“Minimalism is binding the space, while making it breathable. It is barer; though by no means, less designed. Uncluttered spaces are the need of the hour. Minimalism seems like a natural fit.”, said Heny Savla, Interior Designer, Livspace.
The minimalist decorating style is an exercise in restraint, where space, lighting and objects play equally important roles. This style demands you to pare down your furnishings to the bare essentials so that you’re left with a set of curated objects that deliver maximum impact. Far from being boring, this style is bold, functional and highly memorable.
Take a look around your home. Look at all the furniture in each room carefully. Turn your head to the portraits hanging on the wall and the objects that sit on your tabletops. Does everything need to be there? Or can you do away with some of them? Minimalism is all about subtracting unnecessary frills and the things from your decor and keeping things simple. And a lot of homes are turning to minimalist decor as a refreshing way of neat, organised and clutter-free living.
Not sure how to work a minimalist lifestyle into your home design? With a little creativity—and regular home decluttering—you can have the ultimate minimalist home that’s both inviting and practical! Check out these design ideas and tips for creating a cozy minimalist space.
Maybe you've long had visions of coming home from a busy day of work and relaxing in your minimalist home, but just don't know where to begin when it comes to achieving this goal. Perhaps you feel like it's simply too late to become a minimalist—after all, what will you do with all of your stuff?
Well, think again: designers prove that it is more than possible to slowly but surely embrace a minimalist design aesthetic, and lucky for us, provided eight actionable steps to incorporate a bit of simplicity into their homes.
Keep the following tried and true design tactics in mind, and you'll most definitely be able to live more like a minimalist. Cut the excess for good.
1. Select Furniture Pieces That Serve Double Duty
Minimalist homes certainly aren't packed with furniture, and pieces that do make the cut will therefore need to be ultra-utilitarian.
"Furniture pieces that have hidden storage and are multi-purpose are the key to a minimalist home," designer Lindye Galloway explains. "These types of pieces allow for less bulk to be in the space and properly hide any additional items or clutter."
Ottomans with lidded storage make for excellent seating options when guests stop by while also serving as side tables or footrests. Meanwhile, items such as throw blankets can easily be tossed inside for safekeeping. Galloway also appreciates console tables that can easily turn into desks.
Designer Joshua Smith is also a proponent of such furniture pieces. "Leaving negative space for the eyes to rest means the mind can rest as well," he says. "These are pieces such as baskets or wicker chests with lids, which add a touch of texture while concealing the clutter."
2. Include Green Friends and Natural Elements
Plants are more than welcome in minimalist spaces, so if you can't live without your green friends, don't worry—they will shine in your new, pared-down home.
"Plants are an easy way to accessorize a room without adding more décor or furniture that could take away from the minimalist impact," Galloway notes.
Smith expresses similar views. "Natural elements are always a must in my more minimalist designs that may involve natural woods or large crystals," he says. "They add beauty while raising the vibe of the space."
