Exploring the Japanese ethos of Wabi Sabi
A style dictum that embraces imperfection
By focusing on the uncomplicated, the Wabi Sabi dictum creates a sense of calming decompression, a welcome foil to our fast-paced, oft’ stressful world.
As our perpetual quest for decorative beautification continues apace, we hear life lessons, at every juncture, from an army of (*coughs) influencers serving — amongst many strategies — self-betterment, Feng Shui and Hygge.
Hey, there’s even a Scottish version of Hygge called Coorie (Google it) that offers a roster of cosy counsel to layer the home and balance the soul. But none of the foregoing snags our attention like Wabi Sabi.
Originating from tea ceremonies in 16th century Japan, Wabi Sabi is a world view that emphasizes simplicity, natural materials and — crucially — the beauty of imperfection.
Popularized by tea master Sen no Rikyu (who believed the atmosphere suffused by the tea room, and its furnishings, as important as the potable infusion therein) it’s a fascinating ideology.
Spool to the present day, and the ancient teachings are a growing trend with vintage terracotta pots, loose weave textiles, imperfect paint finishes and worn wood finishes establishing a new design zeitgeist.
During a recent Cityline episode, having assembled a low-key Wabi Sabi-inspired bedroom at the behest of our producer, we discussed the ancient dictum with host Tracy Moore. Here’s the skinny ...
■ Set the scene with paint. Nothing creates mood quite like colour, so choose tones that suggest calm and contemplation.
We used matte Benjamin Moore Manchester Tan, and dry brushed pure white atop to create a visually textured, time worn, finish.
■ Embrace imperfection.
In contrast to principles that focus on perfection, Wabi Sabi welcomes the beauty of imperfection, with surface ripples, dings and weathering emblematic of character and story.
To lend a spot of whispered drama (whilst that sounds like an oxymoron, it’s nonetheless satisfying to pull focus, even in low key tableaux) we hung an artwork triptych from Homesense, each piece sporting irregular hand-loomed texture to suggest naturally seasoned appeal.
■ Neutral colours. Across a hushed vignette, our set
nd highlights the gentle detailing of fabrics and texture, without the distraction of bright scale colour. Inspired by Mother Nature’s deft hand, it features palest beige and earthy tones that whisper, rather than shout, to create balanced harmony.
The nightstands and dresser are from Urban Barn, as is the Brandt bed frame. With textured greige upholstery and oversized built-in pillows, it’s a soothing nest designed to tempt optimal sleep, or comfy long lies with endless coffee and a good book.
■ Natural materials. Of-the-earth components are an important part of the subdued eastern ethos, their collective emphasizing the beauty of nature, with wood, stone and clay favoured for their touchy-feely, relaxed appearance.
An assembly of unglazed pots from Hauer Market provides shape, colour and texture, not to mention a whisper of vintage, and indeed previously loved.
■ Simplicity. By focusing on the uncomplicated, the Wabi Sabi dictum creates a sense of calming decompression, a welcome foil to our fast-paced, oft’ stressful world.
Restrained furniture arrangement and open floor plans create an uncluttered narrative.
A light-coloured rug (like the one seen here) will brighten proceedings, its soft ivory weave and grey stitch detail conspiring a gentle vibe.
■ Handcrafted. By layering artisanal objects into a scheme such as this, you won’t only create a sense of warmth, but also one of authenticity.
By example, the Kanata Reclaimed Wood Bench (from Urban Barn, as before) is built from century-old elm portals: each piece, therefore, imparts unique one-off variation.
Having always admired design that sensitively harvests aspects from previous eras, we enjoy watching Wabi Sabi nudging its way across today’s style landscape.
It’s a decorating oeuvre that simply works, as we see it, with each story-telling layer, and each time-worn, imperfect, lesson served.