Zen is made for engineers who value simplicity. Its muted palette and understated syntax create an environment that feels clear and unobtrusive.
- Refined tones: Neutral foundations with careful accents reduce visual strain.
- Quiet syntax: Structure is shown through gentle shifts in tone, without relying heavily on colour.
- Minimal impression: A restrained approach avoids noise and complexity.
- Seamless modes: Consistent contrast ensures smooth transitions between light and dark themes.
- Complete coverage: Every Zed feature is styled without gaps or omissions.
- Open Zed.
- Press
Cmd+Shift+P
(macOS) orCtrl+Shift+P
(Linux). - Type "Extensions" and select "zed: extensions".
- Search for "Zen" and click "Install".
- Select "Zen Dark" or "Zen Light" from the theme picker.
- Download
zen.json
from the latest release. - Copy to your Zed themes directory:
- macOS:
~/.config/zed/themes/
- Linux:
~/.config/zed/themes/
- macOS:
- Restart Zed and select the theme from the theme picker.
The following configuration is one that I personally choose to complement Zen (as seen in the above previews):
{
"ui_font_size": 14,
"ui_font_weight": 400,
"ui_font_family": "SF Pro",
"buffer_font_size": 12,
"buffer_font_weight": 400,
"buffer_font_family": "Geist Mono",
"buffer_line_height": { "custom": 2.5 },
"title_bar": { "show_branch_icon": true },
"tabs": { "close_position": "left" },
"project_panel": { "git_status": false },
"scroll_beyond_last_line": "off",
}