72 LONGISLANDPRESS.COM • DECEMBER 2019
PRESS HOME
DANISH AND JAPANESE DESIGN TRENDS TAKE HOLD IN U.S.
“You have to live with intention and
practice mindfulness every day,
knowing that you have a goal,” says
Certified Professional Organizer/
Feng Shui Consultant Cynthia Braun,
who has been helping many Long Island
families find calm through order
for years.
“My clients say they would like to
achieve a minimalist lifestyle, but
most people have an emotional attachment
to their stuff and can’t let
go,” she adds. “There’s also a need to
fill up empty spaces.”
And that’s a big no-no in wellness
design.
STYLISH FUNCTIONALITY
Sophisticated and eye-catching, hygge
decor can be seen everywhere these
days and is reflected in warm, sunny
living spaces that feature a neutral
color scheme mixed with earthy hues
drawn from nature, streamlined
furnishings (mid-century modern
styles, etc.), furry accent rugs and
snuggly throws, natural materials,
and decorative pillows in a variety
of textures, including faux fur.
At the heart of these spaces sits an
inviting gathering spot where everyone
feels welcome and families can
unwind together.
“More and more of my clients have
been asking for cozy, comfortable
hygge spaces in their homes,” says
local designer Sandra Asdourian.
“They want a room to relax in,
something less formal. They may be
having an elegant cocktail party in
their living room, but want a family
room that’s relaxed.
“Big sectional sofas with lots of pillows
in neutral nature fabrics and
textures,” she continues. “A place to
sink into and put your feet up while
reading or watching TV. Also, room
to play board games or cards with
friends and family.”
WELL HOME TIPS
Scientists have found a connection between
acquisition and unhappiness.
A great way to jump-start your wellness
journey at home and find more
inner peace in the new year is by
getting rid of things that don’t bring
joy, clearing surfaces, creating more
space, and moving furniture around
to free up the circulation flow. Find
a relaxing nook near a sunny window;
reboot with a Zen meditation/
yoga corner. Bring the outside in with
nature views or greenery like spider
plants and bamboo palms that purify
the air (or use a room purifier); add an
indoor fountain.
DIY hygge design ideas are easy to
achieve.
“It all ties into great feng shui,” says
Braun, who’s a wiz at transforming
spaces by bringing in positive energy,
good fortune, and tranquility
through the magic of furniture placement
and symbolic colors.
WABI-SABI
Rooted in Asian philosophy dating
back 5,000 years, another popular
trend celebrates life’s imperfections,
authenticity, and a lived-in feeling.
The antithesis of a ‘too-much’ society,
Japanese-inspired wabi-sabi is the
search for timeless wisdom. In decorating,
the key attributes are asymmetry,
irregularity, simplicity, and modesty.
Choose natural-looking pieces that
show wear over time, such as leather,
wood, and linen, and simple, modern
furniture. Highlight old elements;
objects with patina add charm and excitement.
Honor ceramics; mix styles
and finishes; avoid bright colors.
Both hygge and wabi-sabi philosophies
promote a sense of well-being
and value quality of life over material
things.
So, celebrate the true meaning of family
and snuggle up with loved ones,
break bread with good friends, and
reimagine your living space.
continued from page 71
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