PAST AND FUTURE IMPERFECTIONS
Designers Colin and Justin explore the Japanese ethos of Wabi Sabi, a style dictum that embraces authenticity.
As our perpetual quest for decorative beautification continues apace, we hear life lessons, at every juncture, from an army of (*coughs) “influencers” serving — among 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 about how 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, it's a fascinating ideology.
Spool to the present day, and the ancient teachings are part of a growing trend that features vintage terracotta pots, loose-weave textiles, imperfect paint finishes and worn wood finishes, all in service of establishing a “new” design zeitgeist.
Here's the skinny ...
Set the scene with paint: Nothing creates mood quite like colour, so choose tones that suggest calm and contemplation. For the bedroom we designed, we chose 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 in our bedroom, we hung an artwork triptych from Homesense, each piece sporting irregular handloomed texture to suggest naturally “seasoned” appeal.
Neutral colours: Across a hushed vignette, the bedroom we designed 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 urbanbarn.com, 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 hauermarket.com provides shape, colour and texture, not to mention a hint 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, stressful world. Restrained furniture arrangement and open floor plans create an uncluttered narrative. A light coloured rug brightens the proceedings.
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. The Kanata Reclaimed Wood Bench (Urban Barn), is built from century old elm portals: each piece, imparting unique “one off ” variation.
Having always admired design that sensitively harvests aspects from previous eras, we take joy watching Wabi Sabi nudge its way across today's style landscape. It's a decorating oeuvre that simply works, with each storytelling layer, and each timeworn, imperfect, lesson served.