Believe it or not, Zen Interior Design is a thing. Zen is a way of life. Extremely personal and incredibly minimalist, Zen design embraces muted tones, a less-is-more philosophy, natural materials, a play of light and shadows and downright rejection of clutter; all in order to achieve a home that is devoid of noise and stress. A visually pleasing and balanced space that is relaxing and calming, and puts both the mind and body at ease.
Zen interior design has many benefits, the most significant of which is its contribution to health and mental wellbeing. Being in a warm, earthy and soothing space automatically rests the mind, clearing clutter and easing stress and tension. The elimination of stress improves immunity in inhabitants and forms a protective barrier against stress-related diseases and health issues that are common in today’s society. But most importantly, a Zen home is an escape from the outside world that brings relief, without having to travel far and wide to find relaxation.
Here are some tips on creating a Zen space that facilitates spiritual, mental and physical wellbeing…
Neutral Hues
As always, picking a colour theme first will help one set up up a cohesive space. And when it comes to Zen interior design, the only colour scheme on offer is neutral, earthy tones. Both dark and light woods, in combination with white, cream, beige and brown is the best route to take. If you’re feeling a little adventurous, a touch of yellow or a pale pink, and a hint of black for a modern feel can be incorporated, but these elements should be small and unimposing.
Natural Elements
When choosing furniture or decorative pieces, opt for natural materials like wood, sea grass, rattan and bamboo. Simple furniture with effortless lines and curves and organic designs will fit seamlessly into a Zen space. For books, knickknacks and storage, place vertical wooden shelves against walls and make sure each shelf is neatly arranged and not over-crowded. Stay away from plastic at all costs as this will effectively stand out in a Zen space and puncture the vibe.
Flooring Flourish
Zen living means walking barefoot and connecting with the ground as much as possible. To this end, flooring matters. Again, choosing to go with wooden flooring is ideal. If not, light hued marble flooring works just as well. The flooring should be soft to the touch and smooth. Ensuring an unhindered glide contributes to overall calmness. To further warm up a space, place earthy-toned low-pile rugs in areas where most of the family’s time is spent.
Minimal Electronics
We are not suggesting eliminating electronics completely, but placing them inconspicuously will help maintain the serenity of a space. You can have the TV placed within in a wall-to-ceiling unit, and have speakers placed behind lamps on decorative vases. All wires should be concealed or neatly tucked away in baskets to avoid the cluttered feel coiled wires lend to a room.
Less is More
Often when occasions roll around, we’re gifted large showpieces or décor ornaments to be placed around the home. However, a Zen space requires decorative elements to be kept to the minimum so as not to distract from the calm vibe of the room. To accentuate the beauty of a space, use candles, Himalayan salt lamps and stone decorations to keep things within the earthy mood.
Pleasing Plants
Greenery is an instant mood-lifter and stress-easer and should be taken very seriously. It is one of the most important elements in a Zen space. Not only do live indoor plants help purify the air we breathe, they also bring a touch of colour, refresh the space with their presence and are evocative of growth, new life, freshness and natural beauty which have a positive impact on the psyche of the inhabitants of a Zen home.