Have you ever looked around your home and felt like something was missing, even though everything seems perfectly in place? What if I told you that the key to a truly peaceful, meaningful space might actually lie in the imperfections? That is Wabi Sabi interior design.
Often, when we think about interior design, many of us picture perfectly symmetrical rooms with sleek furniture and polished surfaces. However, Wabi Sabi interior design find beauty in the imperfection, authenticity and things that actually show their age.
Also, make sure to check out my top 15 favorite Wabi Sabi home decor picks here.
I think it’s an absolute beautiful style that embraces the little flaws and imperfections in a way that makes your home feel warm, inviting and deeply personal. Does it sound interesting? In this post, I’ll give you all the information you need to know about Wabi Sabi interior design. I’ll go though why it works, how to incorporate it into your space ad you can make it your own.
Also, don’t forget to save any of these pictures to your Pinterest board! Just click on the Pinterest logo!
What is Wabi Sabi Interior Design?
Wabi Sabi interior design (pronounced wah-bee sah-bee) is a Japanese philosophy and aesthetic that sees the beauty of imperfection. The idea is that nothing is permanent, it’s always changing and the beauty can be found in natural aging of different objects. You can say that it’s more about authenticity and appreciating the passage of time – than about perfection.
The style can be seen in everything from the textures of handmade ceramics (my favorite) to the weathered surfaces of old wooden furniture. These things makes the items come to life and gives the character and history.
Finding Beauty In Imperfection
The goal with Wabi Sabi interior design is to create a space that are simple, serene – but also full of meaning. This is achieved by using natural materials, highlighting imperfections and creating a sense of calm and mindfulness in your home. Sound great, right?
As someone who’s always loved incorporating natural elements into my decor, I think Wabi Sabi is the perfect blend of simplicity and warmth. When I first started decorating my home, I was drawn to the idea of creating a space that felt more lived in – I didn’t want everything new, each object should have a story to tell. That’s when I found Wabi Sabi – a meaningful and intentional style.
Key Elements of Wabi Sabi Interior Design
In order to understand this style a little better I will go through the key elements. Wabi Sabi is all about making the most of the raw, imperfect and timeworn elements of life. So, here’s what you will find at the heart of a Wabi Sabi-inspired home:
1. Natural Materials
One of the first defining features of Wabi Sabi is the use of natural materials, such as wood, stone, clay, linen and wool. All of these materials often show their age, weare and texture in a beautiful way. And, in Wabi Sabi interior design, the goal is, as mentioned, to highlight these natural imperfections instead of hiding them. It gives the space character and history.
For example, I love the look of reclaimed wood furniture. Not only does it add character to a room, but each scratch or knot in the wood tells a story. It’s a subtle reminder that we don’t need everything to be perfect to find beauty. And I believe the best part with this is that it makes it easier for you to make your own DIY – cause it doesn’t have to be perfect.
I actually made my own rustic bench — and I’m so happy with how it turned out! I came across this amazing DIY rustic bench tutorial by @sagephillipshome on TikTok, and it was super easy to follow. You’ll find the video below so you can make your own beautiful rustic bench and add that perfect touch of warmth to your home. It’s the perfect addition to Wabi Sabi interior design.
