There’s something about a few leafy green plants in a kitchen that instantly makes the room feel more inviting. Whether it’s a trailing pothos above the sink or a pot of basil on the windowsill, houseplants bring softness, colour, and a sense of calm to what is often the busiest room in the home.
Why kitchens and plants work so well together
Kitchens tend to get good natural light and have a bit of warmth and moisture in the air — ideal conditions for a wide range of houseplants. Plus, when the rest of your kitchen is all sleek cabinetry and clean lines, a splash of greenery adds a lovely contrast.
Plants can also soften up corners, fill awkward gaps, and help make open shelving or windowsills feel styled but not staged.
Not sure where to start? Here are a few easy wins:
1. Trailing plants above wall cabinets
If you’ve got space above your wall units, a trailing plant like devil’s ivy (pothos) or string of hearts can drape beautifully without needing much light. Pop them in a basket or ceramic pot and let them do their thing.
2. Herbs by the window
Basil, parsley, mint, and rosemary love a sunny sill and are handy to have right there when you’re cooking. You don’t need a fancy herb planter – even old jam jars will do. Just make sure there’s drainage.
3. A statement plant on the floor
Got an empty corner? Try a large potted plant like a fiddle leaf fig, a monstera, or a tall snake plant. They love indirect light and can handle the occasional bit of neglect. Just avoid putting them too close to heat sources like ovens or radiators.
4. Small pots on open shelves
A couple of small succulents or a spider plant in a little ceramic pot can lift open shelving without taking over. It’s a great way to add a bit of personality if you’re not one for clutter.
5. Hanging plants from the ceiling
Got a blank wall or corner? A hanging plant in a macrame hanger adds softness and draws the eye up. Just make sure it’s somewhere you can still water it easily!
A few tips for success
- Watch the light: South-facing kitchens will suit sun-lovers like herbs, whereas lower-light kitchens are better for shade-tolerant plants like ZZ plants or peace lilies.
- Avoid placing plants near heat or steam sources: They won’t thank you for a home directly above the hob or too close to the toaster.
- Keep it simple: One or two well-placed plants can make more impact than trying to squeeze greenery into every spare inch.
It’s not just about aesthetics…
Plants can help with air quality, mood, and general wellbeing — and they make your kitchen feel more lived-in and less like a showroom. If you’ve spent time and money creating your dream kitchen, adding a little life can be the finishing touch that makes it feel like home.
If you’re planning a kitchen renovation and want to include elements like open shelving or built-in plant space, I’d love to help you design something that feels just right for you. Book a free consultation and let’s chat.
Have a good week!
Vicky
