Dear Plant Stylist: "Help Me Get the Mid-Century Mad Men Look!"
In our Dear Plant Stylist series, we share styling inquiries received by our in-house stylist with our audience. So read on- you just might find that your plant styling questions are answered below!
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Dear Plant Stylist,
I just invested in a few new pieces of furniture (think: Knoll) for my apartment. I’m so excited about them- I’ve waited a long time to arrive at a place in my life where I can realize my dream of authentic Mid-Century design in my home. AND the holidays are coming up, so I’m gearing up to host friends. My plan is Manhattans, canapés, and a totally Mad Men vibe.
Now that I’ve gotten the furniture locked, it’s time for plants. What are your suggestions for greenery that will go with the Mid-Century, Mad Men theme?
Thanks,
D.E.
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Hi D.,
Do we ever have some options for you!
First off- congratulations! There’s nothing like the feeling of attaining a goal for your living space that you’ve been working toward for some time. We’re excited to help you get that Mad Men look.
Our Bird of Paradise, a perfect addition to a mid-century living room. Photo credit: Apt2b
The Mid-Century ethos was all about newness, forward motion and innovation. It was the Space Age! So there was a pronounced move from nostalgia and inherited goods to a focus on the brand-new. This meant a surge in popularity for plants that felt unusual and fresh.
It probably goes without saying, but the Mid-Century aesthetic is kind of our thing, so you’ve definitely come to the right place. And many of the plants that we carry were very popular in the 1950s and 60s, like the Cast Iron Plant, Snake Plant, Monstera Deliciosa and all sorts of Rubber Plants and trees. In the 1960s, Palms were also used to great effect.
The Monstera Deliciosa on the Mad Men set.
Let’s start with a sculptural statement plant that would have been right at home in Bert Cooper’s office, next to his Rothko: the Lady Palm. Lush, textural and suffused with energy, the Lady Palm would be an ideal choice for a spot in your living or sitting room. They’re tolerant of both bright, indirect and medium-low light.
Now let’s move to the Rubber Tree. Its foliage is high-shine, glossy and stunning. Something about these verdant ficuses just alludes to perpetual newness. They are gorgeous when utilized to flank couches or chairs, as pictured in our inspo photo, next to that caramel leather sofa.
The Rubber Tree is an excellent choice for a mid-century inspired living room.
The Monstera Deliciosa is another authentically Mid-Century floor plant that brings an energetic, tropical aesthetic to interior spaces. They had a heyday in the 60s, and we think that they’re very Megan Draper: emblematic of the new guard of stylish, creative thinkers that were blazing trails as the liberated 1970s approached.
Snake Plants and Cast Iron Plants are period-appropriate options for large plants that can thrive virtually anywhere and require very little care. Perfect picks if you’re concerned that your frequent Pan-Am flights will leave you with little time for plant maintenance!
A Parlor Palm makes for the perfect accent in a mid-century inspired living room. Photo credit: @theweekendmixologist
For accent plants, we can’t say enough about the Parlor Palm. Ideal for placement on tabletops and shelves, the Parlor Palm has an undeniable Mid-Century look. With their flexible light requirements, they add a pop of artful texture and a sense of fun to even commonly overlooked spaces, like bathrooms.
Enjoy curating your new plant collection, D! It’s been more than a treat to return to the timeless inspiration of Mad Men with you.
Easy Care Plants, Delivered
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