Our homes are our sanctuary to feel calm, relaxed, and safe, which is important in a time where many of us face different stresses during our everyday lives.
That’s why investing in our homes to ensure we can create an area that is ‘zen’ and a space of serenity is a vital skill when it comes to interior design.
In light of World Meditation Day, on May 21st, a leading interior expert has explained the importance of our domestic surroundings and how they can make a difference to our mental wellbeing, too.
Kate Conrad, senior interior designer at luxury homeware retailer Madison & Mayfair, says by following five simple tips anyone can create a ‘zen’ home that prioritises relaxing and calming qualities.
Opt for greens and blue
“As a base, a neutral colour palette can set the tone of your home,” says Kate. “This can instantly create a more soothing ambience.
“But then, layer with greens and blues, which have calming effects according to colour theory. Providing a hint of nature with a soothing result, gentle blues and soft greens can allow your home to feel instantly elevated and like a breath of fresh air.”
Use soft textures
“In order to soften your decor to achieve that ‘zen’ feeling, ensuring that the materials in your home are subtle and muted can make a large difference,” says Kate.
“Natural materials, such as clay pottery, wooden panelling or a sisal rug, would provide interesting yet subtle changes in texture with a more organic feel.”
Be smart with storage
“A messy, cluttered space is very hard to be perceived as relaxing, which is why having a declutter is important if you want to feel more zen in your home.
“Utilise storage effectively and you can keep a tidy home with lots of calm, open space. Ottomans and shelving units are practical ways to make use of the space you have available.
“A key tip is making sure your entryway is free from clutter, creating a welcoming first impression that sets the tone for the rest of your home.”
Create a tech-free zone
“Considering so many of us now use screens all day as part of our job, and then resort to our phones as a form of relaxation, creating a zone in your home purely dedicated to organic relaxation techniques could make a huge difference.
“With a comfortable seat, no television or computer, and room for practicing other hobbies, such as reading, puzzles, or playing an instrument, a well decorated space with plants and artwork could become your new serenity zone.
“You could even create a mediation or yoga area, with room for a mat set up with relaxing incense, so that you feel more inclined to take a small portion of your day and dedicate it to deep breathing and calming activities.”
Use soft lighting
“It is very important to perfect the lighting in your home when trying to achieve a zen space to relax in,” adds Kate. “With warm toned lamps scattered around the room, as well as soft candlelight, you can nurture an inviting atmosphere effortlessly.
“Find lamps with neutral or textured bases to add the natural touches to your decor, and also avoid blocking any natural light sources with furniture, ensuring the windows can breathe as much light into the room as possible.”