@sagephillipshome I’ve been getting tons of questions about my narrow bench, so I’m excited to reshare the full tutorial with you all! The best part? You can build it yourself for just $50! Here’s what you’ll need: • 2 x 8 x 8’ knotty pine • Saw • Sandpaper • Chisel • Hammer • Wire brush • Reciprocating saw (optional) • Wood glue • Screws • Matte polyurethane • Stain of choice Steps: Step 1: Cutting the Wood Start by cutting the wood in half with a mitre saw, giving you two 4’ pieces. Set one piece aside for the bench top. Then, cut the second piece into: • 4x 17” x 2.5” pieces (legs) • 2x 4” x 2.5” pieces (bottom support) • 2x 2.5” x 2.5” pieces (top support) Next, cut a 5-degree angle on all four legs and the support pieces using your mitre saw. Step 2: Aging the Wood Using a chisel, hammer, wire brush, and reciprocating saw, I distressed the wood to get the aged look I wanted. Once satisfied, I sanded everything down, starting with 60 grit, then moving to 80 grit, and finishing with 120 grit sandpaper. Step 3: Building the Bench Create two “A” shapes by securing one top support, one bottom support, and two legs with wood glue and screws. Then, attach the “A” frames to the bottom of the bench top with glue and screws. Step 4: Staining For the first coat, I used Simply White, followed by Early American for the second. And here’s a fun trick—I rubbed a handful of dirt into the top for an extra distressed look! Finally, after letting the stain cure for a day, apply a coat of matte polyurethane. You can check out the full process in my “DIY Bench” highlights on my Instagram! Be sure to save this reel for future reference, and feel free to reach out if you have any questions. I’m happy to help! Follow me @sagephillipshome for more DIYs, home decor, and styling inspo! #DIY #homeprojects #diyhomedecor #diybench #diydecor #diyfurniture #diyhome #bedroomdecor #bedroomfurniture #organicmodern #diytutorial ♬ afilmbykirk – ꫂ ၴႅၴ
2. Patina and Age
In Wabi Sabi interior design, patina is a highly valued trait. But, you might wonder what patina means. It simply means the natural changes that occur on a surface over time. It could be the soft wear on a leather chair or the gentle fading of wooden furniture, giving objects a sense of history and character.
So, instead of getting rid of these items and buying something new, Wabi Sabi encourages us to actually appreciate these marks instead of hating them. As I mentioned before, each flaw represents a unique history and there is so much beauty in that.
Thrift Stores
A perfect place to look for these worn-out items are in thrift stores. I recently found an old ceramic vase at a thrift store – it had a couple of cracks in it, which I actually was looking for. Even though it wasn’t perfect – it was perfect with all of its character and it’s now one of my favorite pieces in my home.
However, as the style gains popularity, larger companies – even Amazon – are selling beautiful vases designed to look aged and weathered, mimicking the natural wear of time. You can find a perfect example on Amazon here. It’s absolutely beautiful!
3. Simplicity and Minimalism
Wabi Sabi, actually gets lots of its features from Minimalist interior design. It’s not about creating an empty, sterile space, but rather about embracing the minimalist approach that allows the most important elements to stand out. Let each piece have its own place and voice by focusing on a clutter-free environment with carefully chosen items.
Also, a clutter-free environment will help you relax a lot more in your home. All of this clutter gives you more stress than you can imagine. Try to declutter one room and think about the difference it makes.
Check out this post with 10 decluttering stratergies to help you get started.
4. Asymmetry and Imperfection
Let go of the symmetrical thinking! Now we know that Wabi Sabi is all about imperfection – but that also means asymmetry. This means that things are balanced, not through perfect symmetry, but rather though natural, organic arrangements.
For example, you might find a coffee table with a slightly uneven surface or even a collection of mismatched chairs around a dining table. All of these things brings out the beautiful in symmetry.
5. Earthy, Muted Color Palettes
Just like Japandi interior and minimalist interior design, this style focuses a lot on earthy and muted colors – colors inspired by the nature. It could be soft greys, muted greens, sandy beiges and deep browns. All of these colors create a beautiful calming and serene space – a place o relax after a hard day at work! Something we all need, right?
I’ve actually always gravitated toward neutral colors in my decor – and I think that is because I’ve always loved the calm of nature. These colors truly makes the space feel grounded and peaceful. By then adding small touches of natural colors, such as green plants or even clay-colored pottery, the Wabi Sabi interior design will shine even more.
How to Incorporate Wabi Sabi Interior Design in Your Home
Time to implement the style into your home! Now that you understand the core elements of Wabi Sabi interior design, I think it’s time to discuss how you can incorporate this style into your own space. So, here’s a little guide I made for you:
1. Living Room: A Cozy, Imperfect Sanctuary of Wabi Sabi Interior Design
Let’s start with the living room – a place we use to relax and hang out after a long day. When decorating a Wabi Sabi inspired living room, focus on natural textures, such as linen cushions, wool throws and wooden furniture. And remember – don’t worry about everything matching perfectly, instead, let each piece add its own unique character.
