining other possible options for decor. These containers can be contrasted beautifully with the choice of plant. Earth tones can be juxtaposed with variegated foliage or the textured pot can be matched with smooth glossy greenery. Many of the available house plants are from Africa so mixing and matching should be fun and easy.

When I design, I like to think, “where in the world do I want to go today?”

South America This brings to mind flashy reds, oranges and blue hues.I also think of the mix of earthy colors with fiery colors.These designs can definitely light up a room and bring attention to your décor.   The entire plant feature can light up a table top with a bright flowery plant choice. Of course succulents featured with these types of containers can bring out dramatic angles that are a hallmark of Latin design. Again many of our traditional houseplants are from South America, Central America and Mexico so the possibilities of mixing and matching modern pots and plants are endless.

You can give your tired or ignored house plants a modern face lift by changing to modern pots.  You can spice up a corner, with modern materials or you can light up table top with colors.  You can soothe a room with texture or relax a room with hues. Many times when we redecorate a room we ignore revitalizing the flora but this is one of the easiest ways to refresh your living space.

Where in the world are you? How have you brought a “theme” into your home? What local resources do you take advantage of for your plant decor?

Coming Soon: we continue our trip around the world.