Wabi Sabi

Past Perfect...

The spirit of Japan is not always easy for westerners to understand but staying in a traditional Riokan helps clarify the meaning of Wabi Sabi


Wabi suggests freshness-simplicity-quietness

as in fresh crisp bedding rolled out on tatami mats each evening

Sabi suggests a burnished beauty 

like the weathering of wood

the tarnish on brass-

the creeping of moss on stone

There is nothing Wabi Sabi about a Ferrari

Precise Perfection

"One picture is worth a thousand words"  


 Images that define the beauty and serenity of WABI SABI

an old grape stake fence

worn leather of well used books

a chair seat with all the scars of age

down cushions with permanent impressions 

of hours well spent

 ...freyed and faded silk

...peeling paint on ancient candlesticks

A blossom in decline speaks of fleeting beauty

Stunning interiors reflecting Wabi Sabi

INTERIOR-STEPHEN SILLS ASSOCIATES

INTERIOR DESIGN-STEPHEN SILLS ASSOCIATES

INTERIOR DESIGN -DARRYL CARTER

INTERIOR DESIGN-DARRYL CARTER

Fresh seemingly simple interiors that are never vulgur or overdecorated

So leave the Ferrari in the garage (if you can afford one)

Keep upholstery  simple, neutral,  and timeless 

ESPECIALLY if you are on a budget...

shop antique malls and flea markets for pieces PAST PERFECT.

Recognize the beauty of places ravaged by time 

siding battered by the elements

a tarnished faucet

a tangle of rusted fencing

...tendrils weaving through rafters

I love that Wabi Sabi spirit of Japan- an appreciation for the beauty of imperfection.

I always attempt to imbue my own design projects with that same spirit believing

there is much to be said for perfect imperfection ...

           But all things in good measure

                                                                                now I am off to have my car washed.

Cheers,

Rela