Introduction

If you’ve ever wandered through a botanical garden or visited an old estate, you might have noticed that plant-filled rooms and glass‑fronted extensions go by many names. As indoor gardeners, we’re not just looking for houseplants; we’re creating little ecosystems that bring beauty, sustainability and joy into our lives. This article, part of our Indoor Gardening Basics overview, explores some of the elegant terms used to describe indoor gardens and how you can design your own. Whether you’re tending herbs on a windowsill or dreaming of a glass‑walled retreat, understanding these names adds a touch of history and inspiration to your hobby.

I started experimenting with indoor gardening in a small apartment. At first it was just a pot of basil on the kitchen table. As my collection grew, I became fascinated by the language people use to describe their plant spaces. Words like “conservatory” and “orangery” sounded grand, and I wondered what made them different from a simple greenhouse. In my quest to learn, I discovered that these terms carry stories about how people cared for plants centuries ago. Today, they can help us dream up beautiful spaces that fit our modern homes and values.

Why names matter and what they signify

When you hear someone mention a conservatory, orangery or terrarium, they’re not just being fancy, but they’re describing specific types of indoor plant environments. Knowing the differences can help you envision your own ideal growing space. It can also spark ideas about plant selection, lighting and design. The terminology connects us to a long tradition of bringing nature indoors and reminds us that indoor gardening can be both practical and artistic.

Fancy names for an indoor garden

There are several terms that gardeners and architects use to describe plant‑filled rooms or containers. Here are some of the most popular “fancy” names and what they mean:

Conservatory

Historically, a conservatory is a glass‑walled room or building designed for growing and displaying plants. The Merriam‑Webster dictionary defines a conservatory as “a greenhouse for growing or displaying plants” (Merriam‑Webster). Conservatories often attach to the main house, creating a bright space where you can relax among foliage. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, wealthy families built elaborate conservatories to showcase exotic palms and orchids. Today, the term is still used for sunrooms with plenty of glazing. If you have a sunny porch or glassed‑in balcony, you might think of it as your own conservatory. Even a small shelf under grow lights can evoke the spirit of a conservatory when filled with lush greenery.

Orangery

The orangery has an even older pedigree. According to the Encyclopaedia Britannica, an orangery is a garden building designed for the wintering of exotic shrubs and trees, primarily orange trees, and dates back to at least the 16th century (Britannica). Early orangeries were sturdy structures that could be covered and heated with stoves to protect tender citrus during cold seasons. In the 17th and 18th centuries, they became elaborate architectural features in European gardens. Modern homeowners sometimes use the term “orangery” for brick and glass extensions with a lantern roof. If your home doesn’t have room for a full orangery, you can borrow the aesthetic by grouping citrus plants, bay trees or figs in a bright corner and surrounding them with glazed pots and terracotta.

Atrium or sunroom

An atrium originally referred to an open courtyard in ancient Roman houses, but architects now use it for a central space with a high ceiling and abundant light. In residential design, a sunroom or atrium is a room enclosed with large windows or glass panels that capture sunlight. These spaces often serve as living areas as well as plant rooms. A sunroom can be a modern take on a conservatory: it invites people to sit among plants, read a book or enjoy a cup of tea. If your home has a bright bay window or enclosed porch, decorating it with plants transforms it into a calming atrium. Choose species that love bright indirect light, such as philodendrons, peace lilies and ferns. A comfortable chair and a side table complete the room.

Terrarium

For those with limited space, a terrarium offers a miniature version of a lush garden. A terrarium is a sealed glass container that creates its own tiny ecosystem. Iowa State University Extension describes terrariums as containers in which plants take up water, release it through leaves, and then have that moisture condense on the glass and return to the soil, allowing the plants to thrive for months without additional watering (Iowa State University Extension). Building a terrarium is like creating a self‑contained rainforest. You layer pebbles, charcoal, soil and small plants, mist the arrangement and then close the lid. Within days, condensation forms on the glass, and a self‑sustaining water cycle keeps the environment humid. Terrariums are perfect for ferns, mosses and miniature tropicals. They make beautiful centrepieces and require very little maintenance.

Greenhouse or glasshouse

The term “greenhouse” is often used interchangeably with conservatory, but it usually refers to a structure dedicated solely to plant production. Commercial greenhouses are designed for growing vegetables, flowers and seedlings in controlled conditions. They may be freestanding or attached to a home. In British English, “glasshouse” is common. While most of us don’t have room for a full‑scale greenhouse, you can achieve similar benefits with a small indoor greenhouse or grow tent. I repurposed an old glass cabinet into a mini greenhouse by adding LED grow lights and a tiny fan. This setup allows me to propagate cuttings and start seedlings year‑round without taking up much space.

