Green spaces within: the role of indoor plants in enhancing aesthetics, air quality and well-being

PurposeThis study aims to evaluate the practical dimensions of integrating indoor plants into interior design from aesthetic, functional and psychological perspectives.Design/methodology/approachA mixed-methods design was used, combining a quantitative survey of 112 gardening enthusiasts analyzed using the relative importance index with in-depth interviews of 10 participants.FindingsResults indicate that indoor plants enhance perceptions of air quality, reduce stress and function as integral features of well-designed spaces incorporating sustainable and biophilic design principles. Cultural insights revealed that participants value houseplants for fostering positive environmental connections.Research limitations/implicationsFindings are limited to gardening hobbyists and may not reflect broader societal trends. The study excluded households without indoor plants; future research should include such participants to identify barriers to adoption. Diversifying cultural and regional contexts would strengthen generalizability. The focus on gardening enthusiasts introduces potential bias, as these participants likely hold favorable attitudes toward indoor plants, limiting broader applicability.Practical implicationsThe study provides actionable insights for interior designers and homeowners to integrate indoor plants as sustainable, functional design elements. Commercial nurseries can leverage these findings for consumer outreach and promoting sustainable indoor planting practices.Social implicationsThe study advocates wider societal acceptance of indoor plants by emphasizing their psychological and environmental benefits, supporting well-being and sustainable living practices.Originality/valueThis paper offers a holistic analysis of indoor plants in residential design by integrating qualitative and quantitative perspectives, informing contemporary interior design practice.