Incorporating plants into your living room enhances your space’s aesthetic appeal and contributes to a healthier and more refreshing environment. From improving air quality to creating a calming ambiance, plants have the power to transform any room. Whether you have a spacious living room or a cozy nook, there’s a plant styling idea for every space.
This blog post will provide you with 27 living room ideas featuring plants, each carefully designed to inspire and guide you toward creating a lush, vibrant, and personalized living area. We’ve broken down the tips into two parts to make it easier to digest.
1. Create a Cozy Corner with a Statement Plant
One of the easiest ways to bring plants into your living room is by creating a cozy corner filled with a statement plant. Choose a plant that can serve as the focal point of the space, such as a towering fiddle leaf fig or a lush monstera. These large plants can instantly breathe life into any corner of the room.
Practical Advice:
- Position the plant in a well-lit corner where it will have enough space to grow.
- Pair the plant with comfortable seating options like a cozy armchair or a small sofa, making the space inviting and relaxing.
- Consider adding a textured jute rug or woven baskets to enhance the natural, earthy vibe.
This idea works particularly well in larger living rooms, where the plant can truly stand out. If you’re in a smaller space, opt for a mid-sized plant like a rubber tree or bird of paradise.
2. Use Floating Shelves to Showcase Small Plants
For those with limited floor space or looking to add an extra design element, floating shelves can be an ideal solution for displaying plants. A series of small pots featuring plants like pothos, succulents, or snake plants can create an intriguing and stylish display. Floating shelves allow you to maximize vertical space, which is particularly useful in apartments or homes with limited square footage.
Practical Advice:
- Arrange plants in groups, with trailing plants hanging down for visual interest.
- Mix and match pots with different textures or colors for added charm.
- Make sure the shelves are mounted at different heights to create a sense of movement in the room.
This approach helps maintain the open feel of a room while still providing plenty of greenery. Plus, it’s a great way to bring plants into spaces that typically don’t have room for large floor-standing plants.
3. Mix and Match Different Planter Styles
Sometimes, a variety of planter styles can help elevate the beauty of your plants. Think of mixing traditional terracotta pots with sleek ceramic designs, metallic planters, or natural wooden pots. By combining a range of materials and finishes, you can create an eclectic, personalized look that feels cozy yet contemporary.
Practical Advice:
- Select plants with different leaf shapes and colors to pair with diverse planters. For example, a fiddle leaf fig in a modern white ceramic pot or a rubber tree in a gold planter can make an attractive contrast.
- Group plants in clusters to showcase the contrast of different planters while keeping the aesthetic cohesive.
- If you’re in a minimalist space, go for uniform pot styles but vary the size for a dynamic effect.
Mixing planters also allows you to express your personal style while showcasing the beauty of your plants.
4. Go Vertical with a Living Wall
A living wall is a stunning, plant-filled installation that can cover an entire section of your living room wall. This vertical garden idea is perfect for those looking to make a bold statement. Whether you opt for a professional system or a DIY approach, a living wall creates a dramatic impact that integrates greenery into the room seamlessly.
Practical Advice:
- Choose plants that thrive in vertical spaces, such as ivy, ferns, and trailing plants like string of pearls.
- Consider building your own vertical garden with wall-mounted planters or hanging pocket planters.
- Install a drip irrigation system to keep the plants hydrated and healthy.
A living wall can help define a space while promoting a sense of tranquility, making it an excellent choice for living rooms or lounges where you relax and entertain guests.
5. Hang Plants from the Ceiling
Hanging plants are a trendy way to add greenery without using valuable floor space. Ceiling-mounted plants, especially those in decorative macramé plant hangers, can bring an airy, bohemian touch to your living room. For a stylish look, consider using plants like ferns, pothos, or philodendrons that naturally cascade down.
Practical Advice:
- Hang a mix of small and medium-sized plants at varying heights for a layered effect.
- Use natural materials like macramé or rope to create a boho-chic vibe, or opt for sleek, modern holders to fit a contemporary aesthetic.
- Ensure that the ceiling hooks are secure enough to support the weight of the plants.
Hanging plants not only save space but also create a unique focal point in the room, drawing attention upward and adding visual interest.
6. Create Symmetry with Paired Plants
If you’re a fan of symmetry, this idea is for you. Place two identical plants on either side of a central element, like a fireplace, TV stand, or sofa. For example, two large snake plants or twin dracaenas placed in matching pots can create a sense of balance and order in the room.
Practical Advice:
- Choose plants that have a similar size and shape for a harmonious look.
- Position the plants symmetrically around other furniture to tie the room together.
