Shabui

In Japan, design is often the antithesis of Western design in its core elements. Interiors in Japan exude intention, clarity and the lines are clean and un-muddled. The essence of Japanese design has simplicity yet it is deep and contemplative with out being distracting. Some of what contributes to this “pureness” is what is called Shabui – the paring down of elements, which allows the design to truly shine.

Apparently, the term shabui cannot be translated exactly into the English lexicon. This is not surprising since American culture thrives on acquiring things. Even when we do purge ourselves of earthly goods, it is often only to replace them with something new. That is not shabui. To execute shabui take the example of the over crowded mantel. By selectively taking away a few items, the standing pieces are then allowed to express themselves and make a statement.

The word shabui also has a great ring. I have adopted it into my own personal vocabulary. Whenever I’m feeling overwhelmed by the clutter and possessions in my home I make a vocal statement that “I need to shabui” and then I set to work. It gives me purpose, focus and intention in my weeding out, then the true nature of my designs can be noticed and admired.