At the heart of The Zen Haven lies a design ethos that reflects the serene balance of Japanese minimalism and Scandinavian mid-century’s celebration of form and function. This residential space in Mysore is a sanctuary, a respite from the relentless pace of urban existence, and an homage to mindful living.
The architectural narrative of Zen Haven unfolds through the conscientious use of space, where less becomes more and every element serves a purpose. The muted color palette is not merely a choice but an intention, a visual quietude that calms the mind and soothes the soul. It pays homage to the wabi-sabi aesthetic — finding beauty in imperfection, and the lagom principle — just the right amount.
Natural materials play a pivotal role; wood, stone, and textiles are chosen for their inherent ability to harmonize with the elements. Light, both natural and crafted, is a central character in this design story. The architecture dances with the light, allowing it to define and refine the space, creating an ever-evolving canvas that reflects the passage of time. Zen Haven is more than a design style; it’s a philosophy for living — a manifesto of simplicity, harmony, and functionality that transforms daily living into an art form. It is a mindful orchestration of space that invites the residents to pause, reflect, and live with intention.
A Design Ethos That Reflects The Serene Balance Of Japanese Minimalism | Vaktra Architects
As one steps into The Zen Haven, the entrance acts as a prelude to the home’s serene narrative. The materials are chosen for their organic warmth and textural interplay, while the sparse adornment is deliberate, ensuring the space remains uncluttered yet inviting. The foyer stands as a testament to minimalism, not just as a style but as an experience, ushering inhabitants and guests into a realm of peacefulness.
Delve deeper into the abode, the living space unfolds as a social tapestry, woven with threads of comfort and aesthetic restraint. This is where the home breathes, a spacious cocoon designed for interaction, relaxation, and contemplative solitude.
The subdued colour schemes and natural textures serve as a canvas for life’s moments, harmonizing with the gentle influx of daylight that brings the outside in.
The dining room is the Zen Haven’s dynamic core, a communal space that balances intimacy with openness.
This is where the culinary rituals of the day take centre stage, surrounded by a kitchen that champions efficiency.
The dining area functions as a hub of conversation and connection. It is crafted with an openness that extends both physically and socially. Thus, it reinforces the home’s central philosophy of unity and harmony.
Each bedroom is sculpted to be a personal retreat. As a result, it echoes the home’s overarching minimalist theme yet providing a canvas for individual expression.
The use of muted tones, alongside the natural textures of wood and cane in the furniture, creates a restorative ambiance.
The Zen Haven’s design extends its embrace to the balcony, terrace, and courtyard. The boundaries between indoor and outdoor blur. These spaces are dialogues with nature, inviting the rhythms of the outside world into the serene interiority of the home. The balcony serves as a perch to the world, offering vistas that extend the living space beyond its physical confines.
The conceptual spark for The Zen Haven germinated from a confluence of cultural and architectural ideologies, primarily Japanese minimalism and Scandinavian mid-century design principles. The profound Japanese concept of ‘Ma’ — the respectful appreciation of the empty space as part of the whole — plays a central role, inviting inhabitants to embrace the void as an essential component of living. This is paralleled by the Scandinavian notion of ‘Hygge,’ which champions the creation of cozy and contented environments. It’s in the synthesis of these two philosophies that Zen Haven finds its unique essence.
Fact File
Designed by: Vaktra Architects
Project Type: Residential Interior Design
Project Name: Legom
Location: Mysore, Karnataka
Year Built: 2023
Duration of the project: 10 Months
Project Size: 2500 Sq.ft
Principal Architect: Ar. Badarul Insaf
Team Design Credits: Ar. Salwa, Ar. Hadhiya & Ar. Marsad
Photograph Courtesy: concreto_grapher
Firm’s Instagram Link: Vaktra Architects
For Similar Project>> A Home that Exudes an Organic Lifestyle, with Spaces Specifically Designed to be Meditative
Tucked away in the folds of the Sahyadri hills, this 6,500-square-foot villa offers a sanctuary far removed from Mumbai’s restless rhythm. The design of the home is inspired by the client’s fondness for North India’s hill stations, places where old-world sentiment naturally blends with the appeal of modern rustic houses. A harmonious palette of muted […]
The 3 bhk bungalow of 1600 sq. ft is located in Gandhidham, Kachchh, Gujarat. It is a 3-bedroom bungalow design that serves as a home for a family of six, who are traditionally driven and rooted in their culture and the simplicity of life. They required a swing to have in the living room for […]
Our design philosophy centres around harmonious contrast—the art of blending diverse materials in a way that feels both bold and balanced. In this project, we’ve subtly mixed different metals such as gold, chrome, and black accents throughout the space. Reflecting our approach to artistic interior designs, these metallic touches have been thoughtfully integrated to enhance […]
Rooted in nature, this thoughtfully designed farmhouse interior embraces a calming palette that evokes composure and ease. The space feels both open and intimate, creating a true haven for unhurried conversations, personal reflection, and everyday moments of quiet luxury. This Farmhouse Interior Evokes Composure and Ease | D.K Design Lab Living Room This living room […]
When it comes to enhancing the kitchen window over the sink, various design ideas are possible to decorate Indian homes. From rooted in tradition to Western-style modular kitchens offer both functionality and attractive aesthetics. Apart from the sleek profile and raised breakfast counter, the kitchen window over sink is another spot to add appeal and […]
Pillar design is a cornerstone of architectural elegance, seamlessly blending structural support with aesthetic appeal. Our blog, “50 Best Pillar Design Inspirations,” celebrates this essential element, showcasing a variety of styles from classical Doric and Ionic to contemporary and avant-garde innovations. Whether you’re an architect, interior designer, or a design enthusiast, these pillar design inspirations […]
We have listed the 20 Best Architects and Designers in and around Ahmedabad, Gujarat who has shaped some of the best architectural residences and commercial spaces. Of the many architects in Ahmedabad, these shortlisted few are the ones with an array of award-winning projects done by them that puts them over the edge which will […]