THE POTENTIAL OF EMPTINESS MU

Mu is a concept that is translated as “emptiness.” The more accurate meaning is “space with potential.” a room that is empty allows for focus relaxing recentering being an atmosphere that fuses the comfort of the inside the beauty of the outside a place to find balance physical mental spiritual a space that in its emptiness becomes useful

This interior is an attempt to capture this concept which is found in many Japanese homes, tea rooms, and temples.

The sparse furniture and decor is a reflection of Mu leaving very little to distract. The simplicity of the objects and furnishings embody the ideals behind “wabi”, which are humility, being free from materialism, and staying in harmony with nature.

The aesthetic is intended to bring one’s focus back to a state of zen or “empty mind”.

The sunken built-in seating provides the feeling of being grounded and presents a humble view of nature. The large windows can be opened to create a dining space for eight people.

There is a series of shelves to display various books and decor items. The shelf provides storage space for the zabuton floor pillows, used for sitting and meditating comfortably on the tatami floor.

The bonded bamboo floors gradually transition to the stone of the garden, which blends the line between the interior space and the outdoors.

The exterior bonsai garden, with a bamboo deer scare, enhances the connection with nature and contributes the element of flowing water. The subtle wave in the truss timbers is a visual representation of the element of wind that can flow through the space.

The intention was to create a space that provided an open yet comfortable atmosphere, close to nature, and without distractions