Zen design embodies this minimalist philosophy,
making use of natural materials, patterns of light and space. A Zen home is
meant to be relaxing, contemplative and visually balanced and appealing.
Go for earthy colours
A Zen inspired design
is all about using natural and earthy colors, in soft tones, such as white,
grey, shades of beige or pink beige, which have the power to induce a sense of
relaxation and calmness. To create diversity combine two matching colors
or play with degrades of your favorite color.
Place softness at your feet
Parquet is always a safe choice, as well as any
massive wooden flooring and are the best option for your feet. White, greyish
or any light earthy tone colored parquets are especially preferred but you can
also choose colored parquet provided it matches with the interior and colors
of the rest of the room.
Choose natural and light fabrics
Fabrics should stick to the same rule of natural,
light and comfortable. Always give them a special effect and go for natural
textiles, such as linen, wool or fabric and match them with the rest of the
room. Light and natural tone colours will always keep the rooms calm and cool.
Play with soft and natural light
For a fully relaxing space, replace harsh lights
with calming, nature-inspired or candle lights. Place different sources of
light which will allow you to control the intensity and the areas to be lightened
and take all possibilities to mix a floor lamp, a lamp set and indirect light.
Keep furniture simple and natural
Zen style furniture is summarised by its simplicity
and clear lines, and to avoid such complicated detail and excess ornamentation.
The furniture should be of high quality and made of natural materials as these
bring a sense of warmth and relaxation.
Keep ornaments and decorations to a minimum
For wall decorations there is the same word of
order: simplicity and minimal. Avoid collections of paintings or photos and
keep only those that are especially dear to you. Making the walls congested
just because the wall is empty is not a Zen philosophy.
Remove electronic disturbances
Electronic devices are most often a source of
distraction and therefore do not integrate in a fully Zen decor. For instance
if you need a TV set in the bedroom make sure you place it in a discrete area
or hide it in a specially designed cupboard.
Bring in calmness with green plants
Plants always have a calming effect with their
soothing green colors and by providing oxygen which excludes suffocated
background. However, avoid flowers which need special maintenance or may
emanate disturbing scents. Since it is a Japanese influenced style Bonsai trees
or hanging terrariums makes a good choice.
Eliminate clutter
Keep the use of accessories to a minimum or
eliminate them altogether if not needed, as clutter can inhibit relaxation.
Clear your room with not using many items as possible and keep only the
essentials, but you are free to add whatever to bring you extra comfort.
