The New Zen-sational Design Trend Sweeping the Nation
Familiar with the Zen design trend? If not, you should be! It is rising in popularity, especially in urban areas and loft living environments. It is a simplistic, yet tasteful approach to decorating. Zen focuses mainly on simplicity, and being mindful of the calmness and peace of life. To get you up to date with the best Zen home trends available, here is a list of the main ones to follow:
1.) Au Naturale
Zen living is all about sticking to the basics. This means nothing too bold (sorry color enthusiasts). In order to achieve maximum simplicity with style, use Earth tones and natural furnishings. Try to leave all of the plush rugs and intricately designed chairs behind and head for nice wooden mats in shades of gray or tan. All furniture should be simple and of natural, high-quality materials such as wood or wicker with light-colored upholstery. The Carpet Guys can install hardwood in your home, and the fabrics you use should be light and natural; nothing too lavish. Again, the name of the game is simplicity.
2.) Lighting
When choosing the lighting for a Zen-styled room, try to accentuate the natural light as much as possible. Place beds near natural light sources, but away from passageways.
Trying to get the most out of your natural light not only looks fabulous, but it saves you a bit of cash too! When the sun goes down, use soft lighting (such as soft yellow lights and candles) rather than going for a basic bedside lamp or fluorescent bulb. Go for reading lamps and hanging lights for a more subtle and relaxing source of light. If you are feeling really dedicated, swap out the standard-sized candles for a sand garden with tea lights. It not only adds flair to the room, but also a sense of peace and tranquility.
3.) Everything is Greener on the Zen Side
Plants, plants, and more plants. To accent your neutrals, incorporate an abundance of greenery into your newly decorated zen room. Simply add a few green plants to a room to emphasize the calmness of the environment in its natural state. Plants also purify the air and make for nice decorations. Shop for hanging plants, small trees or bonsais. Avoid high-maintenance plants, especially those with flowers.
4.) Clutter Free
The most important element of a zen space is that it appears free, simple, and serene. So get out those storage boxes and bags you have been waiting to use for months and eliminate all clutter and unnecessary objects from the space. This not only has to do with basic things and junk and or knick knacks we keep around, but with the wall space. Zen rooms are all about tasteful minimalism. Ergo, take down those photos from your freshman year of college and your best friend’s wedding and let the walls breathe. Try not to hang anything unless you absolutely cannot part with it. Once you have completed this oh-so-important step, you are officially a Zen master!
Explore the many benefits of Zen design and see what it has to offer you and your home. Find peace and tranquility not only in your home, but in the rest of your day with Zen living.
