Zen Decorating: Simple and Inexpensive

Zen Decorating places an emphasis on the selection and arrangement of furnishings in order to create an indoor environment that is balanced and serene. As a result, the style supports livings areas that are uncluttered and in harmony with the elements and colors of nature. “Zen” means meditation in Japanese, so a Zen decor must reflect this type of feeling as well. Consequently, you can use the Zen decorating style in your apartment home without a great outlay of cash. Since the idea behind Zen decorating is to keep things simple, you can also stay within your budget too.

Strive for a Totally Uncluttered Look

To enforce the idea of “Zen,” strive to keep your living quarters free of clutter. Therefore, make sure you get rid of any items or furnishings in your apartment that are simply taking up space. Donate items like old books or magazines that aren’t being read but are merely residing on tables or shelves. Discard furniture pieces that are never used. The “Zen” environment should be completely streamlined and pleasing to the eye. As a result, you can keep your costs low as you’ll only buy and use what you really need.

Use Neutral Earth Tones

Colors also play an important role in decorating the Zen way. Neutral earth tone colors keep things simple and costs low. Popular colors include soft browns, beiges, pale lilac, deep green and sky blue. Do not use trendy colors. Instead, select hues and tints that meld with the colors of nature and lend serenity and balance to your living space.

Use the Elements of Nature in Your Furnishings and Accessories

Accessorize or furnish your apartment with items that use the elements of nature, such as water, fire, wood and metal. For example, choose lamps and furniture made of wood or metal. If you don’t have a fireplace, use candles in your decor. Include a small fountain or hang a print of a waterfall. Keep your furnishings and accessories in tune with nature. When you do accessorize, only use a one or two accent pieces. Choose, perhaps, a metal sculpture or a clock made of wood or metal.

Maintain Low, Clean Lines

To maintain the harmony in your decor, choose furniture with low, clean lines. Do not pick out any grand or elaborate pieces of furniture. The Zen style does not advocate using furniture that is massive or overpowering. Colors and furniture should make one feel close to the peaceful feeling that nature conveys. Therefore, you’re permitted to choose furnishings that aren’t overly expansive or expensive in order to create a Zen effect.

Maintain Lighting that Is Natural and Gentle

The Zen mood is also enhanced with the type of lighting that you select. You can keep costs low in this area as well as Zen decorating uses natural lighting or lights that are recessed to open up a space and make it feel more inviting. Simple, low-cost curtains, such as cotton sheers, allow the sun’s natural light to filter into windows to create a more Zen-like atmosphere.

Zen decorating is a style that allows you to make the most of what you have and keep everything in balance.