Sometimes you’ll look around a garden — be it your own or one in a property you’re considering buying — and be struck with the feeling that something is missing. There’s an area that needs new life breathed into it. That “something” could be a water feature, a pergola, a sculpture, — or it could be a Zen garden. If your schedule tends to be frenetic, you are likely to benefit from the serenity that comes from time spent in a Zen garden. Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty takes a deep dive into Zen gardens and how they can improve both your life and your property value.
What is a Zen garden?
A Zen garden is also called a Japanese rock garden, which tells you a lot about its character. It is a garden that boasts a minimalist arrangement of rocks, sand, gravel and wood. The design was created by Buddhist monks in Japan as a space for reflection, meditation and pure relaxation. The idea revolves around sand and gravel that can be raked in different patterns while the person raking contemplates life. The concept has spread far and wide, with Zen gardens becoming features in many different garden settings around the world, from sprawling lawns to cosy balconies.
Zen gardens emphasise spiritual principles including naturalness, simplicity and austerity. They can include plants, but if you want to create an authentic Zen garden, you should focus on low-spreading plants rather than upright ones. The ultimate goal is to create not an oasis of colour but a place conducive to introspection and meditation.
How a Zen garden can increase property value
A Zen garden creates enhanced aesthetic appeal, which could potentially increase the value of your home. Being a fairly unusual feature, a Zen garden can make your property stand out from others in your area. The fact that Zen gardens are easy to maintain could also be seen as a positive by prospective buyers. Zen gardens can also appeal to water-wise buyers and those in areas where water restrictions are likely.
Zen garden ideas that boost curb appeal and property value
The idea of creating a Zen garden is to introduce a meditative space and a relaxing oasis in your garden. It should be a serene retreat that not only increases the financial value of your property, but also enriches your soul.
Here are some ways to get creative while adhering to the cultural principles of Zen gardens:
Let simplicity and minimalism guide your decisions
The fundamental principles of Zen gardens are simplicity, minimalism and balance. Let these guide you in all your decisions. Use clean lines, carefully selected rocks and gravel or sand that’s neatly raked into patterns. When choosing your gravel or sand, look for pale hues that mimic ripples of water and promote a sense of calm as they’re raked. Depending on the size of your Zen garden, you could include stepping stones to help you navigate the setting without disturbing the raked gravel.
Introduce a water feature
Zen gardens are traditionally dry landscapes, but a small minimalist water feature can introduce a refreshing element and an appealing sound without distracting from the simplicity of the space. Consider a bamboo fountain or a stone basin with a trickle of water. A few plants, like moss, ferns or bonsais can breathe life into your Zen garden.
Use natural materials to bring in surprising features
Using textures like wood, stone and bamboo, you can introduce surprising elements to your Zen aesthetic. Think about bridges, pathways and lanterns that can break up the austerity of your traditional Zen garden.
Focus on symmetry and balance
Harmony and balance are two key tenets of Zen garden design, so consider creating a focal point (perhaps a water feature or large stone) and place the rest of the objects in your Zen garden in a structure that leads back to the focal point.
Your home should inspire you
Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty is a fantastic choice of property partner, whether you’re looking to buy or sell. If you’re looking to buy a home that already boasts a Zen garden, our team has access to a wide array of properties to find the one that’s ideal for you. With an international network of real estate experts and decades of experience, we are able to provide your property with extraordinary exposure if you’re selling your home. Get in touch and let us help you reach your property goals the tranquil way.
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