19 Terrarium Ideas to Bring Nature Indoors with Style
Terrariums are a magical way to bring a little slice of nature into your home—without the need for a green thumb or tons of space. Whether you’re looking to add a calming touch to your coffee table, create a standout piece for your back porch decor, or dive into a weekend craft project, there’s a terrarium idea here to spark your creativity.
These glass-encased gardens are not only charming and low-maintenance, but they’re also endlessly customizable. From beachy vibes to forest-inspired mini-ecosystems, we’ve gathered 19 inspiring terrarium ideas that are perfect for modern outdoor living, stylish indoor decor, and even unique gift-giving.
Let’s explore a world of greenery—one container at a time.
1. Classic Closed Glass Terrarium
If you’re looking for a timeless option that practically takes care of itself, a classic closed glass terrarium is a beautiful starting point.
These fully enclosed containers create a mini greenhouse effect, locking in moisture and promoting lush growth for humidity-loving plants like mosses, ferns, and baby’s tears. Because the ecosystem is self-sustaining, it requires very little watering, making it ideal for busy lifestyles or beginners dipping their toes into plant care.
The visual appeal is undeniable. When you layer decorative gravel, activated charcoal, soil, and plants, it creates a clean, layered aesthetic that fits seamlessly into both modern patio furniture setups and rustic farmhouse interiors.
Place it near indirect sunlight—such as a shelf or side table in your living room—or even outside on a shaded, enclosed back porch. The best part? You’ll have a living piece of art that changes over time, giving you something new to admire each day.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a curious beginner, this design invites you into the tranquil world of terrarium gardening—no fuss required.
2. Open Dish Succulent Terrarium
Succulent lovers, this one’s for you. An open dish terrarium filled with sun-loving succulents is not only stylish—it’s also incredibly easy to maintain.
Using a wide, shallow container such as a ceramic bowl, glass dish, or even a repurposed baking dish, you can create a desert-inspired scene that thrives with minimal water. Think hens and chicks, echeveria, zebra plants, and even a few small cacti. Add sand, pebbles, and maybe a little driftwood to complete the aesthetic.
Because succulents prefer dry conditions, open-air containers prevent moisture from building up. This makes them the perfect choice for those who want something low-maintenance but visually striking.
Position your succulent terrarium in a bright spot—like your kitchen windowsill or a sunny back porch nook styled with modern patio furniture. The contrast between the hardy, geometric leaves and soft pebbles adds a contemporary touch to any space.
Succulent terrariums also make thoughtful gifts for birthdays, housewarmings, or even bridal showers. You can get creative with color schemes and container shapes to personalize each one.
3. Hanging Globe Terrariums
Floating greenery? Yes, please. Hanging globe terrariums are a dreamy way to add greenery without taking up valuable surface space.
These glass orbs, often with a small opening on the side, can house air plants, moss, or even small succulents. You can suspend them from ceiling hooks, curtain rods, or a stylish metal stand to bring vertical interest into your home or patio space.
What makes them extra appealing is their weightless charm—they appear to float in mid-air, creating an ethereal vibe. Use clear fishing line or jute twine to hang them at different heights for a cascading effect.
Try placing a few above your back porch seating area or near your kitchen window for a relaxing, greenhouse-style look. You can even add decorative stones or fairy lights for an extra magical touch in the evening.
Hanging terrariums work beautifully with both boho and minimalist aesthetics, making them versatile for various design preferences. Plus, they’re super easy to care for, especially when you choose low-maintenance air plants.
4. Mason Jar Mini Terrarium
There’s something nostalgic and oh-so-charming about using mason jars to create mini terrariums. They’re budget-friendly, easy to make, and incredibly customizable.
Start with a clean jar (pint or quart size works best), then layer in small pebbles, activated charcoal, potting soil, and your choice of greenery—think moss, baby ferns, or fittonia. Seal the jar or leave it open depending on the plant type.
These mini ecosystems are a hit for craft nights, teacher gifts, or little pops of green on desks and bookshelves. You can even tie a ribbon around the lid for an extra decorative flair.
Because they take up very little space, mason jar terrariums are perfect for apartment dwellers or anyone looking to bring a subtle touch of the outdoors in. Set one on a side table near your modern back porch for a hint of rustic charm that feels both classic and contemporary.
No matter your decor style, a mason jar terrarium fits right in—and lets your creativity shine.
5. Vintage Lantern Terrarium
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Turn something old into something whimsical with a vintage lantern terrarium. This idea combines rustic charm with a dash of fairy tale magic, perfect for those who love eclectic, nature-inspired decor.
