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Modern Hall design by San Francisco Architect Zack|de Vito Architecture + Construction
Image via Houzz
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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!
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!
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| 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”
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| 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!
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| 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!
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| 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
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| 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
