❝Home is not just where you live, it’s where you thrive. It’s where you feel a sense of belonging, a sense of warmth and comfort❞ - Unknown
There are many types of interior design and each style consists of distinctive furniture, decors, lighting, and accessories that give it its signature look. By getting to know some of the most popular styles, you’ll better understand what styles stand out to you and meet your preferences. A quote mentioned how home is a place where you sense belonging, warmth and comfort which brings us to today’s “Know Your Interior Design Style Series”. Today, we will be discussing an interior design style that represents a specific style which draws inspiration from the idea of Zen seen amongst Asian homes. If you haven’t guessed what it is, it’s the asian zen interior design style.
What is Asian Zen interior design? Asian Zen interior design aims to create a calm and balanced atmosphere in your home by emphasizing simplicity and tranquility. It takes inspiration from Zen philosophy and the natural elements often seen in Asian homes. The result is a style that is minimalistic yet rich in texture and depth. Having been mentioned a few times by now, you must be wondering what exactly is this Zen philosophy which became the inspiration of this style. The word "Zen" comes from the Japanese pronunciation of "Ch'an," which itself is based on the Chinese pronunciation of "Dhyana," a Sanskrit term meaning meditation. Nowadays, "Zen" refers to being aware of our place in the world and feeling peaceful in our minds.
Most commonly associated with countries in East Asia, particularly Japan, China, and Korea. However, the influence of Zen aesthetics has spread globally, and many people around the world incorporate elements of Asian Zen design into their homes and spaces. Not only does this interior design style have cultural influence, Asian Zen design emphasizes simplicity, natural elements, and clean lines, creating environments conducive to relaxation and peace of mind. Creating such environments that promote well-being and good health, it also has a lasting appeal by using timeless elegance and simplicity.
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Like how every other interior design style has their own characteristics, the same goes for this interior design style. Taking inspiration from Zen philosophy, commonly associated with East Asia, and mostly seen in Asian homes, we will now discuss a few ways to incorporate Asian Zen style in your home!
1. Choose a natural color palette
To enhance the serene ambiance of this style, neutral and natural hues in soft tones are preferred as primary and secondary colors, such as white, various shades of beige, or gray. When it comes to accents, while still rooted in natural colors, bolder hues like green, yellow, orange, and blue can be incorporated to add depth and interest to the space.
2. Use natural materials and fabrics
In Zen-inspired spaces, choosing natural textiles over synthetic ones celebrates the connection to nature while enhancing comfort and coziness. Popular fabrics like linen, cotton, and wool can be used from curtains to throw pillows, adding to the relaxed ambiance at home.
3. Add some greenery and natural elements
Plants are essential for Asian Zen interiors, providing a calming effect and adding soothing greens to the palette. Popular choices include bonsai trees, bamboo, snake grass, and dracaena plants. Aside from plants, rocks or pebbles along with water features, can also promote relaxation and a connection to nature.
4. Find appropriate lighting
Asian Zen interiors usually use natural sunlight and ambient lighting. While large windows and open spaces are ideal, smaller light sources offer flexibility to adjust intensity and ambiance according to your needs and mood, such as floor lamps, table lamps, Japanese lanterns, and candles are common in Zen lighting.
5. Keep your Asian Zen home minimalist
Asian Zen interiors keep things simple to help you feel calm and balanced. To start, it's important to declutter your space. This means getting rid of unnecessary things and only keeping items that are truly important or meaningful to you. By keeping your surroundings clean and tidy, you can create a peaceful atmosphere to relax and unwind.
6. Choose streamlined furniture
To maintain a minimalist vibe without clutter, opt for furniture with clean, simple lines. Avoid ornate details and focus on fewer, higher-quality pieces. Consider Japanese-style low-to-ground furniture for an authentic Asian Zen look. Not only does it promote visual flow and balance, but it also encourages a grounded feeling in your space.
7. Consider going barefoot
Walking barefoot indoors helps you feel connected to nature and grounded. Choose flooring like wood, resin, or neutral carpet that's safe to walk on without shoes. If you don't want to change your whole floor, try adding natural rugs made of cotton, wool, or straw for extra comfort and a natural feel.
8. Incorporate some Asian Zen elements
For some inspiration, consider incorporating these distinctive Asian Zen elements into your space such as sliding doors for a minimalist touch, room dividers to create designated areas, adding a rock garden or a sand raking table for added tranquility. These elements not only capture the essence of Asian Zen style but also contribute to a serene and harmonious atmosphere in your home.
After knowing some tips on how to incorporate this culturally influenced interior design, do you want to give it a try? Of course you can! Here we will share some ideas you can use that can inspire you to embrace this new lifestyle and help bring in calm and serenity into your home.
1. Zen style living room with floor level furniture
In a zen-inspired living room, low-lying furniture especially with oak furniture and accent are crucial for creating the right ambiance. Set up a low coffee table and complement it with stylish floor mats, cushions, and futons. Stick to calm colors like beige or off-white to enhance the tranquility of your space. Decorate with vases and natural elements like dried branches to enhance the zen vibe. Balance natural light with soft accent lighting or floor lamps for a harmonious atmosphere.
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2. Zen style dining room with bold statement
The modern zen interior design focuses on harmony and flexibility, making it widely loved and adaptable. You can incorporate vibrant wall colors, but balance them with spacious Japanese-style windows, pendant lights, and floor lamps. In this contemporary dining room, a low table and four legless chairs are featured. Authentic yet stylish elements like a sword lamp, a bonsai tree on the table, and tatami mats on the floor complete the Japanese zen house design.
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3. Zen style bedroom with a low bed
Featuring a low platform bed with an LED-lit headboard, wooden floors, white walls, and a simple floor mat with subtle accents, this Zen-inspired bedroom transforms into a peaceful oasis where you can escape from the stresses of everyday life. The earthy colors, simple lines, and uncluttered decor promote a stress-free environment. Incorporating indoor plants and candles enhances the overall calming atmosphere.
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4. Zen style natural interior for modern bathroom
Zen interior design incorporates traditional elements such as wood, earth, fire, metal, and water, which can be seamlessly integrated into modern bathroom spaces. Consider incorporating wooden drawers and earth-toned wall tiles to harmonize the overall look. Adding indoor plants, maintaining clean lines, and keeping the space clutter-free contribute to the serene atmosphere. If space allows, placing a bathtub beside the window can enhance relaxation.
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That is all our discussion about asian zen interior design! What do you think of this interior design style? Is it your preference? Consult your dream house with Livvy Luxury Living! Contact us on Whatsapp : +62 878 6894 8000 or visit us at 18 Office Park 25th floor Suite A, Jalan Simatupang Kav 18, South Jakarta.
Content Writer : Arcelia Emmanuella Adiwinata