July 25, 2025
Shop stories: Explore Greenlab Collective in Elsternwick Village
Greenlab Collective is a sanctuary for nature lovers and plant enthusiasts alike, and you can find this unique plant haven located in Elsternwick Village.
Created by owner Michael Samara, this unique botanical boutique offers a carefully curated selection of terrariums, indoor plants, homewares, and creative gifts – all housed in a space that feels more like a tranquil retreat than a traditional shop.
Mr Samara’s journey into the world of terrariums started as a simple hobby. Fascinated by the art of creating miniature ecosystems, he began crafting terrariums in his spare time and selling them at arts and crafts markets. As his passion grew, it became clear that there was demand for something more permanent. That vision came to life in January 2025 when Mr Samara opened the doors to Greenlab Collective in the heart of Elsternwick Village.
Today, Greenlab Collective stands as a testament to Mr Samara’s creative spirit and love for nature – a space where people can reconnect with greenery, slow down, and take home something that feels both personal and inspiring.
Terrarium specialist
At the heart of Greenlab Collective is its speciality: handmade terrariums. These are not your average pot plants – terrariums are self-contained gardens, housed in glass vessels and designed to mimic natural environments in miniature form.
“It’s a little bit more than a pot plant – it’s more like a miniature landscape in a container,” Mr Samara explained.
“It can remind people of being in nature or being at some sort of location that they like going to, and it allows them to connect to nature. Especially if you live in an apartment and don’t have access to much greenery.”
From domes set on wooden bases to hanging glass balls, atrium vases, and egg-shaped containers, each terrarium at Greenlab Collective is carefully crafted by hand – and no two are ever the same.
Customers can choose from ready-made terrariums, perfect for gifts or home styling, or opt for a do-it-yourself kit that includes everything needed to build their own green escape.
Mr Samara sources all the components himself, including soil, succulents, moss, decorative stones and more, making it easy for plant lovers to get started.
“It is very therapeutic,” he said, noting how popular the DIY kits have become. And it’s not just about aesthetics – customers often return to share how meaningful their terrarium has become.
“I’ve had a few customers come back just to say how much joy their terrarium brings them, or how it helped them reconnect with nature in a small way. It’s moments like that that make it really worthwhile,” Mr Samara said.
A haven for indoor plant lovers
While terrariums are the star of the show, Greenlab Collective offers much more. Visitors will find a thoughtfully curated selection of indoor plants – from delicate orchids to miniature bonsai trees – as well as a rotating range of decorative pots, planters, and stylish homewares including clocks, crystals and framed, hand-drawn artworks.
“The range is always changing, so there’s something new each time you visit,” Mr Samara said.
He describes the store as an evolving concept, one that has grown beyond its initial roots.
“I’ve always loved working with plants, especially terrariums and bonsai, and I wanted to create a space that felt different – something moody, earthy, and a bit unexpected,” Mr Samara said.
“It began with a focus on handmade terrariums, but it’s grown into a curated store with indoor plants, crystals, homewares, and more. Everything is selected to create a calming and creative vibe, and I think that’s what draws people in.”
Unique in-store experience
Indeed, one of the most memorable aspects of Greenlab Collective is the in-store experience. The space is carefully designed to feel immersive and atmospheric – a world away from the usual bright and airy garden shop.
“The store has a really distinct atmosphere – we’ve got herringbone flooring, warm wood tones, and dark green painted walls, which gives it a cosy, moody feel. It’s not your typical bright plant shop, it’s more curated and immersive, like stepping into a miniature indoor jungle,” Mr Samara said.
The aroma of fresh soil, moss, and natural materials adds to the ambiance.
“A lot of people stop and say, ‘Wow, it smells amazing in here’, or they’ll comment on the calm vibe and how different it feels from other shops. The darker tones, the lighting, and the greenery all help set that tone,” Mr Samara said.
Customers are encouraged to explore the space at their own pace.
“We give them [customers] some time to explore. We have such a large product range, so people come in and get overwhelmed sometimes. We go with a gentle approach, and then answer any questions if our customers want to know more,” Mr Samara said.
For those who want to delve deeper, the store also hosts terrarium workshops – giving visitors the chance to learn how to craft their own miniature world and connect more personally with the practice.
“It’s been really positive. The local support has been lovely — people are genuinely curious and often stop in for a chat, even if they’re not looking to buy anything that day,” Mr Samara said.
“I’ve also started running terrarium workshops here in the shop, which has been a great way to connect with the community and share what I do in a more hands-on way.”
Whether you’re a seasoned plant lover, looking for a one-of-a-kind gift, or simply craving a moment of greenery in your day, Greenlab Collective offers a refreshing escape from the everyday – right in the heart of Elsternwick Village.
