Have you ever heard of “wabi sabi” style? Chances are, if you haven’t, you’re not alone. This Japanese aesthetic is gaining traction in Toronto and beyond as a popular interior decor style, but it can be hard to define - after all, wabi sabi isn't about what it is, but rather what it isn't.

If you're looking for a fresh and unique approach to interior design and home decor, then you might want to check out this Japanese aesthetic concept. Here's a guide to understanding this minimalist trend so you can make your home look its best.

What is Wabi Sabi?

Wabi-sabi is a term that encompasses a way of living that is focused on embracing imperfection, transience, and simplicity. It's a style that celebrates the beauty of natural materials, textures, and the passing of time. Essentially, it's about finding beauty in the imperfect and appreciating the rawness and uniqueness of things.It's characterized by minimalism; even if a room has more than one piece of furniture or decoration, they're arranged in such a way that nothing feels cluttered or overwhelming. This type of decor also emphasizes natural materials like wood, stone, and clay—which makes it perfect for anyone who wants to bring nature indoors. As for colors, wabi sabi tends to focus on earthy tones like beige, browns, greens and blues. These colors provide a comforting atmosphere that's perfect for relaxing or entertaining guests.

Why Choose Wabi Sabi?

Choosing wabi sabi as your home decor style can bring several benefits. Well, for starters, it means that you don't have to have the perfect Pinterest-worthy home. Wabi-sabi embraces the imperfections and quirks of your space, allowing it to have a unique character and charm all its own.

The second most obvious benefit is the sense of balance it brings to our fast-paced lives. In a world where everything moves so quickly, it's easy to become overwhelmed and stressed out. As we navigate our way through the bustling streets of metropolitan cities like Toronto, it's easy to get caught up in the chaos and constant noise of our surroundings. We find ourselves constantly on the go, rushing from one place to the next, and it can feel like there's no end in sight. But when we step into our home, we're reminded of what's truly important - the moments we spend with the people we love, the simple pleasures of life, and the beauty of the world around us. Because there are no bright colors or busy patterns, it can help create a tranquil atmosphere where you can relax after a long day- a little slice of serenity in the midst of the chaos.

Additionally, wabi sabi encourages creativity - by leaving some empty space in each room and using simple decorations like plants and artwork to fill it up, your home will feel unique and inviting without feeling overwhelming or cluttered. By creating a space that's free of clutter and chaos, we allow ourselves the opportunity to unwind and decompress after a long day. We can surround ourselves with soft, soothing colors and gentle, natural textures that calm our minds and soothe our souls. We can fill our homes with the things that bring us joy, whether it's a favorite piece of art or a cozy reading nook, and revel in the simple pleasures of life.

Finally, wabi sabi can help save money - because its emphasis on imperfection means that pieces don’t need to be brand new or expensive in order to look good!  

How to incorporate into your home

One way to incorporate wabi-sabi into your home is by using natural materials such as wood, stone, and clay. These materials have a rawness and texture that is inherently imperfect and full of character. You can add a wooden coffee table with a few scratches and nicks, or a stone vase with an uneven surface that shows its natural origins.

Another way to bring wabi-sabi into your decor is by incorporating handmade or vintage items. These items have a unique story and history, and the wear and tear they show can add to their charm. You can use vintage wooden frames for your artwork, or a handmade ceramic bowl as a centerpiece on your dining table.

Wabi-sabi also encourages a minimalist approach to decor. Rather than filling your space with clutter and unnecessary items, it's about having only what you need and what brings you joy. This doesn't mean you can't have any decorations, but rather that the ones you choose to display should have a purpose or a story.

Wabi sabi may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about home decor styles but I hope I've convinced you to give it a try! Its emphasis on simplicity and imperfection makes it perfect for those who want their homes to feel cozy yet stylish - plus its budget-friendly nature is just icing on the cake! So if you're looking for something different from the usual modern/minimalist/industrial trends out there right now, why not check out wabi sabi instead? You won't regret it!

You can check out our extensive collections of minimalist mid-century modern furniture at Mim, or get in touch with us.

By Anh Ly
Designer of Mim Concept