The Victorian Arid House

The design is inspired by the Victorians’ fascination with cacti and succulents, particularly the way they were displayed in glasshouses and private conservatories during the 19th century. The Arid House is a Victorian-style greenhouse, painted black to create a dramatic backdrop for an immersive display of cacti and succulents. The purpose of the exhibit is to showcase the timeless appeal of these plants, from their historical significance to their modern resurgence as statement pieces in interior and exterior design.

A carefully curated display will feature a diverse selection of arid plants, arranged to highlight their colours, textures and forms. Outside, the surrounding landscape will feature black gravel and large specimen cacti in statement pots, extending the theme beyond the greenhouse and reinforcing the contrast between the architectural plants and their minimalist setting.

This Houseplant Studio will not be judged.

Key plants: The cacti and succulents have been chosen for their sculptural qualities, each selected to highlight the diverse forms, textures, and adaptations of arid plants. The exhibit will feature tall, columnar specimens; architectural, branching forms; rosette-forming succulents; rounded, barrel-like specimens and rare and unusual collector’s plants.