Wabi-sabi style: What is it and how to apply it at home?

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Wabi-sabi is defined as the beauty found in imperfection, allowing for a more realistic and relaxed aesthetic. But it also comes with a lot of philosophical and cultural baggage behind it.

What is wabi sabi or wabi-sabi style?

The wabi-sabi style is the simplification of natural aesthetics. It is based on designs that embrace natural materials, with their most unique textures, aromas and characteristics. The literal translation of the words wabi-sabi in Japanese refers to solitude in nature and a sense of fragility at the same time, representing a feeling of longing that goes along with its philosophical thinking of rejection of artificial perfection, and acceptance of the mundane and natural pleasures of imperfect things.

Although the wabi-sabi style relies heavily on austerity, it is not essentially minimalist, it does not seek a sense of emptiness, but simply eliminates the noise of things that are not necessary. In this way, wabi-sabi looks for the essential pieces in everyday life, and maintains them thanks to the quality and durability of natural materials.

Another point of interest of the thought that accompanies wabi-sabi is to extend the useful life of objects, and not to fear cracks and scars. The imperfections caused by time are no less a demonstration of the existence of the objects and of the experiences lived. This is why repairing and reusing things is encouraged.

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How to apply the wabi-sabi style at home?

At Dareels we are proud to identify ourselves with this style and the way of life that goes with it, that's why we propose the essential points to start with wabi-sabi

  • Eliminate visual noise. This will focus the vision to the points of each room that are of most interest. Not only in the wabi-sabi style, any other style that is based on harmony, elegance or quality, will go through this step.
  • Use of natural materials. Another of the main key points is to pay special attention to the materials that occupy the decoration of our home, always prioritizing the natural ones, and within these, the sustainable and recycled ones.
  • Remembering the value of craftsmanship. Wabisabi accepts and embraces the beauty that exists in the imperfection of handmade things. All Dareels pieces are handcrafted.
  • Natural textiles. Textiles are not an exception in the choice of materials. The ones that fit best are those loaded with texture, and beauty is found even in the wrinkles of them.
  • Use a neutral color palette. Being a naturalistic vision and simplified to the essentials, the most flashy and artificial colors do not fit, and those that are easily found in nature will be perfect.
  • Liberated walls. Simplicity also applies to vertical decoration. The walls, essentially white or beige, will not be loaded with decorations, except for some punctual and really significant detail.
  • Plants are welcome. Decorating with plants is a must in this style. What better way is there to include nature in a space, than giving it life?
  • Plant fibers. Hemp, rattan and seagrass are great allies, combining the point of texture, natural materials and the value of craftsmanship all in one.
  • Aromatherapy. The ultimate feeling sought by this style is that of freedom and peace of mind. This is most easily achieved in an environment that brings a natural, warm and relaxing aroma. Shining at its best with scented candles, and the big star: incense.