You’ll need an old lantern—maybe something you’ve thrifted or found at a flea market. Remove the candle and clean the glass, then add layers of soil, moss, and shade-loving plants. You can even tuck in miniature figurines or fairy lights for a storybook touch.
This type of terrarium is ideal for covered patios, porch steps, or cozy corners indoors. The lantern’s weathered metal frame pairs beautifully with modern back porch ideas by adding contrast and character.
For outdoor living lovers, this is an easy way to blend functional decor with greenery. Place a few lanterns along a garden path or cluster them together on a wooden crate near your patio furniture for a cozy, curated vibe.
It’s proof that you don’t need a brand-new container to make something truly magical.
6. Geometric Glass Terrarium
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If your design style leans modern, a geometric glass terrarium is a chic choice that makes a bold statement.
Typically made with metal-edged panes in shapes like pentagons, hexagons, or pyramids, these containers are as much about the plants as they are about the structure itself. Fill them with succulents, air plants, or even a carefully positioned orchid for a clean, high-design look.
Their angular edges and clear lines complement modern patio furniture, Scandinavian interiors, or minimalist home offices. Try displaying a trio of small geometric terrariums in different shapes for an artistic centerpiece or bookshelf display.
To enhance the visual impact, use white gravel or contrasting black pebbles in the base layer. These details pop against the angular walls and bring attention to the greenery inside.
These terrariums are especially beautiful when placed on floating shelves, coffee tables, or entryway consoles. For outdoor living fans, they also make elegant additions to glass-top patio tables.
7. Aquarium-Style Layered Terrarium
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Why not repurpose a small fish tank or clear storage container into a dramatic, layered terrarium? Aquarium-style designs are all about scale, depth, and texture.
Start by creating distinct layers: gravel or pebbles on the bottom, followed by activated charcoal, soil, and moss or sand. This layout is not just functional—it’s visually stunning. Choose taller plants like ferns, spider plants, or even bromeliads to add height and movement.
Add accents like driftwood, polished stones, or ceramic figures to personalize your miniature ecosystem. If you’re feeling extra creative, you can even install a mini LED strip under the lid to spotlight your creation at night.
Because these terrariums are more spacious, they offer room to get artistic with your plant placement and decor. Set one on a back porch bench or console for an earthy, statement-making addition to your outdoor living setup.
This idea is perfect for plant lovers who want something larger than a jar but smaller than a garden.
8. Beach-Inspired Terrarium
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Bring the serenity of the coast into your home with a beach-inspired terrarium that captures the calm and charm of the shoreline.
Start with a clear glass container and add a base of white sand or crushed shells. Incorporate air plants, coral pieces, sea glass, or miniature starfish to complete the seaside theme. These plants don’t require soil, so the arrangement stays clean and low-maintenance.
This style works perfectly in a bathroom, kitchen window, or beach house-style back porch decor. For a little added magic, nestle in some tiny driftwood branches or a sand dollar you picked up on your last vacation.
Whether you live near the coast or just love the aesthetic, this terrarium idea feels breezy, light, and tranquil. It’s especially soothing when placed near soft lighting or sheer curtains that catch the sunlight.
And because it doesn’t rely on traditional potting methods, it’s also one of the easiest to maintain—making it ideal for first-timers or busy homeowners.
9. Fairy Garden Terrarium
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If you’ve ever dreamed of stumbling across a hidden forest glen, a fairy garden terrarium brings that fantasy to life.
Choose a medium-to-large glass container and fill it with lush moss, miniature ferns, and tiny woodland accents. Then comes the fun part—add tiny fairy figurines, toadstool mushrooms, mini bridges, or little cottages for a storybook scene.
This idea is great for crafting with kids or for adults who love whimsical decor. You can even make it seasonal—add fall leaves, snowflakes, or Easter eggs depending on the time of year.
Fairy garden terrariums are a natural fit for cozy reading nooks, outdoor patios styled with vintage decor, or anywhere you want a pop of personality. Pair them with string lights or wood accents for a truly enchanting look.
Not only do they invite curiosity and imagination, but they also make fantastic conversation starters. Expect compliments—these little gardens are hard to resist.
10. Coffee Table Centerpiece Terrarium
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Looking for a living centerpiece that’s as functional as it is beautiful? A coffee table terrarium does just that—and elevates your entire living room in the process.