- Don’t forget to pick pots that match in color and style, whether it’s sleek black ceramic or natural terracotta.
Symmetry can give the room a polished, well-coordinated look, especially in more traditional or modern interior designs.
7. Use Floor-to-Ceiling Windows to Highlight Tall Plants
Large windows are an excellent opportunity to display tall, statement plants. With natural light streaming in, plants like palms, rubber trees, or bamboo can thrive in the spotlight. Not only will the plants benefit from the sunlight, but they’ll also become a striking feature in the room.
Practical Advice:
- Place taller plants near windows or glass doors to allow them to soak up the light they need.
- Use plants that can grow tall and wide, such as a bird of paradise or a giant peace lily.
- If space allows, consider grouping plants together by the window to create a mini indoor jungle effect.
Floor-to-ceiling windows are a great way to maximize your plant’s potential, as the natural light enhances their growth while adding an open, airy feel to your space.
8. Combine Plants with Boho-Inspired Décor
If you’re a fan of the bohemian style, you’ll love the way plants blend into this eclectic, laid-back aesthetic. Incorporate a variety of plants, from hanging macramé planters to floor-standing trees, along with boho décor like woven rugs, textured pillows, and vintage furniture. The result will be a cozy, earthy living room filled with both character and life.
Practical Advice:
- Use plants like pothos, ferns, or snake plants, which have a wild, carefree vibe.
- Incorporate rattan or wicker furniture, layered textiles, and ethnic-inspired accents for a true boho look.
- Don’t be afraid to mix and match patterns and textures to create a relaxed yet inviting space.
Boho-inspired décor and plants are a perfect match, creating a space that feels natural, earthy, and full of personality.
9. Add a Pop of Color with Flowering Plants
For those who want to add a splash of color to their living room, flowering plants can be an excellent choice. Orchids, anthuriums, and peace lilies bring both greenery and vibrant blooms that instantly brighten the room. Whether you choose a single statement plant or a collection of smaller flowering plants, they can transform your living room into a lively, colorful oasis.
Practical Advice:
- Place flowering plants in spots where they’ll get plenty of indirect light, such as near windows or under a skylight.
- Consider using colorful planters that complement the flowers, creating a vibrant contrast.
- Choose plants that bloom seasonally or year-round, depending on your preference for consistent color.
A pop of color from flowering plants adds a joyful touch to your living room and can complement the other design elements in the space.
10. Use Wicker Baskets as Stylish Planters
Wicker baskets offer a timeless, rustic charm that pairs beautifully with plants. Instead of using traditional plant pots, consider placing your plants in woven baskets for a natural, earthy feel. Wicker baskets work especially well with larger plants like fiddle leaf figs or small trees.
Practical Advice:
- Choose a basket size that suits the plant’s root ball—too small a basket will restrict growth, while too large a basket may look out of place.
- Opt for natural, neutral-toned baskets to keep the look cohesive and grounded.
- You can line the basket with a plastic liner to ensure proper drainage.
Wicker baskets add texture and warmth to your living room, blending effortlessly into both modern and farmhouse-style spaces.
11. Create a Mini Plant Garden on a Coffee Table
Your coffee table doesn’t have to be just for books and decor. It can also be a perfect spot for creating a mini garden. Place small, low-maintenance plants like succulents, air plants, or cacti in a decorative tray or small planters on your table for a refreshing touch.
Practical Advice:
- Keep the plants small and low-maintenance to avoid cluttering the table.
- Use a decorative tray or shallow container to group the plants together, making them easy to move.
- Add some decorative rocks or pebbles to the base for a clean, polished look.
A mini plant garden on the coffee table is a simple, stylish way to add greenery without overwhelming the space.
12. Group Plants Together for a Lush Look
When it comes to plants, sometimes more is more. Creating a lush, green area in your living room by grouping several plants together can create a stunning, natural focal point. Choose plants of different heights, textures, and leaf shapes to create depth and variety.
Practical Advice:
- Use plants with different growth patterns—tall plants like palms, medium-sized ones like ferns, and trailing plants like ivy or pothos.
- Arrange the plants in a way that mimics the natural growth patterns of a garden.
- Use different-sized planters to add variety and visual interest.
Grouping plants together allows you to create a jungle-like atmosphere, adding life and vibrancy to the room.
13. Use a Plant Stand to Elevate Smaller Plants
If you want to add height variation to your living room, plant stands are a fantastic solution. Whether you choose a multi-tiered stand or individual stands for smaller plants, this method helps to create a dynamic look that draws the eye upward.
Practical Advice:
- Select stands that complement the rest of your furniture, from sleek modern stands to rustic wooden ones.
