Best Planters For Indoors
Most people underestimate indoor planters’ ability to reshape the scene of their living spaces. These versatile containers serve as one of the most powerful tools in a designer’s arsenal for both esthetics and wellbeing. The planters do more than house our green companions – they actively purify the air by removing toxins and boost our overall health.
Our search for the best indoor planters revealed that the right container can significantly improve a home’s esthetic appeal. The options seem limitless – from large decorative pieces that create stunning focal points to elegant vessels that blend with existing décor. This piece unveils the insider secrets designers use when selecting and styling the best pots for indoor plants. These insights will help you create spaces that look like they came straight from a professional portfolio.
Hidden Gems: Decorative Best Planters for Indoors That Designers Love
Designer-curated spaces showcase unique indoor planters you won’t spot at big box stores. These special containers lift ordinary houseplants into extraordinary focal points. Their distinctive character and artistry make them stand out.
Artisan-crafted ceramic vessels
Hand-thrown ceramic planters stand at the top of artisanal excellence in indoor gardening. Each piece tells its own story instead of being mass-produced. Portuguese artisans create sustainable ceramics using local and recycled clay. The beauty shines through as they hand-finish each piece to create something unique.
These vessels are coveted because of their smart design. Most come with built-in drainage dishes that keep your surfaces safe and let plant roots breathe. To cite an instance, some Pacific Northwest artisans have spent over 30 years making their planter designs better. Their tapered forms with integrated drainage dishes look distinctive yet timeless.
The glazes make these pieces special. The variable finishes create subtle changes that make your plants pop. Some ceramic planters even come with cork pads at the bottom to protect surfaces. This small detail shows how much thought goes into both looks and function.
On top of that, designers love finding hand-thrown planters from local artisans who use traditional wood-firing techniques. This intense process creates stunning textures that mass production just can’t match. These pieces become more precious as time goes by.
Vintage and upcycled containers
Designers know vintage items add instant character to any space. Many of their favorite planters weren’t meant to hold plants at first. These repurposed treasures become conversation starters and give new purpose to forgotten items.
Old galvanized buckets and washtubs from flea markets or estate sales add farmhouse charm as planters. Vintage tin pitchers, sifters, and crocks create beautiful shapes that work well with natural plant forms.
Designers pick these unexpected vessels for smaller plants:
- Vintage teacups and mugs (even chipped ones) work great for succulents or cacti
- Old brass and copper cookware creates a rustic feel with easy-care indoor plants
- Antique toolboxes provide the perfect depth for succulent arrangements
These vintage containers offer more than just good looks. Designers value their history. A container’s journey from its original use to nurturing new life adds meaning to your home décor.
The patina and wear on vintage pieces create character that new items can’t replicate. Designers actively look for containers with stories to tell. An old wheelbarrow on its side or a vintage tree crate can become amazing large indoor planters.
Architectural salvage transformed
The designer’s best-kept secrets are large decorative indoor planters made from architectural salvage. These statement pieces reshape rooms while saving historical elements from being lost.
Old window frames, corbels, and columns find new life as bases for elegant indoor planters. Designers hunt for antique barrels at flea markets that work perfectly for tall, deep-rooted plants. Creative reuse gives these historical pieces a second chance to shine.
Large spaces benefit from these salvaged elements. A huge antique terracotta pot (37 inches high by 26 inches wide) commands attention and grounds a room. Old fountains become striking succulent gardens once their cracks are filled with soil.
These architectural pieces bring unexpected textures and materials into living spaces. Stone garden ornaments, metal elements, and weathered wood add organic, timeworn qualities. Modern interiors look amazing with these contrasting pieces.
Bold designers use large-scale elements like stone garden figures that reach up to 47 inches tall. These statement pieces become room centerpieces. They’re the ultimate designer secret to create spaces that feel both curated and original.
Unexpected Sources for the Best Indoor Planters
Smart plant lovers know the best indoor planters often come from unexpected places. Yes, it is possible to find unique containers far beyond the typical garden center options.
Restaurant supply stores
Restaurant supply stores hide amazing, durable planters in plain sight. These commercial venues stock wholesale containers in shapes and colors of all types that can handle tough conditions.
Restaurant supply planters stand out because they’re built to handle constant sunlight and heavy use – perfect for busy areas in your home. These commercial-grade containers outperform typical retail options and won’t crack or fade after one season.
The range of available styles will surprise you. Sleek modern planters add polish to contemporary spaces. Traditional shapes bring a cozy feel to your rooms. These commercial planters revolutionize entrances and lobbies in restaurants, and they’ll raise your home’s appeal too.
There’s another reason to love them – size options. Restaurant suppliers stock larger vessels you won’t find in retail stores. These make great homes for statement plants or dramatic displays without breaking the bank.
Flea markets and estate sales
Estate sales are a rich source of plants and planters with fascinating histories. Estate sale plants often come with years of careful attention. They’re larger and have more character than new plants from stores.
