The Art of Arrangement: Plants and Paintings Alike.
New Native Gardens is redefining the role of potted plants in design, transforming them from an afterthought into an essential layer of thoughtfully curated spaces. Founded in 2020 by brothers-in-law Matt McKenna and Jackson Giles, this Austin-based company specializes in high-end container plant design for homes and businesses, elevating interiors and exteriors with striking plant compositions and world-class planters. New Native Gardens offers a unique, design-driven approach that prioritizes artistry, quality, and longevity. The team meticulously sources handcrafted containers and selects plants that not only enhance a space but thrive within it. Just as New Native Gardens carefully curates bespoke arrangements to complement a space, CoCollect takes the same approach with art, ensuring that each piece is personal to the client and the space it inhabits.
Matt McKenna, the head of plant design for New Native Gardens, shared his insights on the thoughtful approach behind curating this collection.
“When I first looked at the art curated by CoCollect, I was instantly drawn to pieces that echoed what we do at New Native Gardens—nature, organic patterns, and thoughtful composition. As plant designers, our work is all about carefully choosing and arranging plants and containers to complement and enhance a space, very similar to how Co-Collect thoughtfully selects art for their clients’ homes. This shared passion for curating beautiful, intentional compositions is why CoCollect’s service resonates so strongly with us.
As I explored artworks from CoCollect’s collection, I naturally gravitated toward pieces filled with nature themes—plants, animals, insects—the kinds of things that fill my own home and inspire our professional designs. Nature gives endless inspiration, not only because it’s central to our business, but because its beauty and details create immediate connections and emotional responses. Many of the artworks I chose had clear, intentional patterns, much like how we combine plants and pots, thoughtfully arranging everything to achieve a balanced, attractive look.”
Matt’s Edit:
“Our work at New Native Gardens closely parallels CoCollect’s approach: we both curate and enhance spaces that furniture or appliances can’t fill. Just as carefully placed art transforms a room, the right plants and containers boost a home’s style, adding warmth and life to everyday spaces. We aim for the same museum-quality feel in our plant designs, always focusing on craftsmanship and personalization.”
“Looking back on our own projects, the similarities stand out. A vibrant Pencil Cactus arrangement we designed feels almost like living sculpture, attracting attention just like a carefully selected piece of art. Similarly, our Lava Vase with a funky Jade plant, or our collection of containers in a modern dining room, clearly show how plants can comfortably complement artwork. These examples vividly illustrate how art and plants can come together to enhance an entire space.”
Butch Anthony’s Little Blue Heron
Bradley Kerl’s All Day I Dream About… (ADIDAS Portal)
“I also liked the dreamy, slightly surreal feel in several of the artworks, since it matches my personal artistic style. When sketching or creating my own art, I often blend reality with a surreal touch. These pieces invite you to look deeper, similar to how a thoughtfully designed plant arrangement can spark curiosity and reflection.”
Carter Watkins’ Butterflies & Succulents Cape Buffaloa
JP Terlizzi’s Glen Jardin du Palais with Broccoli Tiger Beets
More of New Native Gardens’ designs seen below:
For more information follow New Native Gardens on Instagram. To work with New Native Gardens or view their portfolio, visit their website.
