Transforming compact projects with the freshness of
plants is a solution increasingly valued by those seeking more comfort and a connection with nature. Even with limited space, it's possible to create green compositions that bring life, style, and even benefits such as
improved air quality. The secret lies in the
choice of suitable species and the
intelligent use of pots, supports, and vertical structures.
Projeto de Paula Neder. (André Nazareth/CASACOR)
In addition to functioning as
decorative elements, plants in
small projects can also help delineate spaces, create focal points, or soften the impact of colder materials like concrete and glass. Next, get to know
species suggestions and tips on how to adapt landscaping to different types of projects.
How to choose plants for small projects
Before deciding which plants to use, it's essential to evaluate factors such as
lighting, ventilation, and the time available for maintenance. Projects with wide windows allow for a greater variety of species, while places with little light require plants that are more resistant to shade. Another essential point is to think about the
growth of the plant over time and the final size it can reach.
Milena Ferrari e Rita Gumieiro - Suíte Mar. A suíte tem conceito natural, sustentável e biofílico e abusa dos materiais que remetem à natureza, para dar um tom mais intimista e proporcionar o bem-estar do hóspede. A vista para o mar foi emoldurada por três amplas janelas que integram o espaço de 26 m² à natureza. Um grande banco de MDF se estende por toda a lateral do espaço, convidando à contemplação da vista por todos os ângulos possíveis. A religiosidade também está no projeto, por meio de intervenções digitais do designer Marcelo Maia em duas obras do artista plástico Nganza. O mobiliário em tons claros e materiais como palhinha, cordas, pedra e madeira natural, além da presença de rendas e cerâmicas, completam a integração entre o ambiente e a natureza. (Camila Santos/CASACOR)
Useful criteria for choosing plants: - Lighting: Observe whether the space receives direct, indirect light, or is predominantly shaded.
- Final size: Prefer species that adapt well to small pots or have controlled growth.
- Ease of maintenance: In compact spaces, low-maintenance plants are the most practical.
- Shape: Hanging, climbing plants, and vertical species help optimize space usage.
Amanda Miranda - Cozinha do Chef - Raízes. Projeto da CASACOR Rio de Janeiro 2023. (André Nazareth/CASACOR)
7 ideal plants for small projects
1. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
With its
trailing growth and easy adaptation to different light levels, the
pothos is an excellent choice for shelves, ledges, and hanging pots. It requires
little care and can be grown in both water and soil.
Jiboia. (Reprodução/CASACOR)
2. Zamioculca (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
Known for its
resilience, the
zamioculca tolerates environments with little light and low watering frequency. Its upright shape and shiny leaves make this plant a great option for corners and small side tables.
3. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
In addition to being a
protective plant according to popular culture, the
snake plant has a vertical growth habit and takes up little horizontal space. It is a species suitable for interiors with low sunlight.
4. Succulents
Available in different sizes, shapes, and colors,
succulents are perfect for
small pots on tables, niches, or window sills. They require little water and enjoy brightly lit environments.
Suculentas suportam sol pleno (Leonardo Iheme/ Unsplash/CASACOR)
5. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Classic and full of movement, the
boston fern works well in
hanging pots. It prefers locations with diffuse light and moderate humidity, making it ideal for well-ventilated balconies, bathrooms, or laundry rooms.
Samambaia-americana. (Divulgação/Divulgação)
6. Peperomia
With
ornamental leaves and a compact size, the
peperomia adapts to different environments and can be grown in small decorative pots. It looks great in winter gardens and on shelves.
7. Rhapis Palm (Rhapis excelsa)
For those who want a plant with a
more robust appearance but is still viable in small projects, the
rhapis palm is an alternative. Its fan-shaped leaves bring
lightness to the project.
Tips for optimizing space with plants
Even with reduced square footage, there are
strategies that help include more plants in the decor without compromising circulation or the functionality of the projects. The main tips are:
Invest in hanging pots and vertical gardens
Hanging pots and
vertical structures, such as wooden panels or trellises, better utilize the walls and ceiling, freeing up floor space.
Projeto de Octavio Meireles e Choque Arquitetura e Design (Projeto: Octavio Meireles e Choque Arquitetura e Design/CASACOR)
Prefer supports of different heights
Using cachepots, benches, and shelves with different height levels creates a
dynamic visual effect, as well as allowing the grouping of several plants in the same location.
Projeto de lez arquitetura. (Júlia Tótoli/CASACOR)
Invest in mini gardens
If there's a little spot by the window,
growing herbs like basil, rosemary, and mint can be a way to combine
functionality and aesthetics.
Cozinha Alecrim. Bernardo Gaudi-Ley e Tania Braida - CASACOR Rio de Janeiro 2018 (André Nazareth/CASACOR)
CASACOR Publisher is a creator of exclusive content, developed by the CASACOR Technology team based on the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. This text was edited by Yeska Coelho. 
