In the world of interior design, there is a fine line between “bold” and “busy.” To find that perfect equilibrium, we often look to the Dictionary of Colour Combinations by Sanzo Wada.

My latest print, the Japanese Sun, is a direct homage to this timeless Japanese colour theory. By pairing a deep, grounding Indigo (Ai-iro) with a soft, ethereal Cream, and accented by Muted Teal sunbeams, we create a visual dialogue known as Wabi-Sabi—finding beauty in simplicity.

Why these colours work:

• The Navy/Indigo Base: In Japanese culture, indigo represents stability and the vastness of the ocean or mountains. It provides a “weight” to the bottom of the frame that feels secure.
• The Cream Sun: Rather than a stark white, the cream offers a vintage warmth that feels lived-in and inviting.
• The Teal Sunbeams: This unexpected secondary tone bridges the gap between the dark mountain and the bright sun, creating a rhythmic harmony that draws the eye upward.

Whether you’re looking to ground your workspace or add a focal point to a minimalist bedroom, this palette brings a sense of intentionality to your walls.