5 Ways to Bring Wabi-Sabi Home
Happy Monday! I’m sure we’re all beginning to get a bit weary of life in quarantine, but I’m grateful for the time it’s given to reflect on all that I am grateful for and focus on what matters most. I’m learning to see the beauty in the imperfect, and cherishing the comfort and safety of my home in a time when the outside world is feeling uncertain and even a bit scary. In my time at home I’ve had an opportunity to dive deep into the concept of wabi-sabi, and think about how I can bring this Japanese concept into my own life and home, especially in this trying time.
Wabi-Sabi is a core concept of Japanese culture, and one I’m sure many of you have heard of. The idea of wabi-sabi has its roots in Buddhism, as it embodies many Zen philosophies and ideals. Leonard Koren, author of “Wabi-Sabi..for Artists, Designers, Poets and Philosophers,” describes wabi-sabi as a feeling, one that embodies authenticity above all. It’s about seeing the beauty in the imperfect, and a lived-in home full of purpose and thoughtful intent.
I’ve really enjoyed applying the concept of wabi-sabi to my own home and below I’m sharing 5 ways for you to do the same!
1. Clear Out Clutter
Koren calls for those of us seeking to bring the wabi-sabi ideals into their lives to “keep things clean and unencumbered, but don’t sterilize.” In my time spent at home, I’ve used this opportunity to re-asses all of the material things around me, and clear out what is doing little more than taking up space. Objects around us should be thoughtful and intentional. But we shouldn’t confuse this concept with minimalism, because a wabi-sabi home may be filled with objects. The key difference is that they’re a collection of pieces, all meaningful and considered.
2. Embrace the imperfect and choose unique, handmade pieces
Wabi-Sabi is all about seeing the beauty in the imperfect. Valuing the unique and useful over the flawless and materialistic. Give yourself permission to love the sun-faded linen or velvet of your favorite armchair or the chipped coffee mug you reach for every day.
When choosing new items to add to your home, choose to support local artisans and small business by buying handmade ones—ceramics from Eric Bonnin and wooden boards from Ed Wohl are some of our favorites at AMPERS&. We love seeing the natural imperfections in a piece; they remind us of the maker and the care and time that went into creating.
3. Switch out sheets, blankets, pillows, and table linens for those made with natural materials
A core piece of wabi-sabi comes in the observation of nature and the movement of the seasons. I always have a throw blanket or two in the living room as well as one in the bedroom, and I’ve just switched over my sheets from winter flannel to airy cotton. We’re just crossing over into Spring and there’s no better time to freshen your bed linens and soft furnishings around the house.
4. Bring the outside in
The first Spring blooms are just beginning to peak out of the gardens at my house, and every day when I walk around the neighborhood I see the flowering trees closer and closer to blooming. Last week Polly grouped a bunch of beautiful pink tulips in her kitchen, and I followed her lead and plucked a few jonquils from the garden out back. Plus, there is nothing better than a little color and life to lift spirits.
5. Repurpose or repaint something!
As I’ve been de-cluttering I’ve been keeping my eyes peeled for a project! With this extra time at home it’s the perfect time to give a forgotten side table or chair a fresh coat of Farrow & Ball. By the way, if you’re in need of some paint, we are still taking orders at AMPERS&. We’ll ship it directly to you at no charge if we don’t have it in stock!
Hope everyone is staying happy and healthy! Check back soon for more!