Opt for a long, low glass container or even a shallow wooden tray lined with a waterproof base. Fill it with a mix of soil, moss, stones, and hardy plants like peace lilies, pothos, or ferns. Add a few natural elements like bark, crystals, or sculptural wood for extra texture.
The key here is balance—arrange your elements with care so the display looks full but not overcrowded. Keep it trimmed and fresh, and it’ll become the centerpiece of your modern outdoor living setup or indoor chill zone.
Place it on a coffee table, outdoor bar cart, or front porch bench where guests can admire your handiwork. It’s the perfect blend of decor and nature, offering a sense of calm without sacrificing style.
11. Apothecary Jar Terrarium
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Bring an old-world charm to your decor with an apothecary jar terrarium. These elegant, lidded glass containers—once used for storing herbs and remedies—make stunning homes for tiny ecosystems.
Start by selecting a tall jar with a removable lid. These containers are ideal for moisture-loving plants like ferns, moss, and peperomia, especially since the lid helps retain humidity. Add layers of drainage stones, activated charcoal, and potting soil, and then plant your greenery with care.
Because of their vintage appeal, apothecary jar terrariums fit beautifully into both rustic farmhouse and modern back porch decor. They’re lovely on mantels, bookshelves, or even outdoor dining tables—just be sure they’re kept out of direct sunlight to avoid overheating.
You can also decorate the exterior with a label, jute ribbon, or twine for a more personalized touch. This terrarium style not only brings a bit of nature indoors but also serves as a striking decor element in any setting.
Whether displayed solo or in a group of varying heights, they add a refined, botanical vibe wherever they go.
12. Wall-Mounted Terrarium
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Short on space? A wall-mounted terrarium is a smart and stylish solution that turns empty walls into lush focal points.
Available in flat-back glass vessels, ceramic pockets, or even custom wall planters, these hanging terrariums are perfect for showcasing air plants, trailing vines, or mossy accents. Choose minimalist frames for a sleek, modern look, or go boho with macramé hangers.
This vertical gardening approach is fantastic for outdoor living walls, entryway nooks, or kitchen backsplashes. You can mount one as a standalone piece or create a gallery wall of greenery that draws the eye upward.
Plus, wall-mounted terrariums are usually easier to care for since they’re at eye level—no more crouching or climbing to reach your plants. And because they’re off the ground, they’re pet-friendly too.
Pair them with framed artwork or mirrors for a layered aesthetic that feels fresh and intentional. This idea is all about maximizing beauty without taking up floor or surface space.
13. Candle Holder Terrarium
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Got an unused hurricane candle holder or glass cloche? It might just be your next favorite terrarium container.
Candle holder terrariums are charmingly compact and perfect for small plants like succulents, mini orchids, or even faux greenery if you prefer a zero-maintenance option. Their clear domes naturally highlight the contents inside, creating a museum-like display.
To style one, place a bit of gravel and soil at the base, add your plant or decorative elements, then gently set the glass dome over the top. Some candle holders are tall enough to house layered designs or vertical plants for added drama.
These terrariums are ideal for coffee tables, bookshelves, or sideboards. They’re especially lovely for seasonal displays—think pinecones and holly in winter or pastel blooms in spring.
With their elegant silhouette and soft curves, candle holder terrariums blend well with modern patio furniture and add a warm, curated vibe to your space. And let’s be honest—they’re just fun to decorate and redecorate throughout the year.
14. Zen Garden Terrarium
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For those craving calm and simplicity, a Zen garden terrarium is the perfect fusion of greenery and mindfulness.
Inspired by Japanese rock gardens, this terrarium style typically includes sand, smooth stones, moss, and minimalist greenery such as bamboo or air plants. Add a tiny rake to create sand patterns for a meditative activity you can return to again and again.
The layout should be open and balanced—nothing too cluttered or overgrown. This design works best in shallow trays or wide, open containers, and is particularly well-suited for office desks, meditation corners, or back porch reading nooks.
Zen garden terrariums offer both aesthetic and emotional benefits. They serve as tiny sanctuaries of peace that help quiet the mind in moments of stress.
For outdoor living enthusiasts, a Zen terrarium complements a peaceful patio setup, especially when surrounded by natural wood accents or soft lighting. It’s simplicity at its finest—and beauty in its most grounded form.
15. DIY Terrarium Kit Display
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Want to combine a fun DIY project with lasting decor? Try a terrarium kit display—a ready-made experience that you (or your loved ones) can assemble and admire.
Terrarium kits come with everything you need: container, stones, soil, plants, and instructions. Some even include cute extras like crystals, fairy lights, or figurines to personalize your mini world.
