Create a Zen Space with Preserved Moss Frames & Terrariu

In today's fast-paced world, finding ways to unwind and reduce stress has become more important than ever. That’s why having a Zen space in our home to relax is essential for our mental well-being.

As humans are inherently drawn to nature, a simple way to create a calm ambiance is to introduce natural elements into your home. Preserved moss frames and terrariums are popular and easy ways to create a serene space that promotes tranquillity - without the hassle of regular plant maintenance.

If you’re planning to introduce these botanicals into your living room or bedroom, we’ve got you! InOut Atelier shares all you need to know about preserved moss frames and terrariums, and why you should add them to your home to create a Zen space.

InOut Atelier is a botanical design studio that specialises in using botanical elements to enhance the indoor visual experience and suit our biophilic needs. With the help of bespoke preserved mosses and terrariums, InOut Atelier helps to bridge the gap between outdoor and indoor spaces.

What is preserved moss?

Preserved moss is a natural plant material that has been treated with a special solution and preservation technology to maintain its suppleness, texture, and vibrant colour. This treatment process replaces the moisture in the living plant with a glycerin-based solution that preserves the moss and prevents it from drying out.

It is often used in decorative arrangements like moss frames as they require minimal maintenance and are an eco-friendly option. When nestled close together, preserved moss can create depth and visual interest, adding a three-dimensional illusion to your space.

InOut Atelier creates customised preserved moss frames.

What is a terrarium?

A terrarium is a small, enclosed ecosystem made up of plants, soil, and sometimes rocks and pebbles. It is typically housed in a glass or plastic container that allows for sunlight to penetrate and helps to create a mini greenhouse effect.

InOut Atelier’s terrariums use live pole mosses and figurines for decoration.

Terrariums are often used to mimic indoor gardens as they take up less space and require little maintenance compared to traditional gardens. They can be planted with a variety of plants like ferns, pole mosses, succulents, and more.

Benefits of preserved moss and terrariums

Low maintenance

If you’re not blessed with a green thumb, preserved mosses and terrariums are great options as they require very little maintenance. As preserved moss has been treated to remove its water content and retain its softness and colour, this makes it almost maintenance-free.

Terrariums are self-contained ecosystems - which means that they are able to recycle moisture and nutrients within the container. So, once you find a good spot with sufficient light to place your terrarium, they require little attention beyond occasional watering.

Brings about several health benefits

In addition to being low-maintenance, preserved moss and terrariums also offer a number of health benefits, both physical and mental.

Studies have shown that spending time in nature can reduce stress, improve moods, and boost cognitive functions. Hence, creating a Zen space with preserved moss frames and terrariums brings a piece of nature indoors, providing a calming environment that promotes relaxation and mental clarity.

Space-saving

Preserved moss frames and terrariums are great for those who live in apartments and HDBs as they take up very little room. As terrariums are usually small, they can be placed on shelves, dining tables, or windowsills. Preserved moss frames are also usually designed to be hung on walls, which means that they don’t take up any valuable floor space.

Shelves are great places to house small potted plants, like mini terrariums. Pictured: The Sloane Shelf.

Furthermore, because preserved moss frames and terrariums are designed to be compact, they often contain multiple plants in a small space. This means that you can enjoy the beauty of multiple plants without having to find room for them all individually.

Recommended read: How to Make Your Home More Space Efficient

Helps to conceal unsightly areas

By placing a terrarium or preserved moss frame over an eyesore, such as an electrical outlet, cords, or a damaged wall, you can effectively cover it up while also adding a beautiful decorative element to the room.

Terrariums and preserved moss frames can also be used to camouflage unsightly areas on bookshelves, windowsills, and other surfaces, making them a great way to enhance the overall aesthetic of the space while hiding unattractive features.

Customisable

Terrariums and preserved moss frames come in a wide variety of sizes and shapes, which means that you can choose one that fits perfectly in your space. InOut Atelier individually crafts their moss frames and terrariums to complement your interior design and preferences.

Whether you need a small terrarium for your office desk or a mosstallation, pick from InOut Atelier’s wide variety of designs and sizes - you’ll surely find one that works for you.

How to style around moss frames and terrariums

If you plan to add moss frames and terrariums to your home, but are worried that they’ll look out of place in your home, here are a few tips to keep in mind to tie the look together.

Furniture and decor

Choose furniture made from natural materials such as teak, bamboo, or rattan. These materials add warmth and a natural touch to the space, enhancing the overall Zen ambience.

@prettyrealblog complements the Seb Coffee Table with Storage with a neutral colour scheme. Also pictured: The Hamilton 3 Seater Sofa and Harper Side Table.

For example, the Seb Coffee Table with Storage acts as a great pedestal for a small terrarium or moss frame. Made from solid acacia wood in a muted honey tone, this coffee table offers a homey vibe that will help your botanicals blend right in.

You can also introduce natural textiles through rugs and cushions made from organic materials like jute or cotton. These different textures can add depth, visual interest, and most importantly, complement the moss frames and terrariums in your home.

Interior design styles

Opt for a minimalist interior design that emphasises simplicity and clean lines. As minimalism centres around the idea of “less is more”, this creates a sense of calmness and serenity. This interior style will provide the perfect backdrop for moss frames and terrariums, allowing these natural elements to take centre stage.

Alternatively, Scandinavian interiors will work well too. Scandinavian designs are characterized by their light, airy, and natural aesthetic. As this interior style often incorporates natural elements like wood and organic textiles, it complements the moss frames and terrariums, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

The Owen 3 Seater Sofa will make the perfect sofa for a Scandinavian interior to complement your moss frames and terrariums.

Colours

Stick to an earthy colour palette with shades of greens, browns, beiges, and warm neutrals. Earthy colours evoke a sense of connection to the natural world, creating a grounding atmosphere.

By incorporating these colours, you can bring the serenity of nature indoors and create a harmonious environment that complements the moss frames and terrariums.

How to maintain moss frames and terrariums

Both these botanical elements are low maintenance - not no maintenance. That said, they still require care, albeit minimal. Let’s take a look at how to care for and maintain both of them.

Preserved moss frames

The upkeep of moss frames is pretty simple. InOut Atelier recommends keeping your preserved moss frames indoors and away from direct sunlight. This is because the heat from the sun can cause discolouration and change the texture of the preserved moss. Additionally, they should be placed away from areas with high humidity such as the shower or toilets.

Terrariums

For terrariums, there are 3 main components to ensure their longevity - humidity, light, and water.

Humidity is a self-occurring phenomenon within the terrarium that helps build a warm and moist environment for the mosses to thrive. But, too much of it can affect the mosses and cause the jar to fog up. That said, you can leave the lid ajar or wipe the inside of the glass to reduce the amount of condensation built up.

Recommended read: Terrarium Up Close - Humidity and Condensation

Secondly, terrariums have to be kept in a bright area away from direct sunlight or any appliance that emits heat. This is because while terrariums grow well in sunlight, any intense heat can cause the mosses to dry up.

Lastly, despite popular belief that terrariums do not require any watering, this is a myth! Even though they are self-sustaining, terrariums do require some assistance when it comes to irrigation, especially if terrariums have a moss base. Use a spray bottle to spritz water once every fortnight to avoid over-watering.

Preserved moss frames and terrariums are a simple and effective way to create a Zen space that promotes relaxation and well-being. With proper care and attention, they can provide years of enjoyment and help you find inner peace in today's busy world. Embrace the beauty of preserved moss frames and terrariums to transform your home into a sanctuary of peace and harmony.