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Iconic British potters Denby have teamed up with designers, Jordan Cluroe and Russell Whitehead of 2LG Studio, to reveal the makings of a mindful kitchen.
Whilst mindfulness is a hot topic today, it's certainly not a new concept. 'It's thousands of years old and was first used in Buddhist meditation,' psychologist Niels Eek, co-founder of personal wellbeing app Remente, explained to us whilst discussing how effective mindfulness is in today's high-pressured society. 'Its main purpose is to allow you to become more present in everyday life and thus improve your relationship with those around you.'
It's more important than ever to cultivate a way of life that encourages better wellbeing, and starting at home is a good idea. The kitchen in particular is a hub of activity and often the hardest working room in the house, but whilst kitchens adapt well to multiple use, they can also become cluttered, chaotic spaces if not managed well.
We know that using energising and vibrant tones of yellow (albeit sparingly) is great for kitchens, but paler, muted tones will help to give your kitchen a mindful refresh. For example, blue is a naturally cooling and calming colour that's also associated with productivity. 'Blues are connected to the sky and to water, and they are associated with clear thinking and calm, meditative environments,' says Anna Starmer in The Colour Scheme Bible.
Bearing this in mind, Denby's new handcrafted collection, Studio Blue, is inspired by the calming blue tones and raw textures of stone and minerals. Available exclusively at John Lewis, the speckled glazes combined with a soothing colour palette and tactile textures look stylish when stacked together and complement existing tableware.
If you want to create a stylish kitchen and contemporary dining area, with peaceful interiors and a relaxed space for entertaining, then read on for 2LG's top tips on serene styling that's perfect for the modern home.
Blue hues can help a complex and busy world feel simpler as this colour ignites a sense of calm. Pair blue ceramics with warm woods and natural linen for a palette that is both effortless and classic. Stacks of Studio Blue bowls and plates, in four natural tones, are both calming and pleasing on the eye.
Pictured: Denby Studio Blue Tableware, £18 - £50, John Lewis BUY NOW
Make room for things to be put away and leave open shelves free to house only the most loved objects. Having the things you need to hand can help you create a mindful display that is both functional and beautiful. Jars of healthy pulses and wholegrains next to stacks of handcrafted ceramics also remind you to look after yourself and your body.
Read more on open shelving and hidden storage in the kitchen.
Plants such as Aloe Vera and Peace Lillies purify air in the home whilst offering the opportunity to be in the moment as you water and care for them. Use bowls and mugs to plant succulents and ferns, giving a coherence to the kitchen as a whole. You can even use a jug for watering and let it live next to the plants for ease.
Creating a space in the home for mindful moments, with soft cushions and throws made from natural fibres, makes it easier to remember to allow that restful time. A nook by the window also connects you to the outdoors as you sip your warming green tea from your favourite mug.
Pictured: Spectrum Violet Mist roman blind, from £28.75, Blinds 2 Go BUY NOW
Have friends round and let yourself enjoy the occasion with them – don’t get stuck in the kitchen. Create sharing dishes, you’ll get to enjoy the conversation and they’ll feel more at home by serving themselves. A large wooden board creates a wonderful centrepiece for relaxed dining, while bowl food is perfect for more informal entertaining occasions.
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