These kits make great gifts for birthdays, holidays, or self-care Saturdays. Once assembled, they become long-lasting displays that can be placed anywhere—entryways, window ledges, back porches, or even bathroom counters.
Many kits also cater to specific aesthetics, from beachy boho to minimalist modern, making it easy to find one that complements your decor. And because it’s a DIY activity, the process is just as enjoyable as the finished product.
Not to mention, you’ll feel a sense of pride every time you see your creation—an instant boost to both your space and your spirit.
16. Terrarium with LED Fairy Lights
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Add a touch of sparkle to your greenery by incorporating LED fairy lights into your terrarium setup.
This enchanting idea works beautifully with both open and closed terrariums. Wind battery-operated fairy lights through moss, branches, or among air plants to create a soft, glowing ambiance. You can also opt for lights with a timer function so they turn on automatically at night.
The effect is dreamy and romantic, making these terrariums perfect for evening patios, bedside tables, or holiday displays. Place one on your outdoor coffee table to enjoy during cozy summer nights with friends and family.
Fairy light terrariums are also a hit for parties and events. They make gorgeous centerpieces that don’t wilt or fade—just replace the batteries, and the glow goes on.
This magical upgrade turns an everyday plant display into something truly unforgettable, blending nature and light in the most whimsical way.
17. Large Floor-Standing Terrarium
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Want to go bold? A floor-standing terrarium brings grandeur to your greenery.
These oversized designs often use tall glass cases, aquariums, or even vintage display cabinets repurposed for plant life. They’re large enough to house multiple plant varieties, decorative stones, wood pieces, and more—essentially, they become living furniture.
Place one near your patio doors, at the end of a hallway, or in a sunny corner of your living room. For outdoor living spaces, consider placing a sealed version in a shaded area of your back porch to create a year-round green focal point.
The size of these terrariums allows for true creativity. Think jungle-inspired layers, fairy gardens with walking paths, or zen arrangements with cascading greenery.
Though more effort to set up, the impact is well worth it. A floor-standing terrarium not only serves as a stunning statement piece but also makes your home feel more connected to the natural world.
18. Herb Garden Terrarium
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If you’re a home cook or a fresh herb enthusiast, a herb garden terrarium adds flavor to both your meals and your decor.
Select a medium-to-large open container that allows airflow. Choose culinary herbs like thyme, oregano, basil, or parsley—herbs that thrive in well-draining soil and sunlight. Arrange them with small stones and label each plant for a clean, organized look.
Place your herb terrarium near a bright kitchen window, or outdoors on your back porch for easy access while cooking. The convenience of snipping fresh herbs from a beautiful container can’t be beat.
Not only does this terrarium smell amazing, but it’s also practical. And with the right care, it’ll provide you with months of fresh seasoning and a daily dose of greenery.
Add a chalkboard sign or a rustic wooden tray underneath for a little farmhouse flair, and you’ve got both decor and utility in one tidy package.
19. Faux Plant Terrarium
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Love the look of terrariums but not the upkeep? A faux plant terrarium offers all the style without any maintenance.
Start with a stylish container—geometric glass, a vintage jar, or a hanging globe—and fill it with lifelike artificial plants. Today’s faux greenery is incredibly realistic, with textures and shades that mimic the real thing.
Add in decorative rocks, preserved moss, and faux succulents to complete the scene. Because there’s no worry about soil or drainage, you can get creative with layering and layout.
Faux terrariums are perfect for darker areas of your home, such as bathrooms or windowless nooks, where real plants wouldn’t thrive. They’re also great for second homes or vacation properties where you want something pretty but don’t visit often.
This option provides all the charm of a lush terrarium—zero watering required. It’s an ideal blend of form and function, especially for anyone who loves the look but lacks the time or interest in plant care.
Bringing It All Together
Terrariums are more than just decor—they’re tiny worlds of creativity, calm, and connection. Whether you’re drawn to lush ferns in vintage lanterns, the geometric beauty of succulents, or the quiet charm of a Zen garden, there’s a terrarium idea to match every style and space.
From stylish modern patio furniture pairings to cozy indoor corners, these versatile displays help blur the line between inside and out—enhancing your home with greenery that fits your lifestyle.
So go ahead—grab a container, gather your materials, and let your imagination take root. These 19 terrarium ideas are here to inspire you, whether you’re decorating your back porch, refreshing your living room, or gifting a friend something green and meaningful.
Because when you bring nature inside, every day feels a little more alive.
