Plascon House Tour: Wabi Sabi & The Beauty Of The Imperfect

A totally serene, natural and earthy retreat, this London home celebrates the Japanese tradition of wabi-sabi, appreciating the beauty of a naturally imperfect world and reflecting this in your interior.

Dressed in silver chestnut, this tranquil home is a kind of monastic oasis boasting an interior garden designed by Takero Shimazaki Architects. The design skilfully combines light with a simple, textured palette of concrete, natural wood and stone.

The space feels minimalist yet connected to the natural world. Wabi sabi is an ancient aesthetic philosophy rooted in Zen Buddhism. In interior design the trend is to celebrate beauty in what’s natural, flaws and all. So what may appear as an unfinished room with matte walls and ceiling has become a feature worth celebrating here.

Raw wood installation become a prized addition to the design of this home, along with stone and raw concrete that add texture and interest to this space. Tones of grey are found in every area – from floors to ceiling and we love the simplicity and flow that occurs from one room to the next.

Concrete slabs become the focal point in the bedroom – a statement feature behind the main bed. An old wooden feature takes the form of a bedside table – bringing a natural, earthy quality to this space. Mixed textiles on the bed add colour and pattern here and the room feels uncomplicated, uncluttered and definitely hints at that Japanese zen feeling that the entire design trend aims to achieve in this space.

Stonework and cement continue into the bathroom where a simple palette of grey and white forms the basis of this space. A metal-framed stand in black becomes the fixture for the sink and a simple archway is a statement architectural detail in this space.

The shower, on the other hand, is beautiful in its patterned detail and deep shade of emerald green. Overhead lighting adds functional illumination to this space while a brass showerhead adds a vintage touch.