A Small Toronto Condo Has Refreshingly Verdant Plant Shelf and Display Ideas

published May 2, 2021

We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

Plants in front of window in bedroom — Credit: Rosanna U
Propagating station

Name: Anlan Yao
Location: High Park — Toronto, Ontario
Type of home: Condo
Size: 895 square feet
Years lived in: 3 years, owned

Credit: Rosanna U

A peek into the sleeping quarters

Tell us a little (or a lot) about your home and the people who live there: My home is well-loved and filled with pieces that bring happiness, light, and laughter. It is surrounded by greenery (lots and lots of greenery) and pieces found and repurposed. My aim was to create a space where memories are made, where food and laugher are shared, and where calmness becomes infectious. I am fortunate to live in a space where sunlight resonates in the mornings and pours in the afternoons.

Credit: Rosanna U

Reflections

I am a blend of my surroundings and upbringing; my family, friends, and hobbies are represented in every nook and cranny of this space. My home is my attempt to bring the outdoors inside. Among the chaos of city living, I wanted my home to be filled with light, plants, and pieces that spark conversation. As a female of color, I also wanted my space to tell a story — one that shares the collective realities of my culture and ethnicity and is unapologetic in its stance for the strength of women.

Credit: Rosanna U

Nudity is always welcomed.

Describe your home’s style in 5 words or less: Plants, reused, recycled, and more plants

Credit: Rosanna U

Peek into the living room.

What is your favorite room and why? My favorite room has to be my living room. It is filled with natural light and has allowed the growth of an urban jungle. This room has been filled and continues to be filled with memories of family, friends, and countless nights of laughter and conversation. It is more than just a room; it is a space where I can relax and enjoy a cup of coffee or a glass of wine, and it provides me with the unique opportunity to garden in a condo.

Credit: Rosanna U

What’s the last thing you bought (or found!) for your home? The last thing I brought into my home was a piece of brick with three holes I found while biking through the city. I currently use the brick as a candleholder!

Credit: Rosanna U

Sometimes I work.

Any advice for creating a home you love? Fill it with fond memories or pieces that remind you of those fond memories. Bring a plant home. You won’t regret it.

Credit: Rosanna U

Original sketches of my favorite buildings by my talented father! "Erotic-art" pieces by me, fruit of the looms.

This submission’s responses and photos were edited for length/size and clarity.

Share Your Style: House Tour & House Call Submission Form

Filed in:

Apartment

House Call