Verve talks to Sandii and Kirsty of Babylon Store.
Can you tell us about the inspiration behind Babylon Store?
Being creatives and gardeners with serious addictions to plants led us down this wonderful adventure. It started with Babylon Gardens, the landscaping business, then Babylon Store, to create botanical offerings in beautiful, unusual pairings with vessels we couldn’t find easily anywhere else.
What do you think sets Babylon Store apart?
We don’t consider ourselves a garden centre or decor store, but a place of creativity where you can commission a one-off botanical artwork. A place where you can choose a pot and a plant you love then have it planted up and loaded into the car while you wait. Or a place where experts help to interior landscape your home with our site visits and full install service.
Can you tell us about your other items?
We offer other things you may want to use in your outdoor space, or need for inspiration, like beautiful books, garden lights, and selected tools. We also champion a few local jewellery-makers and artists who supply us with one-off pieces.
Can you also tell us about your workshops?
We have a lovely big potting bench where you can spend an afternoon learning how to create Japanese kokedama, how to strike a cutting, or make a succulent bowl. Classes sell out quickly, but we’re always adding more!
How has the community in St Heliers embraced Babylon Store?
For many, we’re a sanctuary to wander through for inspiration or to simply to enjoy the serenity. We’ve hosted variety of events like a charity art auction for I Am Hope, and take part in the annual Christmas Treats on Turua Street. Plus, we’ve recently run a vintage and sustainable clothing market from the store. We love the idea of bringing people to St Heliers Village to see what we offer.
What advice do you have for individuals just starting to explore indoor plant care?
Less is more from a watering perspective – rotting your plant is easy to do. Don’t be discouraged if a plant dies, sometimes they just need a different spot. Also, plants don’t really survive well with no light so if there’s no window in that bathroom, buy a vase instead!
Any special ideas for the upcoming gifting season?
Gift an experience such as a workshop or a site visit to give your home or patio a green revival. Or choose one of our pre-planted sets such as a succulent bowl for an outdoor table. Our one-off pieces of handcrafted pottery or jewellery make an amazing special gift, too.
Do you offer consultations for potted plants?
Yes! Our site visits are hands down the best way to get an amazing look in your home or office. We source, deliver, and install everything – so no mess, no hassle!