I will give you an example, I saw a picture on pinterest a while ago where it was a large aged wooden dining table and a mix of different wooden chairs around the table. Some we vintage and some newer, but the mix was just so beautiful, they all fit together organically. It made the space look comfortable and lived-in, rather than just a showroom.
2. Bedroom: A Peaceful Retreat
When it comes to the bedroom, it’s important to create a calming atmosphere in order for you to be able to relax for the night. So, stick to a simple, neutral color palette with soft fabrics that will create an inviting feeling. I personally love using linen sheets since they feel natural, breathable and have a beautiful texture.
If you want to learn more about what bed sheet to choose and what’s the best material choice, check out this post on how to choose the perfect bed sheets.
Also, remember to not over-clutter your bedroom. Instead, focus on meaningful objects – such as a piece of art you love. These small touches will make the space feel more personal and authentic.
3. Kitchen and Dining: Handmade, Timeless Pieces
Handmade ceramics! In the kitchen and dining areas, opt for beautiful handmade ceramics, but also raw wood and other natural materials. For instance, in a kitchen, it’s beautiful with aged open shelvings where you can place dishware, mugs and bowls in a Wabi Sabi style. They might have a few imperfections, but they’re perfect for this style.
4. Decor Accessories: Embrace the Imperfect Wabi Sabi Interior Design
When it comes to decor, Wabi Sabi is about choosing items that truly reflect the passage of time or even nature’s creation. Think handcrafted pottery, rough wood sculptures and acstract art with lots of texture. All of these things make sure the passage of time is shown in their ageing in a beautiful way.
You can start by incorporating more objects that are a little worn – like a leather chair with a distressed finish or a brass candlestick holder that’s developed a patina over time. These pieces add a sense of history and life to your home.
You can find my top 15 favorite Wabi Sabi home decor picks here. Now, what’s your favorite Wabi Sabi home decor piece? Let me know in the comments!
5. Small Touches: Nature as Decor
Okay, so one of my favorite things about Wabi Sabi interior design is that it really encourages you to bring nature indoors – and I love the nature, remember? So, if you do to, bring in fresh flowers in a simple vase, stones, driftwood or a potted plant that will add life and warmth to a room. And because these elements change with the seasons, they will also remind you of the imperfections that Wabi Sabi home decor encourages.
What’s your favorite thing about Wabi Sabi interior design?
Mindful Living with Wabi Sabi Interior Design
Wabi Sabi is not just about the looks and aestheitc, it actually also promotes a mindful living – just like Minimalism. It encourages you to slow down and appreciate the moment, but also to surroind yourself with things that actually brings you joy. I think this is such a beautiful view and something we all must get so much better on.
I’ve found that if I’m focusing on the beauty of the imperfect in my home, I’ve also been able to create a home that’s not only beautiful, but also has a meaning to it. Isn’t it beautiful? I love this kind of thinking!
Wabi Sabi on a Budget: Embrace the Imperfect Without Breaking the Bank
The great thing about Wabi Sabi interior design is that you don’t have to spend that much money on it. Some of my favorite pieces are thrifted or found secondhand and since Wabi Sabi home decor focuses a lot on aged things, you don’t have to replace them as often. Here are a few tips for incorporating Wabi Sabi on a budget:
- Thrift Stores: Look for vintage furniture, ceramics, and other unique pieces that have the natural imperfections.
- DIY Projects: Distress a piece of furniture yourself. Sand down a chair or table to give it a more worn, authentic feel.
- Nature Walks: Collect stones, branches or pinecones during a walk and incorporate them into your decor.
Final Thoughts: Embrace Imperfection and Let Your Home Tell a Story
Wabi Sabi interior design is all about finding beauty in the everyday, the worn and the imperfect. It truly encourages us to let go of the need for everything to be perfect and instead celebrate authenticity. So, by incorporating these elements into your home, you can create a space that feels not only beautiful but also deeply meaningful.
Remember, your home should tell your story. Let it reflect your journey, your experiences and the things that make it uniquely yours.
Are you ready to embrace imperfection? Let me know in the comments how you’ve incorporated Wabi Sabi into your own home!
