Minimalism
Why this simple styling trend took over interior design
Why this simple styling trend took over interior design
Simplistic and uncluttered, clean, and monochromatic. Minimalism has influenced interior design since making its mark in the ’90s. There is beauty in the simplicity of the minimalist decor, however, a keen eye is needed to create the right balance in a space. Where some people may see a cold, empty wall, a minimalist might see the sleek design and architecture of the home. Where some may think ‘boring,’ a minimalist thinks of functional and open spaces. Designing a minimalist space may seem easy due to the small amount of furniture and accessories seen, however, there is a lot more that goes into creating a beautiful and balanced minimalist space than meets the eye.
‘Uncluttered’ is a word you will hear a lot when researching minimalist decor. While ‘less is more’ is an important part of the trend, it’s just as – if not more – important to consider the items you choose to display. Choosing quality fixtures is a great way to bring a modern and artistic touch to your home. Contemporary gas fireplaces and subtle yet stunning lighting fixtures often get lost in other styling trends while minimalism turns them into feature pieces. Keep a strong eye on the detail of your home, small changes, like choosing modern and sleek light switch covers, can transform a minimalist home.
Continuing with our clutter-free decor; most rooms are filled with furniture, accessories, and the items that exist in our everyday lives. Minimalist decor is often mistaken for empty rooms when really, the focus is on functionality. This means taking a good long look at the items in your home. How often do you use each item? Can it be subtly stored away until you need it? A lounge, a coffee table, a plant, and maybe a light for reading. Reduce each room to its bones and work from there.
Once you have determined what is functionally needed in each room, you can start finding the right furniture. Choose furniture that reflects the bare-bones style you have created so far. Look for items with clean edges and classic but simple designs; surfaces should be smooth and strong. Patterns are not commonplace in minimalist decor so stick to block colours.
Minimalism is known for its monochrome pallets. White, black, and everything in between, complemented with natural wood. However, there is room for colour within the minimalist trend. Instead of focusing on a feature colour, find a feature item with a splash of bold colour. This could be a mustard lounge, a bold piece of art, or a patterned rug.
It sounds counterintuitive; adding more piece, more nick-nacks, to a room we have striped bare. Just like in any other trend, it’s the accessories that tie an entire room together. The small things that make your house feel like home have a place in minimalist styling. This is where a keen eye for design is needed. There is no hard and fast rule as to whether that chair needs a cushion or that frame is too colourful, these decisions can only be made while standing in a space, seeing the room as a whole.
Minimalism is a styling trend that took the world by storm. You can gain an infinite amount of inspiration from designers, studios, and even other people’s homes. At the end of the day you will be the one living in your home, so break the rules, use the art that you love, and get creative!