THE ZEN OF INTERIOR TRANQUILITY

by Kathy Graf, ASID, NCIDQ
M.K.T. Interiors

Our lives are a macrocosm of activities and obligations, we need to set aside a place to nuture ourselves in our home and our work environment. Our mental well-being is the key to attaining happiness, health and prosperity. But how do we fit this into our busy lives? The home is our sanctuary so we start by making the home a beacon of peace and harmony.

SETTING ASIDE SPACE WHEN SPACE
IS AT A MINIMUM
A place to nuture yourself could be anywhere in your home: a guest room, an unused living room or a corner of your bedroom. If you really look at your home, you're sure to find a space you can transform into your very own tranquil zone.

When you set aside a few moments of quiet time in a soothing environment you can take the time to explore and release blocked energies, which in turn can bring about a greater appreciation of your life. It's important to take the time to heal your inner self from the constant barrage of this hectic world we live in.

Color and art provide a wonderful avenue that takes your mind and heart into the exterior manifestation of light and love. Think of color as a feathering of the nest whereas warm, nuturing colors (golden yellow to reddish purple to cinnabar oranges) combine with soft textures to stimulate your brain and result in chemical reactions that stimulate hormonal responses of loving ourselves and our family. Combine these colors with art – whether it be painting or sculpture, contemporary or traditional, it makes no difference, simply choose something with soothing colors or shapes that appeal to you and evokes a sense of peace and tranquility. Further, look to specific images that you intuitively recognize and which will bring about a calming sensation within yourself.

	Mikado 2 sectional in a custom fabric designed by Missoni. Exclusively at Roche-Bobois, Suite 22.

Now that the mood is set, take into account the furnishings. Today, there is an abundance of versatile furniture that is both comfortable and functional, such as a sofa that doubles as a bed so that the area can be used when guests arrive. Or, a low, relaxing floor sofa that invites all together at the end of a long day of activities.

PULLING IT ALL TOGETHER
Interior designers are trained to create environments that bring about unity, rhythm and balance. By utilizing the services of a professional interior designer, you are sure to create that peaceful spot in your home that will allow you to utilize your quiet time, in a constructive way, to bring about the awareness of many things we would otherwise never be able to bring to the surface. Taking time to explore and release blocked energies can bring about greater appreciation and joy and can help us to heal from the constant barrage of the world.

To view a bio and additional work samples from Kathy Graf, click here