Yin Yang Bedroom Design

In Chinese mythology, Yin and Yang were born from chaos when the universe was created, shaping the universe as we know it today.

The Yin-Yang symbol has roots in Taoism/Daoism, a Chinese religion dating to the 4th century BCE. In more modern times, Yin and Yang are synonymous with harmony and balance between energies.

For example, the Yin-Yang symbol has two fishes balanced together in white and black, each carrying an eye in the colour of its counterpart:

This synergy shows how two elements work together in perfect harmony. The Yin-Yang theory theorises this is fundamental to nature and the universe, and interior designers have found that it works well when designing bedrooms.

Yin Yang's bedroom design

Consider how Yin and Yang appear every day: hot and cold, dark and light, water and fire, sleep and awake, sedentary and moving, sun and moon. Yin-Yang plays a fundamental role in our lives.

Yin-Yang plays a crucial role in Feng Shui philosophy, the "art of placement" that optimises and balances energy in bedroom design. Interior designers use the philosophy to create spaces that are balanced and harmonious.

Yin energy in bedrooms

Yin represents quiet, non-active spaces, like reading corners and sleeping zones. Yin characteristics include darker, muted colours, velvet fabrics, low-level furniture, symmetrical circles, rounded corners, and soft furnishings.

Yang energy in bedrooms

Yang represents functional spaces, like workstations and game rooms. Bright colours, extroverted patterns, angular furniture, geometric shapes, square corners, striking objects, and loud, metallic objects are synonymous with Yang.

There is no Yin without Yang and vice versa. For one to exist, the other must create one total energy.

How to apply Yin Yang bedroom Design

For interior designers, Yin-Yang is a crucial design philosophy because it builds harmony and balance in spaces. The seemingly contradictory forces work together to connect and give areas real cohesion. 

Applying Yin-Yang to bedrooms creates something of a quandary because, by definition, bedrooms are Yin spaces (places for sleep, so non-active). However, as we all know, the nature of bedrooms has changed. We use our bedrooms for much more than sleep, so Yin-Yang applies here as much as a living room or kitchen. Here are a few tips for applying Yin-Yang design to your bedroom

• Make your bed, Yin.

Your bed should have Yin energy, creating a quiet, comfortable space that's relaxing and positive. Dark, subdued colours and upholstery like crushed velvet, padded headboards, and plush bedding will give your bed Yin energy.

• Create a Yang accent wall.

Behind your bed, create a bright, opulent accent wall that compliments but contrasts with your bed. Choose lighter colours and exciting patterns, and hang a work of art or décor that gives off a sense of positivity and openness.

• Neutral walls

Other than your accent wall, the walls in your bedroom should be neutral to create a sense of rhythm and harmony. White, off-white, cream and light grey are good choices. Avoid dark or bright colours that stand out.

• Balance shapes

When you use circular shapes, balance them with square shapes. When you use triangles, balance them with circles. By balancing shapes in your bedroom, you create equilibrium, the state of rest or balance due to the equal action of opposing forces.

• Build-in symmetry

The Yin-Yang symbol itself is an example of rotational and inverted symmetry. Your bedroom should use symmetrical shapes, colours, lines, patterns, furniture, and objects wherever possible to create cohesion in your design. Choose furniture with clean lines and simple shapes. Avoid clutter and opt for pieces that serve multiple purposes. Use natural materials like wood and stone to create a sense of balance and harmony.

• Lighting

• Use natural and artificial light to create a calming and inviting atmosphere.
• Use dimmer switches to adjust the light level depending on your mood and needs.

• If in doubt, go monotone.

A black-and-white colour scheme is as Yin-Yang as it gets. The Yin-Yang symbol is black and white, so what is a more straightforward way to apply it to your bedroom? Make your feature wall black and your bed white, and pepper in other white and black elements to create balance.

Use a balanced colour scheme of black and white, with pops of other colours to represent the yin and yang aspects. For example, you could use black and white for the walls and furniture and then add pops of red (for yang energy) or blue (for yin energy) with throw pillows, artwork, or accessories.

Here are some additional tips for creating a Yin Yang bedroom:

• Use calming scents like lavender or sandalwood to promote relaxation.
• Create a designated meditation or relaxation space.
• Keep the bedroom clutter-free to create a sense of peace and tranquillity.

By following these tips, you can create a Yin Yang bedroom that is both stylish and functional and that will help you to relax and recharge.

Related pages

• 5 Tips On How To Create A Comfortable Bedroom Space
• Feng Shui Bedroom Rules Uncovered, Why the Bed Can't Face the Door