For those yearning for a peaceful and inviting space within their homes to unwind, the solution need not be an entire room or elaborate setup. Instead, a single corner outfitted appropriately can suffice to build what interior and plant stylist Hilton Carter calls a 'nature nook'—a cozy, plant-filled sanctuary that nurtures mental and emotional wellness.
Known for his expertise in blending green elements with interior design, Carter has appeared in plant-centered television specials on HBO and PBS. Additionally, he has launched a plant and accessory line with Target and authored six books, his latest titled Unfurled: Designing a Living Home. His concept of nature nooks focuses on crafting small-scale natural retreats that enhance both the aesthetic and emotional dimensions of living spaces.
Carter's personal journey toward embracing plants began approximately a decade ago during a period of professional and personal stress. While working as a freelance filmmaker in Los Angeles, he experienced an uplifting change when visiting a garden-themed café in Glen Mills, Pennsylvania. The environment struck him as a sort of vacation, prompting a new connection to plants.
Subsequently relocating to New Orleans, Carter purchased a fiddle-leaf fig tree, which he named Frank, symbolizing a turning point in his life. He committed to nurturing the plant, which he credits with being a catalyst for accomplishments in his subsequent career and personal development.
Currently based in Baltimore with his wife and two children, Carter oversees a large collection of approximately 150 plants at home and an additional 200 in his studio, including Frank, which has grown to an imposing height of 14 feet. Despite this extensive collection, Carter emphasizes that even incorporating as few as five plants can significantly benefit one’s emotional state within a nature nook.
Beginning the process involves selecting the corner or nook that will be transformed. Carter notes there are no prescribed size requirements—it may be as compact or substantial as desired. The key consideration is the level of plant density or 'lushness' one aims to achieve.
Lighting plays a crucial role in the success of these indoor gardens. For example, a corner with a south-facing window receiving approximately eight hours of sunlight daily can support a broad range of plant species that thrive in bright conditions. Conversely, areas with north-facing windows and more limited natural light often necessitate supplemental artificial lighting.
Carter advises cultivating or acquiring grow lights that are aesthetically pleasing and produce appropriate spectrums of light. Some lights emit dual-color tones, others mimic daylight, and some generate warmer hues, all contributing to a space that is both functional for plant growth and welcoming for human enjoyment.
Considering natural light fluctuations across seasons is also important, as the intensity and duration of sunlight may vary significantly. Customers should assess their lighting conditions carefully and seek expert guidance when selecting suitable plants to match those parameters.
Complementing the plant selections, Carter highlights the importance of including a comfortable seating option, ideally positioned to maximize enjoyment—whether facing a sunlit window for warmth or oriented inward for activities such as reading.
Plant choices should be realistic, taking into account one’s ability to provide proper care and maintenance over time. Without consistent attention, the visual appeal of the nook may decline, diminishing its inviting nature.
When tailoring nature nooks for clients, Carter often inquires about meaningful travel or life experiences, such as favorite vacation spots or locations linked to significant memories. Integrating plants native to those locales can evoke positive associations and transport individuals mentally to their 'happy places.'
For example, a combination of glossy burgundy Ficus elastica and the striking Monstera ‘Thai Constellation’ can create a visually engaging and emotively satisfying setting. Alternatively, mimicking the environment of the Pacific Northwest might involve shaded plants like ferns and Norfolk pines, enhancing the feeling of being surrounded by nature reminiscent of that region.
The choice of pots and planters also contributes to the atmosphere of the nature nook. Carter advocates selecting containers that harmonize with the overall design, such as terracotta planters, which can enhance the mood and emotional resonance of the space.
Practical concerns must not be overlooked. Plant height should be appropriate for ceiling heights and spatial constraints. Protecting floor surfaces is essential, utilizing planters that guard against water damage. Safety considerations are paramount, especially in homes with pets or children, to ensure plant selections are non-toxic and safe.
Establishing a routine use for the nature nook, such as having morning coffee or evening reading sessions there, can maximize its benefits. Carter reflects that his dedication to plants has fostered greater patience, kindness, consideration, and listening abilities, attributing these positive personal changes at least in part to the presence of plants in his life and home.