Homes that make the heart beat faster. Discover more
Back

Embrace Zen Design for a Calmer, More Mindful Home with Strata’s Calm Design

Kellie Cade
Kellie Cade
May 28, 2025

Zen design, inspired by the principles and aesthetics of Zen Buddhism, focuses on creating spaces that foster peace, harmony, and mindfulness.

Emphasizing simplicity and tranquillity, it offers a refuge from the busy, fast-paced nature of modern life, helping to alleviate the stresses that come with it. If you're looking to incorporate these calming elements into your own home, here are some key Zen design principles to guide you.

The Power of Colour

When selecting colours for your Zen-inspired space, opt for soothing shades like whites, creams, greys, and earthy tones. These neutral hues create a serene atmosphere. To enhance the connection to nature, you can incorporate subtle accents of blues and greens, which evoke calmness and the peacefulness of the natural world. Steer clear of bright, bold colours like reds and yellows, as these can disrupt the tranquil energy you’re striving for.

Embrace

Embrace

Natural Materials

Choose natural, breathable materials like cotton, linen, and wool to create a soft, inviting environment. Cotton brings comfort, while linen adds a beautiful textural element. Wool rugs and throws can help keep the space cozy and warm, especially during cooler months. Opt for materials in soothing, calm colours and avoid materials with heavy patterns. 

Bringing the Outdoors In

Zen design is rooted in a deep connection to nature. To capture this essence, incorporate materials such as stone and wood into your home. Additionally, bringing greenery into your space with low-maintenance potted plants is a great way to enhance the Zen aesthetic. Not only will plants improve the air quality in your home, but they also help to create a refreshing, natural feel that aligns with Zen principles.

Lighting the Way to Tranquillity

To enhance the peaceful atmosphere in your home, make the most of natural light wherever possible, and try to avoid harsh, overhead lighting. Instead, choose softer lighting options like small lamps and candles, which help create a warm, inviting ambiance. Opt for warmer tones, such as soft yellows and oranges, to bring a sense of serenity and tranquility to your space. Not only will this gentle lighting complement the calming Zen design principles, but soft lighting can also have a significant impact on our wellbeing, helping to reduce stress and anxiety. 

Embrace

Embrace

Simplicity in Furniture

When selecting furniture that aligns with Zen design, focus on pieces with simple, clean lines and natural materials, avoiding overly intricate details. Furniture with a light oak finish is a popular choice, and choosing items from the same collection can help create a sense of visual harmony in your space.

By thoughtfully incorporating these elements, you can create a serene, Zen-inspired space that promotes peace and mindfulness in your daily routine.

But what if you could move into a home where the calming effects of Zen design are already in place? Our RDY2GO collection offers a selection of homes, expertly designed and curated by our team of interior designers. With thousands of pounds worth of upgrades, these homes are move-in ready within weeks—all they need is you! Explore our Calm range, where each home is crafted using Zen principles to create a peaceful, harmonious environment. With every detail thoughtfully chosen to foster balance and tranquillity, you can skip the stress of designing and decorating. Your perfect sanctuary is ready and waiting for you!