Wabi Sabi Interior Design Is Our New Favorite Take on Minimalism

Roughly defined as the philosophy of embracing natural beauty and the imperfections of life, wabi sabi is more of a lifestyle approach than design aesthetic. Kintsugi art, the Japanese practice of repairing cracked or broken pottery with gold, is one expression of wabi sabi that illustrates its reverence for flaws; Zen rock gardens are another. While wabi sabi concepts are mostly applied to daily to internal discoveries and things you observe in nature, you can also look to the concept for inspiration in your arts and design. It’s not a trend or design style; it’s a way of thinking that’s deeply rooted in Japanese culture. That said, the deep appreciation designers have for the practice of wabi sabi reflected in interiors cannot go unnoticed.

When considering wabi sabi interior design, think patina, weathered wood, organic materials, hand-thrown ceramics, and overall simplicity. Wabi sabi asks us to take a second look at the imperfections we commonly rush to fix in our lives and our interiors. Maybe the chips and nicks on your coffee table aren’t so bad after all. It’s added character, not a flaw. Keep reading to learn more about wabi sabi interior design and why designers love applying the perfectly imperfect practice in homes.