Decorating with plants has something of a fashion moment, and it’s no wonder – the confinement of the pandemic has prompted us all to find ways to bring nature indoors and create inspiring, refreshing, colorful designs that have been hailed from afar places are inspired.
The quintessential paradise, the palm tree motif, whether in a cheerful leaf repeat, a classic toile interpretation or a lush foliage scene, always brings a room to life – that’s why we asked our decorating editor to share just how fabulously decorating plants could be in your interior design be.
Decorate with plants
Anyone looking for decorating ideas with a bold yet easy-to-live appeal should consider decorating with plants. More modern than a floral room decor, botanicals also provide a toned down look, while sticking to mostly green or neutral color palettes. Smaller repeat patterns suit more traditional spaces, while maximalist decor fans will love the more exuberant take on the botanical decor theme.
1. Create a feature wall
(Image credit: Future/Adrian Briscoe/Olivia Gregory)
Looking for living room feature wall ideas? A wall with a vibrant banana leaf motif can be an eye-catching addition to a calm, neutral, modern open-plan space like this one. With so many floor to ceiling windows, it’s a lovely way to connect with the nature beyond.
Banana Leaves Wallpaper, Mind the Gap. Phoenix Table, Tom Faulkner.
2. Create a leaf decoration with fabric
(Image credit: Manuel Canovas)
This eye-catching sketch of lush palm trees in vibrant shades of green and blue will always be the star of the show. When you decorate with plants, you can use them in small but effective ways to emphasize a scheme – as seat covers or curtains.
Chair and Curtain in Malacca on the Prairie, Manuel Canovas. Bespoke Chair, Kingcome Sofas.
3. Bathe a bathroom in plants
(Image credit: Future/Chris Everard/Alyce Taylor)
Looking for traditional bathroom ideas – with a modern twist? A palm tree print is ideal for bringing a tropical paradise feel to the bathroom, as exemplified by this signature wall of trees intertwined with floral blooms and bamboo trunks. The subtle blush-pink shade is both uplifting and relaxing.
Bamboo Garden Dusty Pink Wallpaper, Linwood.
4. Go for a subtle approach with neutral tones
(Image credit: Arte)
If you’re looking for neutral room ideas, a subtle way to incorporate the tropical motif, this wallpaper depicts Greek scenes in a neoclassical style reminiscent of a toile de jouy. The neutral color scheme is the perfect backdrop for a tranquil bedroom concept, with a soft toning palette of textured linens and natural wood.
Le Mythe wallpaper in sand, Arte.
5. Conjure up the tropes with a maximalist scheme
(Image credit: Future/Adrian Briscoe/Olivia Gregory)
Another idea with wallpaper ideas is to use a large format sheet directly above the dado, with the area below being in a complementary contrasting texture or material. The white of the print background and the neutral colors provide a fresh and clean look.
Hinson Palm Green Wallpaper, Scalamandré at Turnell & Gigon.
6. Arrange plants in the kitchen
(Image credit: Future/Simon Bevan/Claudia Bryant)
Even kitchen backsplash ideas can be botanically covered. Leaf designs translate beautifully into more unusual palettes – so there’s no need to stick with green if you want a more neutral look. The oversized botanical here in soft pink-brown tones makes an impression, while its size allows the room to feel more expansive.
Garden of Serica Wall Covering in Mallow, Anna Glover. Signature encaustic tourmaline flooring, Amtico.
7. Serve with spring greens for a fresh feel
(Image credit: Future/Chris Everard/Sally Conran)
Green room ideas are of course very suitable for decorating with plants. A delicate cartouche motif wallpaper is a classic choice – mixing it with more modern fabrics in greens and whites keeps the look fresh.
Rousseau wallpaper in Old Olive, Cole & Son. Toby’s sofa, William Yeoward. Nile & York cushion fabric selection at The Fabric Collective.
8. Create a vintage look with pastel shades
(Image credit: Future/Damian Russell/Ali Brown)
Expressive, painterly pastels transport you to a 1950s hotel terrace.
Sunlounger, McKinnon and Harris; Cushions in Rainforest Rabble in Sherbet, Linwood. Curtain at Sedona 3927 0135, Casamance. Impasto Magenta Wallpaper, Designers Guild. Fairground vinyl floor, Atrafloor.
9. Create a retro vibe with dark neutrals
(Image credit: Cole and Son)
Inspired by the stunning landscape of South Africa, this wallcovering features the feathered crowns of hoopoes hiding among lush fronds and foliage. Paired with elegant furniture and punctuated by arched white shutters, the pattern looks rich and intricate without overwhelming the space.
Olive, Chartreuse and Fuchsia Hoopoe Leaves Wallpaper on Cream, Cole & Son.
10. Conjure up a modern look with bright colors
(Image credit: Future/Jake Curtis/Melinda Ashton Turner)
For those who want to indulge in a love of color and pattern, this whimsical palm tree design serves as an exuberant bedroom decor with its deep sunset pinks and fresh green tones. Simple linens and minimal decoration keep the look balanced.
What colors go with plants?
Botanicals are usually designed in shades of green or natural, so it’s best to choose colors that would naturally complement those colors outdoors – from whites to browns and every spice tones in between. Other shades of green—whether lighter or darker—work as well, creating a rich, layered look that’s bold and inviting.
Is decorating with plants trendy?
Decorating with plants is really on trend right now – with maximalist motifs becoming more popular than classic floral designs or smaller repeat patterns as people become more adventurous with their home decor.