To understand the Zen applied to the decoration is essential to know in advance the basis of Zen as a way of life or spiritual discipline.

The true roots of Zen mystic and philosophical are in the life and teachings of Buddha in the sixth century BC, and even further back, to the spiritual traditions of Hinduism contained in the Vedas. The Zen reaches its ultimate expression in Japan in mid XIII century, profoundly influenced the mentality and customs of traditional Japanese culture, which still continues to be taught and practiced today in various Zen schools and monasteries

In the last decades of the twentieth century, the West Zen influence reaches its philosophy and practice in various fields, including architecture and decoration.

The philosophy or spiritual basis of Zen (indispensable for understanding its impact on western decor) focuses on seeking enlightenment and inner peace and harmony through simple, everyday actions (as the legacy of the Buddha), providing at all times support for daily living.

The art of painting or calligraphy, meditation, rituals, martial arts, the ceremony of serving tea or arranging flowers are some of the activities that are defining and influencing the Zen simplicity in your daily life .

Each of these activities is aimed at enlightenment. All explore various features of the Zen experience and can be used to train the mind and bring it into contact with ultimate reality. These same concepts and searches are those that inspire the Zen in the West, bringing their style of life to the buildings, objects and forms of contemporary life.

Although we find it simpler to understand some basic concepts of Zen, Zen approach the criterion, delve deep into his philosophy. For this we have a few paragraphs clarifying the book “The Tao of Physics” by Fritjof Capra:

“The Zen is a unique blend of philosophies and idiosyncrasies of three different cultures. It is a typically Japanese way of life, yet it reflects the mysticism of India, the love of naturalness and spontaneity of Taoism and deep pragmatism Confucianism mind. “