The Japanese have an aesthetic known as shibui, which is characterized by simple and subtle beauty. You can apply the philosophy of shibui to your garden to create a tranquil space that’s the perfect place to escape from the world.

Here are some tips for applying shibui to create your own tranquil garden:

• Don’t crowd your garden. Leaving some wide open spaces creates a relaxing atmosphere.
• Plant flowers sparingly. An abundance of green foliage with a variety of textures is more restful than the vibrant colors of blossoms.
• Add sculpture, a water feature or other pieces of art to complete your retreat.

Read more shibui suggestions on the Sunset magazine website.