With more of us working from home post-pandemic, we could all do with a little more Asian Zen in our lives. But what exactly is Zen?
Zen is the Japanese translation of the Sanskrit word meditation, describing a meditation-based Buddhism practised by millions of people.
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However, ‘Zen’ in interior design is different, referring to balance, peace, harmony, tranquillity and relaxation. A room has ‘Zen’ when it has positive energy and makes us comfortable. Zen in interior design creates a laid-back environment – somewhere we can escape everyday life’s stresses.
If all that sounds too spiritual for you, consider the feelings you get when you close your eyes by the ocean and listen to waves crashing to shore. Zen gives you that feeling at home.
Defining Zen
Zen refers to Japanese meditation – Zen interior design evokes that sense of meditation in a space, making a sanctuary without having to close your eyes. Japanese designers use Zen to create minimalist spaces that are functional and light.
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A little Asian Zen could transform your life if you feel stressed and anxious at home. We’ve listed all the elements you need to follow below.
The Elements Of Asian Zen In Interior Design
Minimalism
Zen design has an absence of elements. Minimalism is the key, so keeping things simple is vital to achieving Rirakuzēshon (relaxation).
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Here are the key focus areas for minimalism:
- Clean lines
- Organic shapes
- Monochromatic colours
- Open plan living
- No clutter
- Clear floors
- Lots of natural light
- Bare essentials furniture
Read our advice guide on minimalism for more ideas.
White Walls
Zen interiors have white walls, plain and simple. You can use subtle textured wallpaper and patterns to create personality, but white is the colour of choice.
If you want a splash of colour on walls, limit colour to one feature wall per room and choose something light, like pastel blue or pastel green.
Whitespace
Whitespace is negative space – the space between elements. Maximising whitespace helps achieve minimalism and brings balance to spaces.
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Zen meditation frees the mind, so your space should free elements. Whether it’s the distance between your bed and a palm tree or the space between artwork and shelves, more whitespace is a good thing for Zen.
Low Furniture
Low furniture takes up less visual space and creates the sensation of sinking into the room, helping you form a deeper connection with your home.
A great way to get that sensation would be to use beanbags as your seating options. They’re ideal for relaxing in and will help to with the visual space too. Plus, if you get one that’s also water resistant, you can use it as garden seating in the summer months as well. Ideal for all this hot weather we’ve having lately without having to buy more furniture for every individual room. Multi-purpose furniture is the way to go, especially if you don’t like clutter!
Organic Materials & Shapes
Organic materials like wood, stone, marble, rattan, wicker and straw are a match made in heaven for Zen interiors because they beautifully contrast white walls without interrupting the space’s flow and energy.
In addition to organic materials, organic shapes are an essential part of Zen design, helping soften the space and making it welcoming.
Living Nature
Nature is a fundamental element of Zen interior design because it connects you to the natural world. Without it, you can’t be in touch with Mother Earth.
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You can incorporate nature into your home in two ways – either bring it inside with plants and Bonsai trees or open up your windows to make a lovely view.
We love Bonsai trees because they last forever when looked after. Beginners should check out the hardy Chinese Elm and Ficus Ginseng.
Lots Of Light
Zen interiors make clever use of light to create a sense of airiness, and you don’t have to break the bank to do it.
A simple trick is to banish curtains and install white blinds, which let you direct and diffuse sunlight into your room by tilting the blinds.
You can install brighter bulbs and combine white and yellow bulbs to blend cool and warm light. Or why not try smart bulbs that change colour? A hint of purple, yellow, blue or pink will transform your Zen bedroom on a whim.
How would you incorporate Asian zen into your home?
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