Prescribing a dose of biophilia

Inspired by an appreciation of house plants and created by Patch, in partnership with The Edible Bus Stop, the ‘Pharmacy of House Plants’ design concept examines how green spaces – indoor and outdoor – are vital to the wellbeing of mankind, and the planet. The public’s growing understanding of the physical and mental health benefits of plants has been further reinforced by our collective experience of enduring a pandemic. Biophilia (the love of life), and a connection between humans and the natural world, might just be the cure we need.

The ‘Pharmacy of House Plants’ is a contemporary experiential interpretation of a traditional pharmacy. Instead of tonics, pills or lotions sitting on the shelves and offering relief to your ailments, this pharmacy exhibits a cornucopia of stunning interior plants set out as healing products. The plants represent the psychological balm to what ails you. They dispense biophilia; visually and subconsciously imparting mental health support and improving mood.

Thriving house plants can uplift your mood and improve your mental health, reducing stress and loneliness through their calming presence. Studies have shown that people working in inviting plant-filled environments are often more productive and think more creatively, taking fewer sick days and sometimes recovering more quickly from illness. On a practical level, plants help purify the air, reduce background noise through sound absorption, regulate temperature and increase humidity. Smart and helpful.

Each plant and design feature has been carefully chosen to reflect the psychologically medicinal nature of house plants.

The extraordinary house plants in the exhibit have been chosen for their unusual leaf texture and patterns, many featuring white variegation. Plants like Ziggy the variegated monstera create a striking contrast in the display with a playful, contemporary nod to the white coats worn by pharmacists.

Propagation isn't just for the potting shed and cuttings feature throughout our exhibit. Watching roots develop and nurturing cuttings gives a sense of accomplishment, with the added benefit of building new relationships through sharing plants.

Not all plants need to grow in soil. Aquatic planting is a creative way of showcasing plants in your very own calming indoor water garden, whether that's glass jars and tubes or something more substantial.

For a truly immersive experience, it’s not just about how the exhibit looks. Although plants can’t ‘hear’ music, they do respond to its vibrations. Studies show that music can influence a plant’s growth. Just like us, they respond to relaxing rhythms. Our Pharmacy plays music inspired by nature and composed to encourage plant growth.

Find out more about Patch at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show here.

Render image © 2021 Beatriz Mickle