Everyday life can be so full of hustle and bustle that you would give anything to get away from it at times. Taking a weekend getaway isn’t the only way to do this though. You can actually create a haven of peace right in your own home and this can give you untold amounts of relaxation every single day. To do this, you might want to take a look at some of the Zen principles and how they relate to interior design.
While you might be familiar with the term ‘Zen’, you might not know its true meaning. It is actually a practice used by Buddhists in meditation to help them achieve the ultimate awareness. So what does it have to do with interior decorating? It will have to do with the harmony and balance of the furnishings and accessories in your home. Spaces that utilize Zen are ones that are not filled with clutter. They are organized and peaceful. Let’s take a quick look at a few of the staples of Zen décor and how they can help you be more relaxed in your own home.
Materials that are Natural
Embracing Zen means to embrace warm materials used in a minimalist way. Relaxation and harmony can both be achieved by bringing a softer touch to minimalism by using materials that are found in nature. Think sculptural greenery, wood accents and maybe even a natural fiber area rug here.
Touch and Color
When it comes to rugs, wool is a material that is soft and it can provide you with a true feeling of comfort. Additionally, carpets that have been created from nothing but cotton can put that finishing touch on your home décor. Keep in mind that Zen décor uses a monochromatic type of color palette so as not to overwhelm the sense of balance and harmony. Carpets and rugs should be in neutral colors like khaki, gray or beige.
Fabrics
When it comes to window dressings, choose more natural fabrics. Linen or even wool curtains can give you a more intimate look while also serving to reduce drafts of air. Wool curtains or window dressings can also serve to hold the heat in during those long, cold winter months. Make sure that your window dressings blend in with the overall palette of the room.
Light It Up
Don’t be afraid to play with the lighting. See how you enjoy light that is diffused, such as that you can get from placing lighted paper lanterns in the room. Doing this, as opposed to having a single light source, means that the light is softer and more consistent throughout the space, which in turn makes it a more relaxing place to be. Also consider using candles for lighting, and/or essential oil burners equipped with scents that are all natural.
Furnishings
Make sure that any furnishings in your Zen space are simple and steer clear of all types of ornamentation. In order to generate peace and warmth, ensure that the furnishings are made from materials that are both natural and of high quality and that they are in colors that blend well with everything else in that space.
Foliage
Bring the outdoors inside with plants throughout the room. This not only give the room a more soothing quality, it also provides you with a continuous supply of fresh air. Plants that look simple will be the best options for your Zen space.
By following what you have learned here today, you can have your Zen style and décor right at your fingertips when you need to relax and unwind from the day.
