TOP RIGHT : ERIC FIGGE PHOTOGRAPHY |
on a course of action to repair or correct them . It therefore allows our mind to find that stability and balance needed to continue daily life .”
Discover how to turn your house into a Zen-like oasis with these tips from local experts .
THE BUILDING ’ S BONES Not everyone will have a say in the structure of their space , but those who do can create calming homes right down to the building ’ s bones . According to Brion Jeannette , lead architect at Brion Jeannette Architecture , the orientation of the house is just as important as what ’ s inside .
“ The art of feng shui is really letting nature become part of the balance of your life ,” he explains . “… Start the day off with sun coming in the kitchen and family area . You don ’ t want to have those spaces on the evening , or north , side of the house ; you want them on the east side .” The entrance ? Face it south , he says .
But there are a few things that should be avoided as well : Don ’ t point the stairs toward the front door , as your wealth will escape , and ensure there are no nearby roofs pointing at the windows like daggers .
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Do , however , consider a zigzag entryway , which takes guests on a little trip when approaching the front .
Once you venture inward , Jeannette recommends creating quiet , pensive spaces that you can retreat to by adding landscaped areas for a natural touch . Courtyards can also be relaxing , in addition to rooms designed for yoga or meditation .
“ Living our busy lives in a loud world , our home is often the only space [ where ] we can relax and exhale ,” Brigham says . “ No matter what your responsibilities at home , everyone should have a space that is tranquil to the senses .”
But save these calming spaces solely for rooms where that type of atmosphere is needed . “ Home gyms and … offices should give us energy and not necessarily tranquility ,” Sumerford notes .
SERENE SCENES When it comes to decorating , interior design plays a pivotal role in the feel of the home . One of the most important choices you ’ ll make is selecting the color scheme . Sumerford suggests calming colors , from lavender or baby blue to soft gray , peach or white .
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Jeannette agrees : “ The light greens and blues that are not in your face seem to be the colors that are most comfortable ; [ they ] tend to be the ones that support the concepts of feng shui really nicely .”
As far as materials , he recommends using natural substances , like different types of wood , to both decorate and build the interior space , adding that mahogany and cherry woods are always a hit . “ These evoke — right off the bat — a warm feeling ,” he notes .
Breathable , versatile fabrics can be used to add life to the space as well , with soft cottons , bamboos and linens being ideal options for Sumerford . Add some texture to give yourself something to focus on while unwinding or meditating as well , with silky suede or smooth velvet pillows and blankets .
Once the base is in place , begin layering in furniture and decor . “ Zen spaces should be minimalistic , comfortable and functional ,” Sumerford notes . Try to avoid hard lines ; rounded corners are ideal . Soft chairs or sofas with footstools can offer a place to kick back with your feet up . Or , Brigham says , opt for furniture that is comfortable in width and depth , such as a chaise lounge or chairs that you can curl up in .
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NEWPORT BEACH MAGAZINE 59 |