Simplicity with Zen Decor

Many of us are moving in the direction of a more holistic approach to living and one of the most important areas which affect our overall health is our home space. As a result, room designs that incorporate Zen decorating concepts and decor styles have become increasingly popular.

The key to Zen decor is simplicity. The goal is to create a harmonious interior that simply flows, without any obsticals, clutter, or uneccesary items in the way which allows you to ‘be’ in the present moment.  Although Zen decorating is minimalistic, the items that are in the home should each have a specific use, visible, and highly functional despite their simplicity.

Working within the Zen means beginning to use more natural materials when decorating your home. The color tones in the home should be earthy, and the furniture you have around the house should have simple, clean lines and be in keeping with the color scheme. You can still add accessories when creating a zen room, but think more in terms of woven area rugs, different plants and simple floral arrangements, rice lamps, and even the use of rocks and silk pillows on the sofa.

Natural lighting is also very important, since zen decor encourages a meditative state throughout the home and big windows that let in light are very good for creating a more relaxing feel. If you are ready to take your home to the next level, then also consider creating a zen garden. The idea is to work with your home in such a way that you find a balance between form and space wherever you look or go.

Bedroom Theme

Choosing a theme is so much fun and is something you can do in all your rooms. A theme can be absolutely anything you like, think is beautiful, or that reflects your hobbies and interests. It can be anything from city sleek, trendy, Middle Eastern, retro, Hollywood-glam, Zen industrial and even butterflies. When it comes to themes, there are absolutely endless room decorating ideas out there!

When decorating according to a theme, every inch of your bedroom must be considered, including the floor, walls and ceiling. You also need to identify the colors, patterns, types of fabrics, furniture, accessories and lighting that will give you the particular look you are going for. You will need to do a bit of brainstorming and researching but it is worth it if you want your bedroom theme to turn out just right.

The following is an example that you can follow when coming up with your own bedroom theme!

Example: Zen Decorating Theme

• Colors: Stick to neutral, organic shades like tan, green, blue and white. Use these colors in walls, fabrics, accessories, furniture etc.
• Furniture: Japanese-style low platform bed, simple nightstand out of Asian hardwood, dresser with Chinese handles, perhaps out of wood from government controlled forests or something “zen” like that
• Ceiling: White ceiling, make sure not to have a bright light coming from the ceiling onto the bed
• Floor: Tatami Bamboo mat or woven rug,
• Walls: Hang watercolor and calligraphy paintings
• Bedding: Simple, high quality, tightly woven, tan or white
• Lighting: Paper lanterns, bamboo lamps paper blinds over the windows
• Accessories: Candles, stones, plants and maybe a small fountain. Accessories should be kept minimal, uncluttered and related to nature.

Just keep to these basic instructions and your bedroom will have a beautiful theme in no time.