How to Create a Zen Room

Incorporate elements of nature into your Zen room.

A Zen room is about more than relaxation, although spending time in such a room most likely brings you peace of mind. Zen interior decor is based on the principle "Wabi-sabi," which is roughly translated to mean simplicity and a rustic elegance. Natural components, asymmetry, subtle or mysterious meaning, and the absence of worldly temptations are components of this traditional Japanese style of decor. As you design your room or house in Zen fashion, remember that the absence of objects is just as or even more important than the presence of them.

Things You'll Need

• Floor stain, natural color
• Paint, natural shades or pastels
• Painting supplies
• Tatami mat or flooring
• Furniture
• Accessories such as bamboo, mini Zen garden or scroll
• Bamboo shades or natural fabric curtains

Instructions

1. Take everything out of the room and start from scratch, because less is more according to Zen philosophy.

2. Add natural colors and materials to the walls and floors. This may involve ripping up the carpet and exposing the wooden floor. For floors, apply a natural brown stain rather than a glossy varnish. Paint the walls a subtle pastel or natural shade such as sky blue, light green or beige.

3. Incorporate a full tatami floor covering or a small-sized mat of the same rice-straw material.

4. Add only necessary furnishings. If you are creating a Zen bedroom, use just a bed and side table. For a living room, consider a low-to-the-ground table and pillows for sitting.

5. Minimally decorate the room. To incorporate some natural accessories, add a simple vase of bamboo or dried flowers, or a clear bowl with stones. Hang a traditional Japanese scroll with characters that have special meaning to you.

6. Expose natural light by only partially covering the windows with bamboo shades or curtains made of natural fabrics.

7. Add anything that relaxes you to the room, such as a small water fountain, a Zen sand garden or soothing music. Avoid introducing anything that distracts you from the present moment, such as a television or computer.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid symmetry as much as possible. For example, if you are hanging two pieces on the wall, do not arrange them at equal distances from the center of the wall.

References

• "Living Zen"; Michael Paul and Yuko Murata; 2000
• Freshome Interior Design & Architecture: How to Add Relaxing Zen Inspired Decor to Your Home
• Asian Lifestyle Design; How to Create a Zen Room; Jenny Nakao Hones; July 2011
• Mother Earth News; Zen Principles for a Good Home; Robyn Griggs Lawrence; April 2011