Wabi-sabi: The Perfection in Imperfection
Wabi-sabi is an ancient Japanese philosophy that incorporates the view or thoughts of finding beauty in every aspect of the imperfection of nature. When breaking down the words separately, Wabi describes a positive outlook on living alone in nature. Living simplistic, quiet, and rustic. With Sabi, beginning to find the beauty in old age, seeing the importance of serenity that can come with time and scars representing signs of experience. Wabi-sabi is not about striving for perfection in every last detail as many of us are guilty of, whether, in design, work, or day to day living, it is more about taking that step back and accepting that nothing is and never will be perfect, so rather than stress and worry over the imperfections we might as well enjoy life the way it is.
When broken down like this, it is clear to see why so many people have adopted this into their design philosophy and applied it to interiors. This has become a signature style of Axel Vervoordt, a Belgian designer who popularized Wabi-sabi through his stunning work within hotels, homes, and more recently working with people such as Kanye West. Axel Vervoordt says that a properly executed Wabi-sabi interior design should look poor but be expensive. Creating such an effortless aesthetic takes time, care, and meticulous attention to detail. A book that I would highly recommend if you haven’t already read it is ‘Wabi Inspirations’ by Axel Vervoort.
Axel Vervoort’s home in Belgium
So, how do you achieve this within your own home? The easiest method is to turn to nature. Look at the colour palette, the blend of browns, greys, greiges, greens, whites, and creams. Choose a muted palette, the key to Wabi-sabi interiors is less is more.
Natural, natural, natural. Stick to natural materials, whether that’s the walls, furniture, or decor. Natural materials present a sense of asymmetry, intimacy, and minimalism that you can’t quite get from the new and shiny, straight-of-the-shelf products. From woods to concrete to washed linen. Not only will these raw and natural materials create a warm and cozy atmosphere in your home, but they will also age beautifully over time and make your house look ‘lived in’. Next time you are in need of some new furniture try an antique’s fair, car boot sale, or local charity shop and celebrate the imperfections.
Now this one might sound odd, however, Wabi-sabi is about integrating the philosophy into your lifestyle, and how you can do this is by making your bed, but how you want. Forget the folded throws and perfectly placed pillows, Wabi-sabi encourages embracing an imperfectly made bed. To take the focus away from creating a spotless and perfect bedroom. Your bedroom should be your place of comfort and relaxation, not look like a hotel.
Don’t forget to stimulate your senses. Sounds, smells, and touches are all part of our daily routine but do you actually cater to them. Simple tasks such as lighting a candle or burning incense. Using textural textiles such as wool and sheepskin. Use calming music throughout your home or open the window and let the sound of nature into your space.
Finally, make it personal. If you want to achieve the Wabi-Sabi aesthetic stay away from the glossy and shiny. Whether an art piece by your child or a hand-spun vase, intentionally living among mindfully selected objects inspires you to celebrate authenticity and find the beauty in everyday objects. This is the key to Wabi-sabi design.