Design spaces in under 200 sq. feet: Your own zen sanctuary

Mar 20 2018, 1:08 am

The hustle and bustle of everyday life can be exhausting and sometimes seem like a never-ending cycle. While juggling work, sleep, social time, and life on a daily basis, it is easy to get caught up in it all and rarely allow for some much needed alone time. Something as simple as a space to relax, read a book, meditate, or just enjoy some peace of mind can be vital to your daily happiness and overall self-care.

Here are a few ways to quickly transform a space into your own personal zen sanctuary, without breaking the bank or taking up precious (and expensive) space.

Create your own sense of place.

Allowing your mind to be at ease and in a peaceful state starts with your surroundings. Gather a few meaningful pieces, such as photos or décor and decide how they can add to the space in the most beneficial way possible. This may begin with a specific arrangement of items on a display shelf, or a combination of photographs and art on the wall. Allow them to work harmoniously with each other and aid in making the space totally your own.

Triple Moon Shelf / Stone and Violet

Triple Moon Shelf / Stone and Violet

Simple and clean lines can go a long way.

While embracing bold and vibrant colours or patterns is always fun, when creating a space strictly for calming emotions it is best to try and stick with natural colours and clean lines. Natural fabrics are also key to allowing for a comfortable and mindful space. Connecting with nature and the natural environment around us is a given when creating zen spaces.

Miawa is a Vancouver company and a great example a manufacturer creating products that are made with organic materials, natural dyes, and bring a soft, nature inspired feeling to any space.

Block Print Fabric / Miawa

Block Print Fabric / Miawa

Candles and Saje diffusers are never a bad idea.

Something as simple as lighting a candle can do wonders when creating a feeling of calmness and tranquility. Candles from Vancouver Candle Co. are a go-to, as their scents are comforting and diverse allowing for users to carefully choose their perfect scent. All oils used are natural and the candles are 100% soy, suitable for your natural, Zen space.

If you are not a fan of candles, or wanting to embrace the ever-growing trend, essential oil diffusers are another option. A company growing popular for their tasteful and attractive diffusers is Saje. Once you’ve picked out the style that is right for you and your space, you have a choice of various oils and sets. Time to find your signature diffuser scent!

Ultrasonic Diffuser / Saje

Ultrasonic Diffuser / Saje

Lighting has more impact than you may realize.

Depending on your mood or state of mind, warm versus cool light can make a huge difference. It is also important to consider a focal or task light, this being a reading light above a comfy chair, or a table lamp illuminating a focal or display area.

Warm light is a good way to make your space feel comfortable and lived-in, whereas cool light tends to be create more of an awakening feeling. Below is the Umbrellamp, made of traditional Chinese oil paper and is the perfect warm-light addition to your Zen space.

Umbrellamp / Kickstarter

Umbrellamp / Kickstarter

Embrace the cozy and comfortable.

Something as simple as incorporating several toss cushions or the addition of a throw blanket can make all the difference. Layering of natural and simple tones can really aid in creating your desired look and feel, not to mention make for an even cozier space to unwind.

Layering natural textures and dimension to a space is easy with the use of these throw blankets from West Elm. Their soothing tones and texture can add the comfort your space may desperately require.

Ribbed Blankets / West Elm

Ribbed Blankets / West Elm

See also
Form CollectiveForm Collective

+ Architecture & Design
+ Urbanized
ADVERTISEMENT