Want to decorate your home with low-cost, hassle-free flowers? Take a tour of Kew Gardens Orchid Festival and get inspired by exploring the vibrant colors of Thailand's botanical beauty.
The 2018 festival runs until March 11 and promises to immerse visitors in Thai culture and oriental flowers. The perfect inspiration for an exotic interior update.
Vanda orchid tunnels, orchid arches, handmade Thai umbrellas and Thai afternoon tea make for a spectacular sight in and around the Princess of Wales Conservatory. Weekend visitors can also enjoy Thai street food and live music. 
flowers after hours
Special Thai-themed experiences are also available during Kew After Hours on Thursdays and Fridays from 6pm to 9:30pm. There will be Thai cocktails, massages and spa treatments, dancers, traditional costumes and even vegetable carvings, and all the orchid displays will be dramatically lit up.
Houseplant heaven
Orchids have long been a favorite interior accent for fine dining restaurants and hotels. These oriental flowers add natural elegance to contemporary spaces, are easy to care for and bloom for a long time.
dining room
A series of orchids form the striking centerpiece of these dining tables. The simplicity and structure of the white and pale yellow flowers pair perfectly with the warm grays and clean lines of the decor. Click on the image above to see more photos of this stylish 4 bedroom house with Hyde Park views.
entrance hall
These bright pink orchids add color to the entrance hall of this SW20 house. Characteristic lighting brightens the enclosed space, and mirrored surfaces enhance the visual impact of the flowers.
lounge
There are three orchids planted in this lounge. This luxurious three-bedroom apartment showcases versatility with fresh touches of rich fabrics and ornate lighting. Currently on sale at our Park Lane office.
Here, three orchids add a sculptural touch to the lounge area of this artistic open-plan home in SW15. A variety of vase displays and potted plants add life and color to this neutral interior.
Visit our Home Inspiration page to see thousands more interior photos. Search by style, color, function, and room!
Blooming orchid: plant care
Let's be honest, we've all bought an orchid at the supermarket and ended up with a stick still in the pot. Thankfully, Kew also offers tips and advice for getting your plants to bloom regularly. Below are some highlights.
Phalaenopsis is one of the easiest varieties to care for and is perfect for beginners. Wait until the plant is dry between waterings, then water from above. Use rainwater if possible. Phalaenopsis orchids like to be watered, especially if you live in a hard water area. Minimum temperature: 15℃ Once the flowers have finished, cut the panicle (stem) about 3cm from the base.