The value makes these sales worth exploring. Large plants cost nowhere near retail prices, and smaller ones often come in perfectly sized pots. Building your indoor garden becomes much more affordable this way.
To get the best plants at estate sales, remember to:
- Look for pests like mites and aphids on leaves and soil
- Check if plants are root-bound by removing them from pots
- Use fresh soil after buying to give plants extra nutrients
Flea markets and estate sales also offer unique containers with vintage appeal. Old teacups, bread bins, coal scuttles, and watering cans become conversation starters. “Secondhand finds are thrilling — I love to immerse myself in the joy of the hunt and the possibilities of discovery,” notes design expert Emily Chalmers.
Smart shopping matters here. Estate sale prices usually match market value based on condition, so research helps you spot good deals. Watch out for containers without drainage holes – they need careful watering to avoid root rot.
Online marketplaces designers frequent
Professional designers head over to specialized online venues for standout planters, even with many mainstream retailers available. These curated marketplaces showcase pieces you won’t see in regular stores.
Style-focused shops like Terrain, Plantatorem, and West Elm offer modern options. Their collections include ceramic, metal, earthenware, and glass planters that work for everything from succulents to floor plants.
These designer-approved sites often team up with artisans. To name just one example, see handcrafted planters with smart drainage solutions or cork pads that protect surfaces – they look great and work well too.
Prices range widely across platforms. Online estate auctions sell ceramic indoor/outdoor planters at great prices, but check items carefully when they arrive. High-end retailers like Williams Sonoma focus on premium options, with ceramic planters that work well for moisture-loving plants thanks to their breathable, porous nature.
These online sources make designer-quality planters accessible to more people, whatever their location. Finding the perfect size, material, and style becomes substantially easier than searching through physical stores.
Size Matters: How Designers Choose Large Planters Indoor
Large planters can make or break your interior design. Most homeowners don’t realize that proper sizing is a designer’s secret weapon to create stunning spaces with indoor plants.
Scale and proportion secrets
The right size for indoor planters goes beyond just looks. The size of your pot directly impacts plant health and growth. Small pots limit root expansion and nutrient access, which stunts growth. Big planters can be just as harmful because they hold too much water and might cause root rot.
Professional designers look at both room size and plant needs before picking containers. A planter should match the space around it. Bigger rooms or high ceilings need substantial planters to fill vertical space and create balance.
Interior designers stick to these sizing rules:
- Pick pots at least one inch wider than the predicted root system diameter
- Quick-growing plants need containers a few inches wider than their current root mass
- The pot shape matters as much as size – plants need different depths
Most people don’t know how pot shape affects water retention. A short, wide planter keeps more water near the roots than a tall, narrow one of similar volume. This explains why designers give moisture-loving plants like maidenhair ferns wide pots. Tall, narrow planters work better for cacti and succulents that need good drainage.
Statement pieces that reshape rooms
Big decorative indoor planters create instant focal points that change entire spaces. These substantial vessels catch everyone’s eye and set the room’s mood. This works really well in bigger spaces where small pots might look tiny or fade into the background.
Interior designers put large indoor planters in spots that need help. They look for empty corners, dead spaces, or uneven furniture layouts. Empty corners in dining rooms, living rooms, or bedrooms make perfect spots for tall houseplants.
Statement planters do two jobs – they give plants room to grow and add artistic flair to your space. These oversized vessels turn living spaces into lush, captivating retreats. Design experts say picking extra-large indoor planters isn’t just about adding plants – it’s about making a bold statement.
Large planters are incredibly versatile. The best pots for indoor plants blend naturally with different design styles, from rustic farmhouse living rooms to modern offices. Picking planters that match your existing décor creates stunning spaces that show off your personal style.
Material Magic: What Makes the Best Pots for Indoor Plants
Your choice of planter materials can make a huge difference to plant health and home esthetics. These materials shape everything from moisture retention to soil temperature and determine how well your plants will grow.
Beyond terracotta: Designer-approved materials
Ceramic pots now lead the indoor planter market. You’ll find them in endless styles, colors, and sizes that match any décor scheme. While terracotta used to be the go-to choice, designers now explore many other options.
Glazed ceramic stands out for its versatility. These tough containers come in every color and design you can imagine, letting you show off your personal style. For moisture-loving plants, fully glazed interiors stop too much water from evaporating, while partial glazing lets the soil breathe better.
Fiberglass planters look great and work even better. They’re light enough to move large houseplants around, tough as nails, and handle any weather. Your indoor plants can enjoy summer breaks outdoors without damaging their containers.
Metal containers add an industrial touch to modern spaces. They don’t cost much, work great for most plants, and clean up easily. All the same, watch where you put them—metal heats up fast, so keep them away from sunny spots unless you’re growing heat-loving plants.
Sustainable options gaining popularity
More conscious consumers and designers now choose eco-friendly planters. These earth-friendly containers are made from:
- Recycled plastics and natural stone with weather-resistant finishes
- Rice hulls and natural binding agents that biodegrade after use
- Natural materials like untreated wood, clay, and stone
Biodegradable planters keep their shape while you use them but break down into rich organic matter later. So they leave a smaller environmental footprint than traditional options.
