The Wabi-Sabi House
The Japanese Art of Imperfect Beauty






Wabi-sabi is the marriage of the Japanese wabi, meaning humble, and sabi, which connotes beauty in the progression of time. Together, the phrase invites us to set aside our pursuit of perfection and learn to appreciate the simple, unaffected beauty of things as they are. Wabi-sabi can be found in the deep cracks of a weathering, hand-made table. It is flea markets, wildflowers, and cobblestones. Intimately tied to Zen Buddhism, wabi-sabi is an aesthetic that invites comfort and welcomes a subtle spiritual component into the home.

In the wake of feng shui, wabi-sabi is set to become the next “big thing” in home design. The Wabi-Sabi House recounts the rich history of this emerging trend and reveals countless ways to introduce wabi-sabi elements into contemporary living spaces, from clearing clutter and blocking noise to gracefully integrating salvaged materials and artisan wares at home. But The Wabi-Sabi House is so much more than a decorator’s handbook. Author Robyn Griggs Lawrence also gently reminds us that there is a “life” in “lifestyle” books, and teaches readers to slow down and discover joy and beauty in what may seem ordinary.

Authoritative, intimate, and beautifully designed, The Wabi-Sabi House is the most accessible and comprehensive book available on this subject to date.
"Finally, a decorating book that says your apartment looks beautiful just the way it is."
--Maureen Shelly, Time Out New York
Buy This Book
Contact the Author
Home
What is Wabi-Sabi?
Real World Wabi-Sabi
Your Wabi-Sabi Life
About the Author