Houseplants May Aid in Thermal Regulation of Home: Some Strategies Proven Effective
In the realm of interior design, the use of indoor gardens is gaining popularity for more reasons than just aesthetics. Anna Vasiltsova, founder of Anna Design LA, recommends vertical gardens to insulate walls, while Daniela Venturini, art director and trend forecaster at Wayfair, suggests using indoor climbing plants to add structure and style to a home.
Indoor plants, it seems, can play a modest role in insulation and temperature regulation. They can increase humidity and provide a slight barrier to heat transfer, helping to moderate indoor temperatures. However, it's essential to note that plants are not a substitute for conventional insulation materials like spray foam or rigid foam panels, which have much higher thermal resistance.
Plants contribute to temperature regulation in several ways. For instance, they release moisture through transpiration, which can help cool the air in dry conditions. Larger indoor plants can create micro-shading and influence air circulation patterns indoors, slightly moderating temperature extremes.
When it comes to recommended plants for insulation and temperature regulation, Ficus species, like Ficus benjamina, are large, leafy plants that transpire well and provide good air coverage. Areca palms and Boston ferns are known for high transpiration rates, improving humidity and air quality. Spider plants and peace lilies also contribute to indoor humidity and air purification with moderate size. Succulents and cacti, while less effective for humidity, are useful in certain indoor designs where minimal watering is desired.
Indoor gardens can filter sunlight around windows, potentially reducing heat gain. In a specific garden room that struggles with temperature regulation, a garden wall would be particularly beneficial. Placing indoor trees in sunlit areas can help absorb some of the sun's energy, reducing heat ingress.
Anna Vasiltsova's approach toward interior design has been heavily influenced by the cities she has lived in. Her philosophy focuses on creating beautiful, comfortable interiors that offer a luxurious living experience. In her designs, indoor gardens play a significant role, not just as decorative elements, but as functional components of the home.
Remember, indoor plants are an adjunct to temperature regulation, enhancing comfort via humidity and air quality improvements, but they do not provide substantial insulation comparable to dedicated building materials. It's important to tend to indoor plants regularly and give them the care and attention they need to thrive.
While indoor plants cannot replace air conditioning or heating systems, they can complement these systems to create a more comfortable indoor environment. In the end, a well-planned indoor garden can be a beautiful and functional addition to any home.
Vertical gardens, suggested by Anna Vasiltsova, can help insulate walls in a living room, adding a trendy touch to interior design. Larger indoor plants such as Ficus benjamina and Areca palms, known for high transpiration rates, can also contribute to temperature regulation by increasing humidity and creating micro-shading. Indoor gardens, when strategically placed, can filter sunlight and potentially reduce heat gain in specific rooms. Furthermore, home-and-garden enthusiasts might find the DIY addition of indoor trees and climbing plants an appealing lifestyle choice for gardening within their living space.
