I just can't seem to keep plants alive for any more than a few months. Are there any places you would recommend for realistic-looking artificial plants?
Richard Coumbe replies: As a horticulturalist, I would always recommend real plants over fake. Before you invest in a whole range of artificial plants (which can be surprisingly pricey) have you tried some simple measures with your existing plants, such as moving them away from the sun or giving them a rest from air-conditioning?
If your mind is already made up, I would recommend a visit to Barbara Park at Plant A Park (46 Peel Street, Central. Tel: 2545 2929). She supplies a wide range of artificial plants to both domestic and commercial users (such as Pacific Place). For silk flowers, I would suggest An Extra Garden (Flat C & D, 6F Shun Wai Industrial Building, 15 Yuk Yat Street, To Kwa Wan. Tel: 2365 4214) or Yevette Collection (Unit 2614, 26F Horizon Plaza, 2 Lee Wing Street, Ap Lei Chau. Tel: 2817 2732).
Whatever you decide (and I'm assuming you want to create a realistic plant environment), make sure you don't mix real plants with artificial ones as the fakes will stand out.
I am studying interior design and was wondering which magazines and books you might recommend to enhance my knowledge of the subject? Plus where I can get hold of them?
Tania Chow replies: For a more decorative insight, British Elle Decoration and World of Interiors magazines cover interesting and inspirational residential projects worldwide. Elle is particularly strong on trends and hip homes while WOI concentrates on richly decorated mansions and chateaux.
