Nature Style by Alana Langan & Jacqui Vidal of Ivy Muse
Alana Longan and Jacqui Vidal’s second book Nature Style Cultivating Wellbeing at Home with Plants shows the importance and beauty of houseplants in an interior.
Words: Alana Longan & Jacqui Vidal | Photography: Annette O’Brien
Nature Style: Cultivating Wellbeing at Home with Plants by Alana Langan & Jacqui Vidal from Ivy Muse is a guide for a restorative biophilic home where houseplants are the heroes.
We share an extract from the new book, which includes expert advice on houseplants and how to style them.
HOUSEPLANTS
If you don’t have natural vistas or garden views to enjoy, create your own jungle inside. Houseplants are a powerful element in your toolkit and are often the easiest and most cost-effective way to make a space biophilic, especially when you don’t want to change your interior decoration or furniture. Plants soften interiors and make them more inviting, transforming sterile spaces into sanctuaries. They really are the ultimate indoor accessory.
Houseplants offer a huge number of benefits. They are excellent humidifiers and refresh the air by drawing in carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. Just as nature does, plants can help advance your health and wellbeing. Be warned though, they’re addictive!
Having just one or two plants won’t have much effect. Yes, you heard right – plants should be abundant indoors! As well as choosing a variety of plants that speak to your taste, where possible incorporate plants that are native to your area. Foliage or flowers from your garden or suburb – or even the local florist – are another great way to add a touch of nature inside, although they don’t last as long as potted plants.
Incorporating plants into the home may feel like an overwhelming endeavour, but once you get to grips with the basics, it’s really easy. Anyone can transform their home into a lush, green oasis. Remember, when it comes to plants, the more the merrier. Don’t be afraid to layer up your specimens, and choose plants that you love rather than sticking to any strict style.
Use foliage or flowers from your garden when decorating. Photo: Annette O’Brien
Remember: plants need a suitable environment to thrive, so always pay attention to each plant’s exact needs when assessing its suitability for your home,’ says Alana Langan. Photo: Annette O’Brien
“Don’t be afraid to layer up your specimens, and choose plants that you love rather than sticking to any strict style.”
A bathroom filled with houseplants. Photo: Annette O’Brien
Small details - layer different plants together, rather than sticking to one style. Photo: Annette O’Brien
This is an edited extract from Nature Style Cultivating Wellbeing at Home with Plants by Alana Langan & Jacqui Vidal, published by Thames & Hudson, RRP $34.99. Available where all good books are sold and online.