At the Bathroom
Source: UNO Interior
In this wabi sabi bathroom, the beauty lies in the imperfect harmony of raw materials and simple elegance. The cement screed wall, with its subtle texture and muted tones, forms the backdrop for tranquility. The olive-green cement screed floor exudes an earthy charm, grounding the space.
As you enter, the black aluminium acrylic panels gracefully slide open, revealing the serene bathroom within. These panels, with their sleek lines, contrast beautifully with the rustic cement surfaces. A touch of nature is woven into the design, with a muted green sewage pipe elegantly cradling a bird's nest fern plant. This unexpected juxtaposition of industrial and organic elements adds depth to the space. Opposite the fern, a round corner mirror with a black outline captures a reflection of the shower area, creating a sense of spaciousness and intrigue.
The mahogany vanity cabinet stands as a testament to simplicity and craftsmanship. Its rich wood tones resonate with the olive-green floor, while the sleek black tabletop adds a touch of modernity. On the countertop, a black under-mount sink awaits, flanked by a minimalist arrangement of facial cleanser and moisturiser, reflecting the principles of wabi sabi: beauty in simplicity, imperfection, and the passage of time.
Those who have a strong connection to nature and find solace in its imperfections are likely to embrace wabi sabi. They appreciate the use of natural materials like wood, stone, and plant life in their living spaces. The wabi sabi bathroom encourages mindfulness and reflection. The presence of natural elements and the celebration of imperfections invite homeowners to slow down, be present in the moment, and appreciate the subtle beauty around them.
To achieve this Wabi Sabi theme, you will need to:
- Natural Materials: Incorporate natural materials like wood, stone, and bamboo. Consider using these materials for your bathroom vanity, flooring, or shelving.
- Raw Finishes: Embrace raw and unrefined finishes. For example, choose a cement screed wall or floors that showcase their natural texture.
- Earthy Colour Palette: Opt for earthy and muted colour palettes. Colours like soft greens, warm browns, and muted greys can create a calming atmosphere.
- Minimalist Design: Keep the design simple and clutter-free. Avoid unnecessary ornamentation and decorations that can detract from the theme.
- Imperfections: Celebrate imperfections in your bathroom fixtures and decor. Allow for signs of wear and tear to add character over time.
- Handcrafted Elements: Incorporate handcrafted or artisanal elements, such as handmade pottery, ceramic tiles, or woven textiles.
- Natural Light: Maximise natural light in your bathroom to create a sense of openness and to highlight the textures and materials.
- Plants and Greenery: Introduce indoor plants and greenery, such as ferns, bonsai, or succulents, to bring nature indoors. Hanging plants, like the bird's nest fern can add a unique touch.
- Vintage and Antique Pieces: Include vintage or antique pieces that have a story to tell. These items can add depth and history to your bathroom.
- Functional Simplicity: Choose bathroom fixtures and accessories with simple, functional designs. Avoid overly ornate or overly modern styles that don't align with the wabi sabi aesthetic.
Avoid
- Excessive Modernity: Avoid overly sleek and modern designs that lack the warmth and character associated with wabi sabi.
- Excessive Clutter: While wabi sabi embraces imperfections, it's essential to strike a balance. Avoid excessive clutter and chaos in your bathroom space.
- Harsh Lighting: Steer clear of harsh, bright lighting. Instead, opt for softer, warm lighting that enhances the cozy and tranquil ambiance.
- Artificial Materials: Minimise the use of synthetic or artificial materials that don't align with the natural and authentic feel of wabi sabi.
- Perfectionism: Avoid the pursuit of perfection in your bathroom design. Wabi sabi encourages you to appreciate the beauty in imperfection and the passage of time.
- Overly Matched Elements: Don't try to match everything perfectly. Mix and match textures, colours, and materials to create a more organic and eclectic look.
- Excessive Technology: Minimise the presence of excessive technology or gadgets in the bathroom, as they can disrupt the theme's simplicity.
- Lack of Patina: Don't be too quick to replace or repair items that show signs of aging or patina. These imperfections contribute to the wabi sabi charm.