The Art of Houseplants

10 tips from a designer about styling your indoor green spaces

- MELISSA LO

THE PRINCIPLES OF DESIGN ARE RULES that designers use in combination to create a visual that is effective and aesthetically pleasing. Typically used in the art and design world, these principles and their relationship with each other work together to create a sense of harmony and cohesiveness.

As a designer, I practice and apply these principles when styling plants in the home. I've found so much joy in being inspired by nature and injecting elements of the earth and bringing them right into my living spaces. These principles have become an everyday part of life and have developed and shaped my personal style and taste as I continue to transform every nook into a relaxing green retreat.

Use one, several or as many principles as you see fit, keeping the rules in mind when shopping for plants or as you are styling the home. Below are my top design principles for styling your green spaces.

1. Think about hierarchy.

Also known as emphasis or focal point, hierarchy implies importance in a visual arrangement. When combining plants in a group, rank each by its characteristic feature in descending order, with your focal point having the highest ranking. Hierarchy can be reinforced through contrast in proximity, size, color, texture and shape.

2. Choose plants and pots with various textures.