Harmony in a Zen Kitchen

The basis of Zen is relating to the present and not focusing on outside thoughts. This basic principle of Eastern thought can be brought to modern design by one word: minimalism. A minimalist kitchen will have the bare essentials, each with a specified use. To create this sense of balance and harmony, stick with colors that can be found in nature, such as natural woods for the cabinetry and accent colors in greens and blues. If you are scared to use a bold color for fear of it interfering in the balance of your kitchen design, use touches of the same color throughout the space to create a theme.

Once you have selected your color palate, accent these features with a new kitchen faucet. A new kitchen faucet will look impressive in your kitchen and will still follow the guidelines of Zen design: it is an essential element to the kitchen. Select a model with a metal finish such as satin or bronze. These finishes available in kitchen faucets are reminiscent of metals found in nature.

To bring out the look of your new kitchen faucet, accent it with matching cabinet hardware. Try not to invest in any cabinet hardware that has a more ornate and decorative finish; remember that Zen design promotes simplicity and balance. Select a style with a clean look that will not be distracting to the eye; but enhancing to the elements in your kitchen design.

To complete the look of your new kitchen, set it off with a new kitchen light fixture. Select a light fixture that will match the colors of the materials used in your space. If you want to create elegant design with functionality, install a kitchen ceiling fan. Ceiling fans are practical in a kitchen because they allow you to control the comfort levels in the space. Select a fan with a clean design that coordinates to the components of other metals in your room.

If you have room in your budget for a full-on renovation, install stainless steel appliances. The stainless steel finish will coordinate with your new kitchen faucet. If you are also on the market for a new kitchen counter, select a granite counter top. Granite is available in hundreds of finishes and can be the punch of color you are looking to incorporate into your kitchen.

If budget is a factor between these two updates, decide which is more practical for your lifestyle. If you practice a lot of cooking, invest more of your budget into professional quality appliances. If you are looking to create a soothing and inviting space to entertain in, you may decide to splurge a bit of your budget on a stylish new granite countertop that will surely impress company.

Now that you have finished updating your kitchen, it is time to enjoy it. You should notice a feeling of serenity, allowing for a harmonious flow in the space. Your kitchen design should look simple and clean. Remember that to create harmony with Zen design, you do not have to break the bank: stick to colors and finishes found in nature with the basic touches such as your cabinet hardware. Without the clutter of unnecessary objects and the distraction of unneeded elements, you should be able to focus on your endeavors within the space with a heightened sense of awareness.