Add Zen decor elements to your .
Zen design has shaped and formed almost every part of Japanese culture. What people think of in the West as "commonly Japanese", has its roots in the thinking and aesthetics of Zen. The simple, clean lines of Zen decor have continued to appeal with the passage of time. Zen decor adds a sense of peace and calm to a room. Add Zen decor ideas into your living room to create the feeling of serenity.
Futon
Add a futon to your living room. Futons in Japan are placed on tatami mats, which are then enclosed by folding screens. Portable rice paper lights are added around the futon. Futon mattresses in the West are typically placed on a low futon wooden frame, which doubles as a daytime sofa.
Kaidan tansu
Include a kaidan tansu, or stepped storage chest. These chests, which resemble stairs, originated in pre-industrial, rural Japan. Originally designed to use as stairs to the next floor, they are now used for storage and display. Display stacking boxes, photographs and ceramic accessories on the steps. Use the built-in drawers to store smaller items.
Natural Elements
In the Zen tradition, fire, wood, earth, metal and water are thought to be key components of the physical world. Add accessories using these elements to create a Zen-like atmosphere in your living room. Add textural rugs made from rice, straw or reeds. Natural wood floors are important in Zen design. Firewood may be stacked to focus on the wood grain in each piece for a focal point in a fireplace. Add water elements such as fountains made from metal. Living plants are symbols of regrowth and regeneration in a Zen home. A simple vase that contains lilies helps soften a minimalistic interior.
Sliding doors
Sliding doors or doors that partition off rooms are an important feature of Zen design. Add doors that break up interior space, such as the living room, or doors that separate two rooms. Doors may be shaded with rice paper, clear or painted, but they should always be functional enough to create a flexible space.
Tags: living room, your living, your living room, doors that, made from, rice paper, Sliding doors