Natural materials, subdued lighting and decor, the Zen terrace invites itself onto small terraces and balconies for a moment of well-being, in harmony with nature. Need a dose of inspiration? Discover our selection of Zen terraces.
4 practical decorative tips for creating a zen terrace
Appreciated for its elegance and minimalist design, the Zen terrace is the talk of the trendiest decoration stores. We explain how to create one at home.
In a Zen terrace or a garden, it is essential to create a space that promotes relaxation. Indeed, water point, green plants and natural stones come together and mix to create a harmonious outdoor environment, a place of peace where you can do your meditation sessions.
1. What colors and materials for a Zen terrace?
Wood, natural stone, bamboo and gravel are materials reminiscent of Zen terraces. Indeed, drawn in simple lines and in minimalist designs, laid in asymmetrical ways, these materials are revealed in roundness.
As for colors, the most popular shades are natural and earthy colors such as beige, greige, black and white, to which are added shades of green thanks to plants, and shades of red thanks to Japanese flowers.
2. Which furniture and textiles for a Japanese and warm spirit at the same time?
The furniture of a Zen terrace must be at the same time minimalist, design and rejuvenating. In this relaxation area, bet on a round wooden or rattan coffee table accompanied by bamboo armchairs or benches. Go for garden collections at Homary!
To make the space more cocooning, add warm textiles. For example, install cushions, placed on the floor around the table or on the seats, as well as very soft throws. All in neutral colors and natural materials such as linen or organic cotton.
3. What lighting on your Zen terrace?
Lighting is also important for the creation of a Zen terrace. To create a soft and warm atmosphere, opt for a soft and warm light thanks to candles placed in vases or candle holders: enough to underline the relaxed and contemplative atmosphere.
4. What decorative objects make the difference?
If you want to mark the Zen tone of your terrace, choose wooden or stone elements such as lanterns or a small Buddha. The must ? A fountain representing Buddha, to bring the water element to your Zen terrace.
Which plants for a Zen terrace? Our 5 favorite varieties
The beauty of a Zen terrace is also based on the plants chosen. Opt for Asian species or Feng Shui plants.
Here are 5 plants for your Zen terrace:
- Japanese maple: the essential of terraces and Zen gardens. The Japanese maple offers pretty light foliage that oscillates from green to red.
- The pine: a strong symbol in Japan, the pine reveals evergreen foliage and permanent coloring. It exists in varieties of dwarf pines or in bonsai.
- The prunus: the Japanese cherry tree or the almond tree. They are also two plants that offer a splendid flowering in sublime and delicate tones ranging from white to pink.
- The giant bamboo: can measure up to 9 meters high. The giant bamboo invests the spacious gardens and brings, on its own, a soothing atmosphere.
- Shrubby plants: camellia, azalea, rhododendron or even magnolia benefit from abundant flowering and beautiful colored foliage.
The smallest plants can be placed in planters with a minimalist design and always in sober and neutral colors. You can also opt for pots made of raw materials such as wood or concrete. Our decoration experts have selected a few pots that are ideal for Zen terraces.
4 elements for a Zen terrace connected to nature
Also called Karesansui in Japanese, Zen gardens and Zen terraces are composed mainly of stone, which is then one of the fundamental elements to build an outdoor space, built in harmony with nature. Here are 4 elements for your Zen terrace that evoke nature:
- A water source.
- Plants, preferably Zen-inspired, such as bamboo or dwarf conifers.
- Sand to make a dry garden.
- Stones, both rough rocks and smooth round pebbles.
These 4 elements must be distributed precisely in the space of your terrace. The water element is preferably located in the center of the terrace, surrounded by stones and gravel. Water must be able to flow smoothly, as its soothing sound is an integral part of the Zen garden.
