In this article, we’ll show you the role of hanging houseplants in biophilic design and how to best incorporate them into your space. We’ll also introduce you to four low-maintenance hanging plants that can be great design elements even with limited light.
What are hanging plants?
Hanging houseplants are potted plants that can be suspended from vertical surfaces. Their vines grow downwards, following gravity. These plants are perfect for creating living curtains, which we’ll focus on in this article.
Hanging plants can also be an excellent part of biophilic office design. Biophilic design is an approach in architecture and interior design that aims to connect people with nature. For offices, a green, biophilic approach means bringing elements of nature into the building to enhance our connection to it. This includes natural light, plants, and organic materials (unfinished wood, real stone, etc.). Through biophilic design, architects and designers bring the healing power of nature into urban office environments, making them more pleasant for employees. In our detailed guide to biophilic design, you can learn more about the concept.
What is the best place for hanging houseplants?
Hanging plants can be suspended from ceilings or walls or placed on shelves to create a unique look that brings a piece of nature indoors. One of the most popular spots for hanging plants is in front of a window or wall to create a green wall or curtain.
What Are the Benefits of Hanging Plants in the Office?
Without plants, workspaces can quickly feel stuffy, cramped, and impersonal. This applies to a cozy small office of a startup as well as the expansive open-plan office of a corporation that spans multiple floors.
However, finding space for a plant concept can sometimes be challenging. In such cases, we recommend vertical installation of plants. Many companies don’t consider this at first, but it’s a great option when the available space is relatively small. For example, you can transform a white wall into a vibrant green wall by attaching various hanging plants to it.
+ Hanging office filter direct sunlight
Hanging plants can also be placed directly in front of windows to create a living curtain. This can be advantageous on hot, sunny summer days as the plants can reduce direct sunlight entering the office. Thus, hanging plants are not only decorative but also provide useful shade. You can also use these plants to visually separate workspaces, creating a pleasant working atmosphere.
Every office has its own lighting conditions. In some, like the Microsoft Switzerland office in the Circle in Zurich, there are window walls that let in a lot of light. In such buildings, it’s especially useful to use plants as natural curtains to temper the sunlight.
+ Houseplants improve mental health and enhance cognitive performance
Studies show that a connection to nature, even if it’s just a plant on your desk, positively impacts mental health and psychological well-being. Our well-being is closely linked to our environment, and it’s proven that we can relax better and reduce our stress levels when we’re in nature.
+ Plants improve indoor air quality and contribute to healthy respiratory systems
Plants filter pollutants from the air and increase humidity – both factors that positively affect the respiratory system. Especially in winter, plants can reduce the frequency of infections and sick days. Learn more about how plants influence air quality.
Do hanging houseplants also have disadvantages?
- Caring for hanging plants can be more demanding than for other houseplants
Hanging plants may need to be taken down for watering and fertilizing and then hung back up. A ladder or an automatic watering system can make this task easier.
Three Low-Maintenance Hanging Plants
1. Aeschynanthus rasta
The “Lipstick Plant” is fascinating to look at. Its name comes from its bright red flowers, which create a striking contrast with the green leaves. And here’s a pro tip: if the office maintains a stable temperature year-round, this beauty can bloom throughout the year.
2. Philodendron scandens
The original Philodendron is dark green, but the 'Brazil' variety is light green with a yellowish undertone. Philodendron Scandens is robust and fast-growing, making it a great element of any plant concept
3. Scindapsus pictus 'Trebie'
Scindapsus pictus 'Trebie' is a stunning hanging plant that makes a great addition to any indoor space. Its leaves are unique, with silver spots that strongly contrast with the bright green veins. This Pothos is sure to catch the eye wherever it is placed.
Step by step guide to creating your own plant curtain
1. Choose the right green plants – Consider the amount of light available, as well as how much time you’re willing to spend on maintenance and watering.
2. Hang your curtains – Measure your wall space and cut lengths of string according to that measurement. Hang the strings from your wall with screws or hooks.
3. Tie the potted plants onto each length of string – Securely tie the potted plant onto each length of string using a fishing line or wire so that it hangs without tipping over or slipping off.
4. Water your plant curtains regularly – Make sure you water your plants regularly according to their needs so they stay healthy and vibrant!
5. Trim and care for them as needed – Regularly trim away any dead leaves or stems to keep your curtains looking neat and tidy. Additionally, check for any pests or diseases that may be affecting your plants, and treat them accordingly so they remain in optimal health!
6. Or get personalized biophilic design concepts and greenery help to take care of your new office jungles.
If you are interested in other interesting vertical greening applications, visit our project page or learn more about biophilic design.
This article was brought to you by our marketing representative Lala Rud with the support of the Greenery specialists from Oxygen at Work
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