Green Living

Plant Life Series: A Scandinavian Apartment in Portland

At Bloomscape, we’re here to help you strengthen your relationship with plants—it’s all part of our mission to bring gezellig to the world. And we love seeing how real-life families live with plants in their home. In our Plant Life Series, we’ll be taking a peek inside inspiring, plant-loving homes from around the country.

Esperanza Lorena (@theurbandarling), shares her super cool, effortlessly thrifted apartment in Portland. We love her mix of Mid-Century modern pieces, Scandinavian patterns and textiles, and thoughtful use of plants.

Tell us a little about yourself and who you share your home with.

I’m a full-time blogger/content creator living in Portland, OR. I share my home with my boyfriend and my younger sister. I left my job as an assistant Interior Designer so that I could pursue blogging and travel more. Traveling is my biggest passion but I’m also passionate about design and fashion!

Tell us about your home.

My home is a remodeled 2-bedroom apartment in SE Portland. I wanted a space with good lighting and an updated kitchen and bathroom so I was thrilled to find it!

Plant Life Series: A Scandinavian Inspired, Mid-Century Modern Apartment in Portland

How do you describe your style?

My style is mid-century modern mixed with some Scandinavian flare. Most of the furniture and decor pieces in my apartment were thrifted locally in Portland. OR. I love simple spaces with white, grey, and wood tone palettes. I love starting with that base and then adding in pops of color!

What inspires you and how does your home reflect that?

I’m definitely inspired by my travels! I have been to 16 countries so far. I’m also inspired by trendy coffee shops, boutiques, and hotels. Basically any establishment with a well-designed space and aesthetic. Many of the pieces in my apartment are a nod to my travels like the globe on my display shelf and the Colombian wall hanging from my mother.

What’s your favorite room and why?

My favorite room is definitely the living room! My best home decor pieces and some of my favorite plants are displayed in that room. This is the room where we spend most of our time so I really wanted to create a homey, fun space to be in.

Plant Life Series: A Scandinavian Inspired, Mid-Century Modern Apartment in Portland

How many houseplants do you have?

I currently have 12 house plants but I am planning on adding more to the collection!

Why do you like having plants in your home?

I love having plants in the home because I think they add so much life! They also have a very calming effect that makes me really happy. There are many health benefits to having plants in a home as well. I don’t think a space is complete without plants.

What’s your favorite plant and why?

My favorite plant right now is my new fiddle leaf fig. I’ve always wanted one and I’m thrilled to have added it to the family! It’s a beautiful plant with a ton of character. I’ve named her Charlie and she is currently sitting pretty by my office desk.  

Plant Life Series: A Scandinavian Inspired, Mid-Century Modern Apartment in Portland

What tips do you have for living with plants?

One of my favorite ways to decorate with plants is to place them in a fun basket. I especially love this look with medium to large plants! I also like to hang plants like Ivy from the ceiling with macrame plant hangers. I love to see how long they grow.

Plant Life Series: A Scandinavian Inspired, Mid-Century Modern Apartment in Portland