Minimalism is more than an interior design style – it is a lifestyle and a philosophy! Based on the ideology of ‘less is more’, a minimalist space craves nothing more than basic necessities. Uncluttered spaces, ultra-clean and crisp lines, simplicity in design, monochromatic hues, simple furniture, and absence of flamboyancy well define a minimalist interior design style!

Well, theories apart, I am going to ask you a few questions that will help you in determining if you are a minimalist or not!

Are you a Minimalist?

Minimalist Interior Design Style

Do you like uncluttered spaces? Do you like to reduce down your possessions into just basic necessities? Or if you like minimal belongings that exactly speak functionality and the reason why they should be put into use? Is simplicity the mantra of your life?

Well, if most of them are true – it is quite likely that you’re a Minimalist!

Heard of Marie Kondo?

The concept of minimalist interior design style reminds me of Marie Kondo’s principles. Well, I am sure you must be knowing her since you’re reading about minimalism, but if not – do check out her website and the book where she describes how to tidy up your spaces and attain utmost minimalism in life!

If you don’t like to read books, don’t worry! She has a series called “Tidying Up with Marie Kondo” on Netflix! So, yay – do watch it!

I have read her book “life-changing magic” and have absolutely loved it!

So, let’s talk a little about the design style and how we can incorporate it into our homes!

Minimalist Interior Design Style: Color Palette

Minimalism directly hits me with a monochromatic color scheme!

Yes, so minimalist interior design style is all about using neutral hues like whites, off-whites, beiges, greys, and greiges.

Don’t forget to check out the color palettes I created for this design style here.

So, the minimalist design definitely negates the use of ultra-fancy and bold colors that shine too bright in the eye!

Instead, it aims for pastels and pale shades that are calm and soothing are definitely not loud. You need to be able to relax in these soft and calm, warm and cool nude tones!

Remember, hues like bright reds and yellows are definitely a no-no!

Minimalist Interior Design Style: Planning

The main concept behind minimalism is the idea of making a space look light, airy, warm, and welcoming. And strategic planning has a lot to do with it!

While placing accessories and furniture, you need to make sure that circulation and scale are primary.

Give yourself and your furniture enough room to BREATHE and relax!

So, for example – don’t stick up the couch against the wall and rather maintain a distance of 2-3 feet between them.

Don’t just fill up spaces and keep the ones that you’re actually going to use. Also, if possible, follow an open space plan and avoid too many walls in your homes.

Remember, open space (horizontally and vertically) is the key to minimalist interior design style.

Minimalist Interior Design Style: Furniture

You have got to play carefully when it comes to furniture shopping! Think light, airy, soft, and neutral-toned furniture.

Look for beige, off-whites, and light grey sofas with soft cotton fabrics and tufted upholstery!

Leather sofas are a no-no! You could still use velvet ones as far as they devoid embroideries and follow simple minimal rules.

Minimal furniture doesn’t have to touch-down the floor! (because they look quite bold and heavy that away) so, simply pick the ones where the legs are visible, and the bases are raised.

Smooth surfaces with clean-lined furniture pieces are what needs to be considered.

Sometimes, to create an accent, I like to add tinge of gold and metals to refine the minimalist look!

Minimalist Interior Design Style: Accessories

Photo by Erin Roberts Design

Do we even need accessories in a minimalist space?

Well, of course, you can have them as far as they are bare essentials. There is no excessive ornamentation or forms and embroideries in this design style.

Instead, you could play these accessories as ‘accents’ for your space. One large piece of artwork in the living room is probably worth a few other accessories all placed together. Or let’s say, a beautiful piece of floor lamp is all that speaks your personality.

Use contrasting rugs with patterns to add depth to your space. Sheepskins and rags should work for your space!

However, there should be a sense of harmony in your minimalist space. Don’t try to over-clutter it rather try to decorate your basic antiques on display!

Minimalist Interior Design Style: Materials

Photo by BBH Design Studio

Every minimalist space deserves a contrast of materials in single or multi hue backdrop! Don’t hold back while using fur, faux, cotton, linen, canvas, timber, and extra patterns and graphics.

I personally LOVE the use of seamless exposed polished concrete, lush hardwood floor and wall panels, oak, and simple neutral wall paints.

Glass is another interior material I like to play with. To ensure an airier and open space, glass further helps in adding a sense of interest in rooms.

You could use glass in the form of coffee tables, end tables, and partitions to create a much lighter look.

For the window treatments, you always want to choose minimal and sophisticated neutral sheer curtains for a timeless appearance.

Make sure to hang them up at the ceiling up to the floor! This is also a design trick to make your space look taller and larger.

So, What’s the Takeaway?

Minimalism is not to be inculcated in a day – instead, it should be a daily habit and a lifestyle. You can definitely decorate your space in the minimalist design style but that needs to be a long-term commitment! Decluttering and organization are two cousins of minimalism. Opposing the bohemian design style, minimalism clearly makes use of the items you GENUINELY need in your home. So, don’t shy away!

Declutter your homes, buy what is necessary, and adore your home like you never have! And if you have any questions or doubts, do let me know in the comments below or check out my interior decoration packages where we can get one-on-one to discuss your spaces and make them just like you WANT!

 

 

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