How to Create a Sense of Zen in Your Home

If you want to bring a sense of serenity and tranquillity into your home, then the principles of Zen may be a good foundation upon which to set your design. By taking key principles of the Zen philosophy and applying them to interior design, you can create a beautifully serene and mindful environment – perfect for relaxing and centring yourself.

Zen Principles

There are seven commonly accepted principles of Zen design:

* Kanso: Simplicity.
* Fukinsei: Asymmetry or irregularity
* Shibumi: Beautiful understatement
* Shizen: Naturalness
* Yugen: Subtlety
* Datsuzoku: Freedom from habit
* Seijaku: Tranquillity or an energised calm

This may seem a lot to bear in mind with your design, but it is actually easier than you may think. Simplicity can be achieved by eliminating things which are unnecessary; keeping only that which you truly need and avoiding clutter. This also goes towards Seijaku, as eliminating clutter will help you achieve tranquillity.

Fire as a Feature

A fireplace can create a stunning feature in a Zen design; flames are both a natural element and one which moves with asymmetry and irregularity, which fulfils two of the principles. The act of watching the flames, too, can evoke a sense of calm energy, perfect for engaging in meditative thought. Whether you choose to include a fire for the warmth it provides, for its light, or for its aesthetic beauty, it is a perfect inclusion.

Colours & Materials

In Zen design, you will often see various natural materials such as bamboo, cotton and undecorated wood. Colours are kept light and minimal, in keeping with the principle of Yugen (Subtlety). Whites, creams, pale natural greens and browns are excellent colours.

Accessories

Due to the principle of Kanso (Simplicity) accessories in a Zen design will kept to a minimum. Each should serve its purpose – but do bear in mind that beauty can in itself be a purpose. Living plants make excellent Zen accessories, exemplifying the principle of Shizen (Naturalness) whilst adding bright splashes of colour to your room.

Here at Real Flame, we offer a wide range of fires, from minimalist hole in the wall fireplaces to traditional wood burning stoves in London – whatever design aesthetic you’re looking for, we can help you find the perfect fire to suit. For more information, you can contact us on 020 7731 5025.