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

Entrance / Foyer

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.

Living Space / Reception

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.

Common Dining

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.

Private Spaces – Design meets the personal narrative of rejuvenation:

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.

Additional Spaces/ Interesting Spaces

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

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