Houseplants are an inexpensive way to improve your home and breathe (literally) new life into your décor. Plants such as ivies, spider plants, lilies, palms and ferns act as filter, removing impurities from the air, leaving the environment fresher. They also balance the humidity levels of the room they are in – air that is too dry can make you and your family susceptible to colds; air that is too moist can make the space feel “clammy” or uncomfortable. Just like an area rug or wall-to-wall carpet, plants can absorb sound, reducing noise pollution and the negative effects of echoing sounds from harder surfaces. Sound wise, houseplants can make a room more livable by diffusing harsher tones and pitches. The benefits of having plants around the house are numerous.

Adding plants to a living room, family room or dining area, not only gives your home a welcoming vibe it also introduces some “life” into your living spaces. Here are some suggestions for decorating with houseplants.

Hang Plants Up

Hanging plants from the ceiling will help make the ceiling appear higher. Especially if you place a hanging planter directly in front of a window, it can help create a sense of privacy.

Park Houseplants in a Corner

Put plants in a corner of the hallway or entryway to brighten up “dead space.” They also create a natural focal point in the hallway or foyer, definig the space and making the area more attractive.

Group plants together

Use an accent table or a novelty shelf unit like the Cooper Classics Cordova Stacking Shelves to display a group of plants. It will add texture and visual interest to the room, particularly if they flower at different times. When assembled in one area, it also creates the illusion of bringing the outdoors in. 

Make Plants do Double Duty

Not just another pretty plant, select ones that have a specific function. An aloe vera plant is great for cuts and burns. Or how about designating one windowsill in your dining room or kitchen as a “herb garden?”