Wabi Sabi inspired interior celebrates the beauty of the perfectly imperfect

Wabi Sabi inspired interior celebrates the beauty of the perfectly imperfect

When our clients, two eloquent writers, sought to redesign their home, they envisioned a space that reflected the Japanese philosophy of Wabi Sabi—an aesthetic celebrating natural beauty, imperfection, and craftsmanship. Their clear brief called for a tactile, natural, and thoughtful design that avoided the overly polished or glam while honoring the craft of the maker. The result? A home that feels like a breath of fresh air—light, harmonious, and grounded in nature.

Interior Designer: Cori Halpern, ARIDO
Design Firm: Cori Halpern Interiors
Photographer: Valerie Wilcox

A hanging shelf on a narrow diding room wall meant to display coctail glasses and details with modern simple artwork hanging above
A simple white lamp sits on a small wooden table and a bamboo chair in a corner by the kitchen window. Colourful artwork hangs above.

Our design began with a focus on natural materials and a soft, earthy color palette inspired by a vase filled with seaside rocks. These muted tones grounded the space, creating a calming backdrop while allowing the texture and craftsmanship of each element to shine. Durable materials and understated finishes were prioritized, ensuring the home would age gracefully over time—true to the Wabi Sabi philosophy of embracing what is durable and enduring.

The layout was another critical component of the redesign. The existing furniture arrangement was impractical for both entertaining and daily living. A new configuration improved the flow of the living spaces, seamlessly blending comfort with functionality. Built-in shelving flanked a large window, providing much-needed storage while adding architectural interest. A floating quartz-topped shelf on the opposite wall offered a versatile surface for entertaining or displaying curated objects, reinforcing the balance of practicality and design.

A custom brass branch-motif light fixture hangs above the wooden oval dining room table with blue upholstered chairs around it. The built in shelf is visible in the back, next to the large window adorned with sea foam coloured curtains.

Lighting design was a key focus in transforming this home. The existing ceiling, which featured an awkward ridge, was leveled and painted a uniform color to create a seamless, cohesive look. This thoughtful adjustment eliminated visual choppiness, allowing the eye to move naturally through the space.

A custom branch-motif light fixture became the focal point of the living/dining room area, adding an organic, sculptural element that tied the design to nature. Complementing this centerpiece, thin brass fixtures and well-placed recessed lighting ensured the home felt bright and welcoming at all times of the day. This careful layering of light, both functional and decorative, contributed to the home's fresh, airy feel.

The mostly original kitchen is modernized with a linear brass lighting that hangs above the new, modern large island. The bamboo stools bring a touch of nature in.

The kitchen posed unique challenges, as the clients wanted to avoid a full renovation. The existing cabinetry and appliances were retained, but the space was elevated with a new, larger island featuring a quartz countertop. A handmade-look backsplash complemented the earthy tones of the cabinets, while cane bar stools echoed the natural aesthetic. 

The finishing details brought warmth and personality to the home. Custom drapery with a soft, wave-like pattern unified the living spaces, adding height and movement without overwhelming the design. Performance-grade fabrics were selected for their durability, ensuring the furniture would withstand everyday use while maintaining its luxurious feel.

A new wooden unit was brought in under the new Frame TV surrounded with art work. A black coffee table is in the centre of the living room couch and two chairs, ll in neutral colour scheme except one chair upholstered in a blue wavy patterned fabric.
A detail of the black coffee table with a platter of dark purple figs and a small bouquet of flowers in a dark blue glass vase.

Personalization was also key. The clients’ cherished photographs from Scotland were transformed into bespoke artwork, adding a meaningful, personal touch to the space. Even existing pieces were thoughtfully repurposed, such as a beloved rug now relocated to the office, blending the old with the new.

This redesign is a testament to the transformative power of thoughtful design. Rooted in the timeless principles of Wabi Sabi, the space celebrates natural beauty, craftsmanship, and the art of imperfection. By prioritizing light, flow, and texture, this home now feels like a serene retreat—designed to inspire, nurture, and endure.

Cori Halpern

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Cori Halpern Interiors

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