Rooted in Buddhism and ancient Japanese tea ceremonies, Wabi-Sabi is a philosophy that finds beauty in imperfection and impermanence. In a world dominated by trends and materialism, it encourages us to slow down, appreciate the present moment, and enjoy an aesthetic that honours nature.
It is based on the four principles of:
- Imperfection
- Transience
- Natural processes
- Simplicity
… with this in mind, the Wabi-Sabi philosophy acts as a great conceptual starting point for interior spaces – especially those dedicated to wellness or creating a calm atmosphere.
The lookbook below begins to address how the Wabi-Sabi principles could be used to create zen spaces, whilst incorporating modern tastes into the mix.
The use of natural materials and artisanal finishes celebrate the ‘perfectly imperfect’ charm of the handmade. Japanese pottery, such as Raku ware, embodies Wabi-Sabi principles with its irregular shapes and unglazed surfaces, whilst materiality palettes can emphasise the notion of natural imperfections in an aesthetic way.
Materials with translucency features such as linen, or with reflective surfaces such as glass, are great ways to incorporate the element of transience, as they constantly change depending on the light quality and activities happening in the space. On the other hand, choices which change and patina over time (such as copper or timber) represent transience in a completely contrasting way. The poetic possibility of a Wabi-Sabi interior is endless…
