We have already told you about hygge, Feng Shui interiors, as well as how eco-style and natural motifs penetrate the philosophy of modern interiors. Another style based on the nature theme is Wabi-sabi.
What is Wabi-sabi?
The Wabi-sabi style, or “beauty in imperfections,” is a “cousin” of Japanese minimalism. This style is changing, dynamic and reflects the life path of the home’s occupants.
In fact, this trend in design is the result of Asian interior traditions and influenced to the smallest detail by the lifestyle of Zen Buddhists. The interior trend originates from the east and is based on the principles of ergonomics and environmental friendliness.
The creation of an emotional interior under the influence of the sophisticated Japanese worldview – Wabi-sabi, prompts us to pay attention to every detail in the space. If we try to translate the phrase wabi-sabi, then literally it will mean calmness, simplicity and modesty.
The Japanese call this style – the contemplation of genuine beauty. The beauty with which simple, even aged things are dressed, wonderful as they are. In every single centimeter of them you can feel the wisdom of time. From these items we learn something about the family history of the inhabitants.
This style gives up symmetry and regular shapes, giving its preference to natural casual curves. His philosophy lies in the refined combination of incompatible concepts, beauty in imperfections and richness in simplicity.
3 main characteristics of Wabi-sabi
The style of Wabi-sabi unconditionally creates visual purity and a very comfortable atmosphere. There are three main characteristics that define its essence, the natural universe: nothing is perfect, nothing is eternal, and nothing is complete. Three points that express the philosophy of life, in its essence.
The interior, at first glance, seems asymmetrical to us with its uneven surfaces and nondescript colors, but this gives it sensuality and draws attention to every detail.
Today, at the peak of its popularity, this style is ideal for people who:
- They are tired of endless vanity and seek peace;
- They prefer eternal values;
- The desire to decorate the interior with items with seasonal fashion is alien to them;
- They love decoration distinguished by personal meaning;
- They know how to enjoy what they have.
The interior furnishing in the Wabi-sabi style is laconic and is not a one-day fashion. We are talking about ancient rooms brought into a modern look (we are not talking about antiques). This can be:
- Solid wood cabinet;
- coffee table made of stone with a broken edge;
- rope swing.
Here it is important that the items have their own history and are filled with pleasant experiences for the owner. Among other things, hand-made objects and plants are welcome. In the design of such an interior, decoration from dry twigs is very often used. At the same time, it is necessary to observe the rules of minimalism. Items should be small and there must be plenty of free space. The lighting is diffused and dim.
The colors in the Wabi-sabi interior
The style is based on the natural color scheme of the “autumn garden” type: gray, beige, milky, brown, dark green, pale yellow.
When combining colors in Wabi-sabi interiors, monochrome light colors are usually used for the walls and dark colors for the furniture. With the help of light shades, the room becomes lighter and more spacious, and the rest of the colors fill it with tranquility and coziness. It is then that the desired harmony is achieved, which is observed in the natural world, untouched by destructive human activity.
Natural wood, stone, ceramics, leather, cotton, wool, linen – preference is given to natural materials.
The ability of the style to adapt is confirmed by the easy combination with modern interior objects and technologies.
A new perspective in the interior
Wabi-sabi style – beauty, consisting of necessary and functional items and accessories in the interior. The true philosophy of style, which is becoming more popular every day, reflects the need to return to a more intimate sense of space, in which an infinite amount of emotional stimuli intersect.
«… if the object can evoke in us a feeling of serenity, melancholy and spiritual delight, then we can say that it is Wabi-sabi!”
Andrew Juniper[:]
