Holy-space! Install a velodrome in your loft, a rock climbing wall, hell a bowling alley!! Looks as if you certainly have the space!!

Wow.

Take a risk ! make a change. Grow vegetables -

Bright Red tomatoes, String Beans, Basil, Bell peppers, carrots - to name a few.

that's my cent

go cara go.
i can't wait to come by.
i think color might be nice too (vegies).

but i understand the moss idea.

good luck.

I cook all the time and I would love to grow vegetables, but the existing frame for the garden is only 6 inches deep. I suppose I could build up a section in order to grow vegetables.
Would the limited light be a factor?
Thanks for the suggestions!

cara

Although I like the idea of growing vegetables and having fun colors that pop, they do need a lot of sunlight and it sounds you wouldn't be getting all that much of it. And there is nothing more depressing than a dying tomato plant. :(

But I'd take a risk and go for something unique, bold and colorful, which would look wonderful in your gorgeous loft. Find plants that are really sculptural. I think your best bet would be to go to a garden store and talk to one of the employees. They'll be able to show you tons of options that will work with the amount of light you get and the look you are going for.

Succulents have really interesting shapes (almost prehistoric looking!) and are really easy to care for. I have quite a few and they require very little care and seem to last for ever. It seems as though they'd fit your decor well, too. I had some on my blog awhile ago if you want to check them out. Very cool place, by the way. I have space-envy!

http://sfgirlbybay.blogspot.com/2006/07/succulents-they-suck-but-then-they.html#links

Sorry that link didn't work - if you click on my name it'll link to my blog and this entry is archived in July.

too funny, I think I used to live in that space a few years ago. I would say that herbs and flowers that tolerate some shade would do well there. I also like the idea of succulents. And have you considered using other containers for plants that require more root space? Might be an interesting way to create a sculptural look that Katie suggests

jennie-
there are many that are accustomed to the Texas ballroom building and its spaces. I come across people very often. The place has a long history though it is much more calm and peacefull now.

As far as planters...I was thinking of putting gigantic potted trees in other parts of the living room. We will see the more things develop.

Victoria-
I love the idea of scultural plants. I am definitely going to check out your succelents-thanks for the tip.

cara

My Uncle is a plant pathologist at Ohio State University, and did his thesis on mosses. I have spoken to him about mosses before because I was always interested in growing them also. I highly doubt a moss would survive in that plant bed.

If you want to use a grass, Wheat Grass is always nice and very easy to take care of. That is the grass that you normally see on design websites http://www.goodhealth.co.th/images/wheatgrass.jpg

Dear Jennie,

Long time listener, first time caller...if you go to Jamba Juice on Thursdays, they get their fresh batches of wheat grass in. An entire "case" costs $20 earth dollars. And if Brian's posting is accurate, there you are.

Kevin