On Friday, 22nd November, the International School of Design (INSD) hosted a unique and inspiring Miniature Garden Workshop exclusively for its interior design students. This hands-on workshop provided an innovative opportunity to blend nature with design, allowing students to explore the fascinating world of miniature gardens—a trend that is rapidly gaining popularity in the world of interior design.
The workshop was part of INSD’s broader initiative to enrich students’ design experiences by introducing them to creative concepts that marry functionality with aesthetics. The miniature garden, often called a “terrarium” when enclosed, is a tiny landscape that can incorporate elements like plants, stones, sand, figurines, and other natural materials. These miniaturized ecosystems are not only visually striking but also serve as functional elements in interior spaces, adding texture, color, and a sense of calm.
Setting the Stage: Creating an Inspiring Environment for Learning
The International School of Design has always been known for its innovative teaching methods and focus on practical learning. The Miniature Garden Workshop was no different. Held in one of the spacious design studios, the room was filled with excitement as students eagerly gathered around various workstations, each equipped with essential materials.
The students were divided into groups to encourage collaboration, and each group was given a selection of miniature plants, decorative elements, and containers like glass jars, wooden boxes, or ceramic pots. Their task was to design and build a self-sustaining miniature garden, bringing together elements of design theory, environmental awareness, and creative expression.
The Significance of the Workshop
The idea of miniature gardens, or indoor terrariums, has been growing in popularity in recent years, especially in the world of interior design. With urban spaces becoming increasingly smaller, interior designers are exploring ways to incorporate nature into indoor environments. Miniature gardens are an easy and accessible way to bring a touch of the outdoors inside while maintaining the aesthetics of a well-designed space.
The objective of the workshop was not just to create beautiful and functional gardens, but to introduce students to sustainable design practices and highlight the growing importance of biophilic design—the concept of integrating natural elements into interior spaces. These tiny ecosystems also serve as a great example of space management and the way designers can work with small-scale elements to create larger visual impacts.
Workshop Breakdown: Step-by-Step Process
1. Introduction to Miniature Gardens
The workshop began with a short introduction by the faculty, who provided students with an overview of the history and significance of miniature gardens. Students learned how these tiny landscapes could serve as a representation of the larger world of garden design, translating big ideas into smaller, more manageable forms.
The instructor also emphasized the aesthetic and therapeutic benefits of these gardens, explaining how they could not only add beauty to interior spaces but also enhance well-being. By incorporating nature into interior environments, designers can create spaces that reduce stress, increase productivity, and improve air quality.
2. Choosing the Right Plants and Materials
Next, the students were introduced to the selection of materials they would be working with, starting with the plants. Various types of plants suitable for miniature gardens were provided, including succulents, cacti, and air plants. These plants are known for their low maintenance and ability to thrive in small, confined spaces—making them perfect for terrariums and miniature gardens.
In addition to the plants, students were given a variety of decorative materials to work with, including small stones, sand, pebbles, moss, driftwood, and tiny figurines. The challenge for the students was to choose the right combination of plants and materials that would work in harmony, creating a balanced and visually appealing miniature garden.
3. Designing the Layout
Once the materials were chosen, students were tasked with creating their designs. This step involved planning the layout of the garden inside their containers, taking into consideration factors such as light, airflow, and water drainage.
Students learned the importance of considering the vertical and horizontal elements of design, as well as how the scale of plants, stones, and decorations impacts the overall composition. The design process also required them to think about how the miniature garden would be placed within a larger interior space and how it could complement the surrounding décor.
4. Building the Miniature Garden
With their designs planned, students began the process of building their miniature gardens. They started by adding layers to the bottom of the container for proper drainage, which is crucial to ensure the plants do not become waterlogged. Common materials used for drainage included gravel or small stones.
Next, they added soil—typically a mixture of potting soil and compost—before carefully placing the plants into their new homes. The plants were arranged based on their size, height, and light requirements. Taller plants were placed in the back, while shorter plants were positioned in the front for optimal visual appeal.
Students were encouraged to add personal touches to their designs with decorative elements, such as small figurines, colored sand, and moss. This was a fun, creative part of the workshop, as students could let their imaginations run wild, designing miniature worlds that were both functional and whimsical.
5. Caring for the Miniature Garden
Once the gardens were built, the instructor demonstrated how to care for them, emphasizing that miniature gardens require minimal maintenance but still need the right amount of attention. Students learned about the water requirements of different plants, how to manage sunlight exposure, and the importance of periodically cleaning the containers to maintain the health of the plants.
The students were encouraged to regularly observe their gardens, noting how the plants grew and interacted with the other elements in the container. This exercise was not just about creating a beautiful piece of design, but about cultivating an understanding of plant life and the delicate balance needed to keep the miniature garden thriving.
Key Takeaways from the Workshop
1. Hands-on Learning Experience
One of the biggest benefits of the Miniature Garden Workshop was the opportunity for students to get hands-on experience with an innovative design concept. Working directly with plants, containers, and other materials allowed students to apply their theoretical knowledge in a real-world context. This practical learning approach is invaluable for aspiring interior designers, as it helps them develop problem-solving skills, creativity, and a deeper understanding of design principles.
2. Understanding Biophilic Design
The workshop introduced students to the concept of biophilic design, a growing trend in the interior design world that focuses on creating environments that connect people to nature. By designing miniature gardens, students learned how to incorporate natural elements into interior spaces—something that is becoming increasingly important as people seek more sustainable, healthy, and restorative living environments.
3. Sustainability in Design
Miniature gardens are a perfect example of sustainable design. They require minimal resources, and with the right selection of plants, they can thrive with little maintenance. Students gained an appreciation for how small-scale design elements can have a significant impact on both the environment and the people who live in these spaces.
4. Creativity and Customization
The workshop allowed students to unleash their creativity by designing unique miniature landscapes. With a range of materials to choose from, students could personalize their gardens to reflect their individual tastes and styles. This exercise reinforced the importance of customization in interior design—where each space is tailored to meet the needs and desires of the occupants.
5. Creating Functional Art
The miniature gardens were not just decorative pieces but also functional elements that could be integrated into interior spaces. Students learned how to design aesthetically pleasing pieces that also serve a purpose, making them an excellent addition to any room, whether as a centerpiece or a calming element in a corner.
The Miniature Garden Workshop at the International School of Design was a resounding success, providing students with an enriching opportunity to explore new design techniques and gain hands-on experience in a creative and sustainable way. The workshop offered valuable lessons in plant care, biophilic design, and small-scale interior design, all of which are essential skills for aspiring interior designers.
As urban spaces continue to shrink and people seek ways to bring nature into their homes, the miniature garden trend is expected to continue its rise in popularity. For students at INSD, this workshop not only opened their eyes to a new area of interior design but also equipped them with the skills to incorporate this trend into their future projects.
The experience of creating their own miniature gardens left students inspired and motivated, eager to continue exploring the intersection of nature, design, and sustainability in their work. The workshop was a perfect example of how interior design can be both an art and a science, blending creativity with functionality to create spaces that truly enrich people’s lives.
