Zen is in!

Modern Hall design by San Francisco Architect Zack|de Vito Architecture + Construction 

Image via Houzz

Welcome! From the abundance of Indian décor to the minimalism of Zen, we take a detour today.  I have the pleasure of hosting an Aalayam tour right here and what a gorgeous home we have picked too….

Zen décor is a favorite Asian influence with Western decorators today. So, what is the Zen factor really?

A rock garden? A Buddha figurine? A water feature, perhaps? Personally, I think what sets Zen décor apart is the sense of serenity and peaceful energy that it brings to a living space.  Interestingly, the word Zen is an indirect derivative of the Sanskrit word dhyana which reads - a “meditative state.” And therefore, the “Zen” influence implies using décor elements that pull in tranquility and a quiet semblance into the home. Just what we need after a chaotic day!

 

A Zen corner from Roopa's yard - Love the terracotta tiles!

Roopa and Abhi (our home owners today) believe that their home is  “An amalgamation of their love for contemporary furnishings, mid century modern architecture and minimalistic zen influences "

Roopa and Abhi's family room -The floor to ceiling window wall is a great way to bring the outdoors in! 

The end result? “A home that effortlessly connects the people living within and the nature  surrounding it”

A gorgeous vignette from Roopa's yard.

 Situated in suburban Naperville, IL this home is anything but your average cookie cutter home. This is a labor of love! Capitalizing on her professional training in engineering and personal passion for decorating and propelled by Abhi’s  undying support , she embarked on a rather courageous journey of remodeling. Of tearing down her entire home to recreate an abode that met their aesthetic vision– no easy feat by any means!

 

She says – “Simplicity was my destination and I used a combination of Feng-shui, Vaastu and the simple laws of nature to get there! “ And boy, did she reach there in style!

The formals.  The richness of the hardwood floors adds to the drama!

The bold art work, the clean lines on the furniture, the modern accessories and the eye-catching colors in this home remind us yet again that it’s all in the details!  And if your style is contemporary chic with a dash of balance and harmony – then, this is your inspiration! 

Balancing function and style the Zen way!  Roopa and Abhi's kitchen.

 Indeed,  great vision, the right inspiration and good ole' hard work goes a long way!

 

Roopa  and Abhi say “ We did not want our home design journey to end with our home “and “We love the idea of enabling other home owners translate their dreams of a simple, clean, zen –inspired home into a reality” This sentiment led to the launch of 1816ZenDen.com – their interior design/remodel venture. Here you can find before and after chapters of their remodeling experience, tap into their expertise and consult them on your projects . You can also find them at http://facebook.com/1816Zenden

Even Ganesha has his own Zen corner!

 Thank you Roopa and Abhi for sharing your lovely home with the readers of Aalayam!

Do you live in a beautiful home - a home that reflects the pride of your ownership? Why not inspire others? Please write to us at aalayaminspiration @gmail.com and we'll host a home tour!

Cheers!

Deepa