In the heart of Anacostia, a unique wellness initiative is taking root. Grounded, founded by Mignon Hemsley and Danuelle Doswell, is redefining urban wellness by combining a plant shop, café, and wellness studio in one innovative space.
Located at 1913 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave SE, Grounded is more than just a retail store; it is a sanctuary that merges the healing power of nature with self-care practices. This third space invites visitors to breathe, connect, and recharge in an environment that blends biophilic design with a focus on community wellness.
The mission of Grounded is deeply rooted in reconnecting people with nature to promote mental clarity, emotional well-being, and creativity. The initiative began during the pandemic as an e-commerce platform and has now evolved into a physical location that embodies a therapeutic philosophy. Doswell states, “Our vision has always been about creating a space where people can slow down, reconnect to nature to elevate their wellness, and feel grounded. Opening this location in Anacostia is a dream come true as we extend this mission in a community that inspires us.”
Upon entering Grounded, visitors are welcomed by a tranquil atmosphere designed in collaboration with Drummond Projects. The space features natural elements like integrated planter boxes, concrete and rock accents, rich wood materials, and soothing green hues, exemplifying the principles of biophilic design.
At the heart of Grounded is the plant shop, which offers a curated selection of houseplants aimed at enhancing well-being. The team of Plant Specialists provides guidance to customers on how to integrate greenery into their homes and offices. They also offer Planterior Design Services, bringing their expertise directly to clients’ spaces.
For Hemsley, COO and Creative Director, the opening of Grounded holds personal significance. “I went to high school in Anacostia, and to now be launching Grounded here feels like a full circle moment for me. This neighborhood has shaped me in so many ways, and I’m excited to give back by creating a space where people can experience the healing power of nature and community.”
Adjacent to the plant shop, the Grounded Café serves as a community hub and showcases plant-based nutrition. The fully vegan menu includes artisanal coffees sourced from Manos de Mujer, a woman-owned farm in Guatemala, and roasted by Others Coffee. Visitors can also enjoy high-grade matcha from Kettl, the first U.S.-based Japanese tea brand, along with a variety of herbal teas. The café features a range of plant-based pastries and signature toasts, including avocado, banana, strawberry, and a vegan version of salmon lox.
Grounded’s commitment to holistic wellness extends beyond plants and nutrition. The on-site Wellness Studio offers a diverse array of practices designed to nourish the mind, body, and spirit. Classes include yoga, meditation, breathwork, sound bowl therapy, reiki, and pilates, all focused on fostering gratitude, abundance, and mindfulness.
Founded on Earth Day 2020, Grounded began as an e-commerce platform with a mission to reconnect people with nature. Over the past four years, the founders have shipped more than 30,000 plants across the U.S. and partnered with over 100 organizations, including tech companies like Google and Meta, to promote the benefits of greenery in corporate environments.
With its first physical location, Grounded is set to elevate its mission further. The space serves as a community hub where people can work, relax, and connect, featuring ample seating and WiFi for remote work or study sessions, all amidst the calming presence of plants.
For Anacostia and the broader D.C. area, Grounded symbolizes a significant development: a Black-owned business that not only serves the community but actively works to uplift it. By prioritizing wellness, connection, and the healing power of nature, Hemsley and Doswell are sowing the seeds of change that promise to blossom into something beautiful.