- Group multiple plants on a single stand for a more organized, cohesive look.
- Use stands to create a visual flow from the floor up to larger plants, which helps to open up the space.
Plant stands are great for elevating smaller plants and adding structure to your greenery display.
14. Add Drama with a Large Statement Tree
For a bold, dramatic statement, consider adding a large plant or tree to your living room. Plants like fiddle leaf figs, rubber trees, or bird of paradise can act as a stunning centerpiece and fill empty corners with style.
Practical Advice:
- Ensure the tree has enough space to grow and doesn’t overwhelm the room.
- Opt for a large, sturdy planter to support the weight of the tree.
- Position the tree near other furniture to create a harmonious, balanced look.
A large statement tree instantly adds drama to your living room, making it a conversation piece that enhances your interior design.
15. Transform Your Entertainment Area with a Green Backdrop
If you love to entertain guests or simply enjoy a cozy movie night, creating a lush green backdrop around your TV area can enhance your living room’s vibe. This space tends to be a central part of your room, and adding plants around it will make the area feel more inviting and relaxed.
Practical Advice:
- Position tall plants like palms, yuccas, or a large indoor tree on either side of the TV stand or entertainment unit to frame the space.
- Consider adding trailing plants on shelves or mantels above the TV for added visual interest.
- Use plants that require low light if your entertainment area is in a darker part of the room.
A green backdrop behind your TV or entertainment center will create a calming atmosphere and reduce the sterility of an all-tech space.
16. Add Greenery to Your Window Sill
Window sills are the perfect place to add small plants like succulents, herbs, or violets. These spaces tend to get a lot of natural light, making them ideal for plants that thrive in sunlight. Plus, they’re usually narrow, so they won’t take up too much space but will still provide a significant visual impact.
Practical Advice:
- Choose plants that can handle direct sunlight, such as aloe vera, jade, or cacti.
- Mix plants with different textures and leaf shapes for added interest.
- Pair the plants with decorative trays or mini planters to keep them organized.
A window sill garden gives your room an airy, light-filled feeling while keeping things low-maintenance and stylish.
17. Create an Indoor Herb Garden for a Functional Twist
Why not add some functionality along with beauty by creating an indoor herb garden? Place pots of basil, rosemary, thyme, or mint near the kitchen or in a cozy corner of your living room. Not only will these plants add a lovely green touch to your room, but they’ll also be ready for use when you need fresh herbs for cooking.
Practical Advice:
- Choose a sunny spot near a window for your herb garden, as most herbs require a lot of light.
- Use small, stylish pots for each herb, and arrange them on a small cart or a shelf.
- For easy access, keep the herbs near your kitchen or dining table.
An indoor herb garden is a wonderful way to bring greenery into your living space while providing a useful and aromatic resource.
18. Create a Green Focal Point with a Plant Bench
For those who want to make plants a central feature of the room, a plant bench is a unique and eye-catching solution. This furniture piece allows you to display multiple plants in one place, creating a lush, green focal point in the center of your living room or near a wall.
Practical Advice:
- Opt for a bench that has multiple levels to showcase a variety of plants of different sizes.
- Choose plants with varying textures and colors to create a visually rich focal point.
- Keep the plants in decorative planters that complement the rest of your décor.
A plant bench serves as a functional yet artistic piece of furniture, bringing both style and natural beauty to your living room.
19. Use Plants to Frame an Entryway or Door
First impressions count, and the entryway to your living room is no exception. Use plants to frame your doorway or create a welcoming entry. A few well-placed plants on either side of the door can set the tone for the entire space, making it feel warm and inviting.
Practical Advice:
- Choose large, symmetrical plants like dracaenas, palms, or fiddle leaf figs to create a balanced look.
- For a more casual vibe, you can mix different types of plants, such as a cactus and a fern.
- Consider incorporating a stylish welcome mat or bench for additional functionality.
Framing the entryway with plants instantly transforms the space and offers a welcoming atmosphere for both you and your guests.
20. Incorporate Plants into Your Coffee Table Styling
Your coffee table doesn’t just have to hold drinks and magazines. Use it as an opportunity to display plants in small, charming pots. A collection of succulents, air plants, or small flowering plants adds texture, color, and life to the center of your living room.
Practical Advice:
- Choose plants with different sizes, textures, and colors to add variety.
- Place them in decorative trays or shallow bowls for a polished look.
- Mix in a few other elements like candles or books to keep the styling cohesive and dynamic.
Plants on a coffee table give your living room a lively, fresh vibe while remaining easy to maintain.
