There is a lot of pressure these days to have the perfect home. Your home should be somewhere that brings you happiness, nostalgia and serenity. The Japanese idea of Wabi-Sabi is the idea of finding beauty within imperfection, which can help guide your decisions for your home.
What is Wabi-Sabi?
Wabi-Sabi is a Japanese philosophy that originated from Buddhism. Tea was served in bowls that were treasured regardless of any imperfections. If these bowls were damaged, they would repair and accentuate the cracks and marks with gold or silver filler or paint. This was to celebrate their age and function, rather than consider the damage as a flaw.
We live in a world that is currently controlled by perfection, it is most of what is presented to us in the media and on social platforms. Wabi-Sabi is an idea that can make us pause for a moment, and reflect on what is real and authentic.
How to Incorporate Wabi-Sabi in the Home
In order to apply the philosophy of Wabi-Sabi to the home you should consider these ideas:
· Choose handmade
· Keep things that bring you joy
· Use organic materials
· Focus on simplicity but not minimalism
· Repurpose items
· Create a calm atmosphere with colour
· Be authentic
Using bespoke furnishings across your home suits the idea. In nature, no two things are ever the same, so having mass produced furniture and accessories around cannot feel genuine. Having handmade products can give your home natural imperfections that only enrich the beauty of them.
At Fluid Stone Studios, all our concrete worktops are designed specifically to suit your home and taste. You will have something that is completely your own.
Keeping items you love even though they are slightly worn is an idea that fits in with Wabi-Sabi. There is no need to get rid of something you cherish because it’s defective. Instead, you can repurpose this object. For example, if a pretty mug is chipped at the rim, you could use this as a plant pot for herbs or pencil holder.
Concrete can be ever changing in appearance when used in the home. It is tough and durable, but collects small marks as time goes on which only adds to their authenticity. After a few years of using them in your home, they will by no means be ‘perfect’ but will still look rustic and beautiful, aging gracefully.
Concrete worktops look great when paired with natural materials such as wood. It’s even possible to have board formed concrete worktops. This adds the texture and aesthetic of wood to concrete, creating a bespoke and attractive piece that is inspired by nature.
When in natural surroundings, the colours play a vital part in making us feel peaceful. Wabi-Sabi homes should use colours that are earthy and calming. This includes blues, greens, greys, and taupes.
Concrete worktops from Fluid Stone Studios support the philosophy of Wabi-Sabi in the home. If you would like to find out more on the process of getting a bespoke concrete worktop in your home, you can read our timeline. Alternatively, you can contact us via phone or email.