Vivarium

Although less common, “vivarium” is another fancy term sometimes used for plant displays. A vivarium is an enclosure designed to contain live plants and sometimes animals, such as reptiles or amphibians. Unlike a terrarium, which focuses on plants, a vivarium balances the needs of both flora and fauna. If you’re interested in growing orchids alongside dart frogs or creating a paludarium (a mix of land and water), then a vivarium might be the term for you. Start with a glass tank, add drainage layers and substrate, then choose plants and inhabitants that share similar humidity and temperature needs. This type of indoor garden requires more research, but it can be incredibly rewarding and educational.

Designing your own fancy indoor garden

You don’t need a palace to enjoy the elegance of these garden rooms. Here are some practical ideas for bringing a touch of sophistication to your indoor garden:

• Adopt the conservatory vibe: If you have a sunny corner, fill it with a variety of plants at different heights. Place larger specimens like fiddle‑leaf figs or citrus trees at the back, mid‑sized ferns and peace lilies in the middle, and trailing plants such as pothos or ivy at the front. Use matching planters or baskets from our Planters collection to create a cohesive look.
• Create an orangery corner: Group together fruiting plants like Meyer lemon, calamondin or dwarf pomegranate. These thrive in bright light and love the extra humidity. A self‑watering planter from our Self‑Watering Solutions helps maintain consistent moisture while reducing spills. Decorate with rustic terracotta pots to evoke the historic feel of an orangery.
• Design a sunroom oasis: Even if your “sunroom” is just a bright window, make it inviting. Add a comfortable chair or bench, a side table, and your favorite houseplants. Grow aromatic herbs or fragrant jasmine to engage the senses. Consider adding a tabletop fountain for gentle sound and humidity.
• Build a terrarium: Select a glass container with a lid, such as a jar or aquarium. Add a layer of small stones for drainage, a bit of activated charcoal to keep the water fresh, then a layer of sterile potting mix. Arrange small humidity‑loving plants inside and mist lightly. Once closed, your terrarium will recycle water. Terrariums are wonderful for apartments and make thoughtful gifts.
• Upcycle a mini greenhouse: Convert an old cabinet, shelving unit or even a large plastic storage container into a mini greenhouse. Install LED grow lights and a small fan for air circulation. Use this space to start seeds, root cuttings or protect humidity‑loving tropicals. This DIY project embodies our brand values of sustainability and innovation by repurposing materials and saving water with controlled conditions.
• Explore hydroponics: Combine elegance with efficiency by using a countertop hydroponic system from our Smart Gardens category. These sleek units use nutrient‑rich water and built‑in lights to grow herbs, lettuce and flowers without soil. They’re perfect for modern kitchens and offer year‑round harvests.

Tips for beginners

All of these fancy names and ideas might feel overwhelming, but remember that even the grandest garden rooms began with a single plant. Here are some beginner‑friendly tips to get you started:

• Start small: Choose one project—perhaps a terrarium or a collection of herbs on a windowsill—and learn as you go. Success with a small setup builds confidence and knowledge.
• Focus on light: Observe how much natural light your space receives. If your plants look leggy or pale, supplement with LED grow lights. Position lights 20–30 cm above foliage and leave them on for about 12–14 hours a day.
• Maintain humidity: Many tropical plants need higher humidity than most homes provide. Grouping plants together, placing them on trays of pebbles and water, or using a small humidifier can help. Terrariums naturally maintain humidity because of their sealed environment.
• Water wisely: Overwatering is the number one cause of indoor plant problems. Check soil moisture with your finger before watering. Self‑watering planters help regulate moisture and reduce the risk of root rot.
• Use quality soil: A good potting mix provides drainage and nutrients. Avoid using garden soil indoors; instead, choose a sterile mix formulated for houseplants or seed starting. This reduces the chance of bringing pests or diseases inside.
• Keep it sustainable: Our brand values sustainability, so consider capturing rainwater for your plants, reusing containers and choosing organic fertilizers. Indoor gardening can save water compared to outdoor gardening because conditions are more controlled.
• Enjoy the journey: Caring for plants has been shown to reduce stress and improve mood (SDSU Extension). Take pleasure in watching new growth and learning from any setbacks. The joy and pride you feel when a plant thrives is part of what makes indoor gardening so rewarding.

Conclusion

“Conservatory,” “orangery,” “terrarium,” “atrium”—these words may sound grand, but they each describe ways people throughout history have celebrated and protected plants indoors. By understanding their origins and meanings, we can borrow ideas and adapt them to our own homes. Whether your indoor garden is a single terrarium or a sun‑soaked room filled with fruit trees, the goal is the same: to enjoy fresh, sustainable greenery that boosts your well‑being.

I hope this exploration of fancy names inspires you to think creatively about your own space. If you’re curious about how to start or expand your indoor garden, explore our related article, What are ideas for indoor gardening? that is part of our growing knowledge hub. When you’re ready to equip your space, browse our Smart Gardens, Planters and Self‑Watering Solutions. Together we can cultivate healthier lifestyles, save water and find joy in watching things grow.