21. Use Plant Stands for Extra Height and Style
Plant stands are a great way to bring height to your greenery. You can use them to elevate plants, making them stand out in the room. This approach works particularly well in rooms with higher ceilings, where you can experiment with taller plant stands to create visual interest.
Practical Advice:
- Choose stands that complement the style of your living room, such as modern metal stands or vintage wooden ones.
- Elevate plants like fiddle leaf figs, peace lilies, or rubber trees for a stunning, floor-to-ceiling look.
- Use different-sized plant stands to create layers and dimension in the room.
Plant stands not only elevate your plants but also enhance the overall design of your living room by creating a sense of balance and sophistication.
22. Create a Serene Reading Nook with Plants
There’s nothing quite like relaxing with a book in a cozy, plant-filled nook. Create a serene reading space by incorporating a comfortable chair or chaise lounge surrounded by your favorite plants. This corner can be your personal escape, offering both visual calm and a refreshing atmosphere.
Practical Advice:
- Choose plants that add to the peaceful vibe, like peace lilies, ferns, or bamboo palms.
- Use a comfortable chair with soft, inviting cushions, and add a reading lamp for extra warmth.
- Place the plants in stylish pots or baskets that match the aesthetic of your nook.
A plant-filled reading nook becomes a peaceful retreat where you can unwind and enjoy some quiet time.
23. Layer Plants in Different Sized Pots
When styling plants in your living room, layering them in different-sized pots creates a dynamic look. You can place smaller plants in the foreground and taller plants behind them, creating depth and visual interest. This technique works well around furniture pieces or in corners of the room.
Practical Advice:
- Start with the largest plants at the back of the arrangement and gradually layer smaller ones in front.
- Use varying pot sizes to create a sense of balance and harmony.
- Don’t forget to consider the plants’ growth habits—some may require more space than others.
Layering plants not only adds beauty but also maximizes your space, making it feel lush and full of life.
24. Bring the Outdoors In with Large Outdoor Plants
For a more tropical feel, consider bringing in large outdoor plants like palm trees, banana plants, or large ferns. These plants thrive in bright indoor spaces, giving your living room an exotic, vacation-like atmosphere.
Practical Advice:
- Choose plants that can adapt to indoor conditions, such as the majesty palm or kentia palm.
- Place the plants in large, sturdy planters that can handle their size and weight.
- Ensure your living room gets plenty of light to help these plants thrive.
Adding large outdoor plants brings a lush, tropical element to your indoor space, offering a refreshing atmosphere.
25. Create a Zen Corner with Plants and Stones
For those who love minimalist décor and a calming atmosphere, a Zen corner filled with plants and stones can create a serene, peaceful vibe. Arrange plants like bonsai trees, succulents, and bamboo alongside smooth stones or a small water feature for a truly tranquil retreat.
Practical Advice:
- Use a simple color palette, focusing on neutral tones like whites, grays, and greens.
- Place plants in clean, simple pots and arrange them in a minimalist fashion.
- Add elements like candles, stone sculptures, or small water features for added serenity.
A Zen-inspired plant corner can bring a sense of calm and mindfulness to your living room.
26. Experiment with Terrariums for a Chic Look
Terrariums are glass containers that house small plants, offering a chic and sophisticated way to display your greenery. These mini ecosystems can add a unique touch to your living room, and their glass enclosures make them perfect for creating a modern, stylish focal point.
Practical Advice:
- Use small plants like succulents, air plants, or moss for a minimalist look.
- Consider adding decorative elements like stones, pebbles, or crystals inside the terrarium.
- Group a few terrariums together to create a stylish display.
Terrariums are an excellent way to add a bit of elegance and interest to your living room while keeping the plants contained and easy to care for.
27. Incorporate Plants into Your Wall Art
Lastly, consider incorporating plants directly into your wall art for a creative and unexpected twist. This could be as simple as mounting plants in a frame or creating a vertical garden wall. It’s a great way to blend nature with art and create a statement piece that doubles as décor.
Practical Advice:
- Use framed planters or vertical garden systems to create plant-based art.
- Choose plants that work well in these
settings, such as ivy or ferns.
- Position the plant art in a central location for maximum impact.
Using plants in your wall décor gives your living room a modern, fresh look, combining nature and creativity in a truly unique way.
Conclusion
We’ve covered 27 living room ideas with plants to help you create a fresh, vibrant space. Whether you’re looking for a cozy, serene corner or a striking focal point, incorporating plants is a great way to enhance your living room’s ambiance. By mixing different types of plants, pots, and accessories, you can personalize your space while adding a touch of nature to your home.
