What is Wabi-sabi design, and where did it come from?
Wabi-sabi is a Japanese aesthetic and a way of looking at the world that is often associated with minimalism. Three characteristics traditionally define Wabi-Sabi:
1. Imperfect, impermanent and incomplete
2. Embracing rustic qualities and earthy tones
3. Things are beautiful because of their flaws and, therefore, more valuable
Not surprisingly, Wabi-sabi interior design tends to be simplistic and often rustic. It’s about appreciating natural, handmade items and creating a space that is warm, inviting, and simplistic. This design technique has undoubtedly taken the world by storm, and its popularity only seems to be increasing. Yet to truly adopt this design trend into your home, it can often be a complex process and one that requires research and understanding.
Simple ways to incorporate Wabi-sabi into your home
Wabi-sabi has been called the architecture of imperfection, and that’s one of the reasons why it’s a perfect fit for anyone who wants to make their home a more peaceful, comfortable space. It can be easy to let your room become filled with clutter, but Wabi-sabi offers a simple way to keep it clean and organised. Here are our ideas for ways you can incorporate this design into your home:
Broken pottery? Try Kintsugi – Kintsugi is the art form of fixing broken pottery with gold or silver. The idea behind this is to preserve your objects instead of throwing them away—a perfect fit for Wabi-sabi imperfection.
Draw on natural colours – Wabi-sabi embraces the earth and draws on the natural colours you see outside. Try using natural Aylesbury tiles to give your kitchen or bathroom an earthy feel. Use similar colours on your walls, so your home structure doesn’t detract from your beautiful surroundings.
Think about your lighting – Continuing with the natural theme in mind, embrace and enhance as much natural light in your home as possible. Not only will this give you a bright and airy feel to your home, but you may even save on the electricity bill if you increase your natural light! Think about lightweight linen shades or drapes instead of thick and heavy curtains that block out the sun.
Finally – take a no-fuss approach – The beautiful benefit of Wabi-sabi is that homes are not meant to be perfect. Don’t worry about minor scuff marks or older furniture. Embrace your Wabi-sabi sense of style and learn that your home can still be beautiful even with old or worn items. Fresh and clean is a better approach than perfection.
Be content with where you are and what you have in your life
In our modern-day society, many people are obsessed with finding happiness that they will continue looking for it, even after they may have it already. Happiness is an emotion, and just like our other emotions, we experience happiness at different times. It can often be fleeting! Incorporating Wabi-sabi into your home and life means finding a sense of contentment and understanding the simple things in life that may actually bring us the most happiness. It isn’t about the latest car or the biggest holiday, but instead being comfortable – being content!
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