How do I create a ZEN style interior in a small sapce with a very limited budget?

Question

The living room space is about 2 meters by 3.5 meters including the dining area + living room. Just rented a small space.

Answer 1

Well, the first thing to do is get rid of everything. You may be able to find some reed mats at a dollar store (they'll be more available in the summer, though) that will do as flooring. If you are handy, you can make a twig wainscotting. Furniture is extremely simple. A sleeping futon and futon quilt that you can fold up and stash in the closet. A small coffee table in wood with lots of air underneath to serve as a dining table and coffee table. Zabuton cushions -- splurge on these if you can. Very simple dishes. For lighting, see if you can get a bare dangling bulb, and cover it with a paper lantern. One subdued floor lamp is good too.

For decoration, you can get a calligraphy kit and try your hand at writing something yourself, or just do a meaningful slogan in English (black ink on white paper, best handwriting). Also, in a large bowl, arrange twigs and any flowers of the season that you can find. (You'll need to buy a kenzan, which looks like a mini-bed of nails -- it's great for keeping the flowers and twigs upright.)

The key to zen is simplicity that speaks to your heart. Every item in there must be well-loved and very functional. If you don't love it, don't bring it in.

Good luck!

Answer 2

I agreee with Madam M. One thing I would add.....can't have a Zen room without a small Zen garden. A simple small dish with some sand in it and one or two small rocks placed in it.