If there is one thing about city living that everyone can relate to, it is that sometimes, one needs to take a breather. What if you could take that breather and recharge without having to leave the big city? That would only be possible if you lived in a serene and comfortable abode.

This is the reason why more and more designers and home owners apply the Zen philosophy in their own homes. Zen is a sect in Buddhism relating to meditation and calmness. Applied to interior design, the Zen style reflects simplicity, harmony, and balance. It creates an atmosphere that neutralizes the everyday hustle and bustle of city living.

Fancy your own zen paradise at home? Start with these 10 simple ways to turn your condo into a zen paradise.

1. Let there be light
Zen design is bringing the nature in. Letting natural light fill your home brings the outside in and makes your home look more calm, warm, and fresh. In addition, tables and floor lamps with diffused lighting also give rooms a warm soft glow and relaxing atmosphere.

2. Bring in plants and flowers
Using fresh flowers and plants is another way of bringing in nature. These pleasing elements enhance your interior space and add to the space’s calm, soothing atmosphere. If you are not sure how to take care of your leafy friend; succulents, snake plant, and golden pothos are low maintenance houseplants forgiving enough to first-time gardeners.

3. Tidy up
Aesthetics aside, a clean home is a comfortable home. Housework, like meditation, is a mind and spirit detox. Clear the table, do the dishes, and make your bed daily so you can face the day with a fresh and clear mind.

4. Clear the clutter
Make it a habit to dispose of unnecessary items that clutter your condo. This does not necessarily mean throwing them in the garbage – try donating them to charitable institutions. Surround yourself only with the essentials and things that bring you comfort. Take de-cluttering tips from the popular KonMari method and other organizing techniques.

5. Stick to soft color palette
A Zen-inspired design is about creating a clean base. Natural colors in soft hues have the power to induce calmness and relaxation. Clean white walls open up space, beige tones warm up the room and soft blue in the bedroom are said to help you catch some z’s.

6. Keep furniture simple and natural
Zen style furniture is simple and minimalist, free from complicated detail and excess trimmings. Invest in pieces made of earthy materials such as wood, rattan, clay, and cork. The earthy ambience of the furnishings will add warmth and character to your condo.

7. Choose natural and light fabrics
Fabrics should also be natural, light, and comfortable. One of the staples of a zen décor are curtains, as it provides a sense of intimacy and privacy to spaces. Use natural textiles, such as linen, for your curtains for that airy look and feel. For your bed, go for natural textiles like linen, mohair, and fleece for throws, blankets and covers.

8. Leave a blank space
“Ma” is the Japanese word for space. It suggests adding a negative space or interval in room designs. Negative space means leaving a particular spot unadorned to provide visual balance to the whole room. This approach will not only make a room look cleaner and more spacious, but will also help the positive energy flow throughout your home.

9. Enjoy aromatherapy at home
Fresh scents can be both soothing and invigorating. Lavender is a relaxing fragrance that can help you unwind at night, citrus is bright zest that can refresh the kitchen, while a whiff of peppermint can promote concentration. You can also create your own homemade stovetop potpourri by simmering water in small sauce pan with slices of citrus, your favorite herbs, spices and essential oils.

10. Keep the electronics to a minimum – and cords out of sight
Electronic gadgets at home are often a distraction and do not go well with the zen philosophy. As much as possible, keep the gadgets out of sight. Make sure to organize and tuck away all cables and cords for an uninterrupted serene atmosphere.

The Grand Midori Ortigas is a two-tower Zen-inspired sanctuary designed by world-renowned Japanese architecture firm Tange Associates. The Grand Midori Ortigas will feature minimalist interior design and Japanese gardens that will foster relaxation and recreation amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.

Your home should always be a place for you to relax and unwind even if you reside in the middle of a bustling metropolis. This balance of bliss and excitement can be found at The Grand Midori Ortigas. Discover inspired living from the land of the rising sun where you can live and unwind with zen-inspired amenities in a Japanese themed residence.

Interested in a zen-inspired condominium residence? Check out www.midori.com.ph.