Mixing materials for visual interest
Designers love to mix different planter materials to tell visual stories. You might see shiny ceramics next to woven baskets and metallic containers.
Success comes from balancing proportions. Designers suggest playing with different heights, widths, and textures while keeping colors coordinated. Try pairing smooth, simple containers with more natural, textured pieces.
Contrast creates drama—compare heavy concrete or stone planters with light woven baskets to create eye-catching tension. This approach draws more attention and creates a more sophisticated look than matching planters could achieve.
Designer Tricks for Styling Elegant Indoor Planters
Styling indoor planters is a creative art that turns everyday plants into eye-catching design elements. Expert designers use proven techniques to create arrangements that fascinate viewers and boost living spaces.
Grouping strategies
The “rule of three” is the life-blood of professional plant styling. Designers group plants in odd numbers—we used groups of three or five—because they look more appealing than even-numbered arrangements. Natural harmony flows better with odd numbers, unlike even-numbered groupings. This simple number rule makes a huge difference in how your plant collection looks.
Your plant clusters should go in popular gathering spots like living rooms or dining areas. Plants in these spaces grab attention and create a greenhouse-like atmosphere for guests. Groups of plants with similar care needs make maintenance simpler and help tropical varieties thrive in higher humidity.
Pro tip: Mix plants with complementary textures, shapes, and colors to create visual interest. Plants with similar features will blend together instead of making a statement.
Height variation techniques
Different heights add dimension and guide eyes through your space. Ladder shelves, plant stools, and pedestals will lift certain plants to create this effect. This multi-level approach turns flat arrangements into dynamic displays.
The designer formula works best:
- Taller plants belong in back or center
- Shorter varieties fit in front or sides
- Trailing plants soften edges of the arrangement
This positioning will give each plant enough light while creating a pleasing visual flow. Your goal should be a natural, stairstep effect that guides eyes through the arrangement.
Plant and planter pairing principles
Plant and planter combinations create visual balance. Here’s a basic rule: fancy plants with striking patterns or unusual shapes need simple pots. Detailed planters work better with simpler plants to avoid competing for attention.
Your room’s style should guide planter selection for indoor spaces. Quality planters that match your décor will lift the entire space. Containers should match your design style, from bohemian baskets to modern geometric shapes.
Color, material, or design connections make grouped planters look polished. Different shapes add interest—round, square, and rectangular planters create visual rhythm.
Perfect pairs of plants and containers turn simple greenery into sophisticated design elements that boost your home’s character and feel.
Conclusion
The right planters can turn ordinary houseplants into stunning design elements. Our exploration of designer secrets revealed that exceptional planters often hide in unexpected places. Restaurant supply stores and architectural salvage yards hold surprising treasures.
Finding success depends on making thoughtful choices. Your perfect planter should balance size, material, and style that meets your plant’s specific needs. Handcrafted ceramics and repurposed vintage pieces do more than just house plants – they become artistic statements that boost your living space.
You don’t need designer prices or exclusive access to create professional-looking indoor plant displays. Knowledge about proper sizing, material selection, and styling techniques helps you achieve magazine-worthy results. Smart plant grouping, varied heights, and containers that complement both your plants and your home’s esthetic make all the difference.
Looking beyond traditional garden centers for unique planters pays off. Your space will become a carefully curated oasis that shows off your personal style and nurtures your green companions beautifully.
FAQs
Q1. What are some creative ways to style indoor planters? Treat indoor planters as art pieces. Group them in odd numbers, use pedestals for height variation, and create gallery-like displays. Mix different shapes and sizes, and use planters to frame furniture or create focal points in your space.
Q2. Is it necessary to add rocks to the bottom of indoor planters? Contrary to popular belief, adding rocks to the bottom of planters is not recommended. This practice can actually inhibit good drainage and subject plant roots to excess water. Instead, focus on using well-draining potting soil and planters with proper drainage holes.
Q3. What materials are best for indoor planters? Ceramic pots are currently the most popular choice for indoor planters due to their versatility in style, color, and size. Other excellent options include glazed ceramic, fiberglass, and metal planters. Each material offers unique benefits in terms of moisture retention, durability, and esthetic appeal.
Q4. How do designers choose the right size for indoor planters? Designers consider both room dimensions and plant needs when selecting planter sizes. Generally, choose pots at least one inch wider than the anticipated root system diameter. For quick-growing plants, select containers a few inches wider than the current root mass. The planter should also be proportional to the space it occupies.
Q5. Where can I find unique indoor planters beyond traditional garden centers? Look for unique planters in unexpected places such as restaurant supply stores, flea markets, estate sales, and online marketplaces frequented by designers. You can also find distinctive options through architectural salvage yards, artisan-crafted ceramic vessels, and by repurposing vintage items like teacups, bread bins, or watering cans.