Take a look at your iPhone, the layout of the google home page, and the vast majority of design blogs. Or a selection of some of the most popular interiors on Pinterest right now. The one thing they all have in common is a simple, clean-lined design aesthetic.
Minimalism is back.
Because our lives have become so complicated and frenetic. And the world so uncertain. We want our homes to be simple and uncomplicated. And that is what minimalist design helps to give us.
What is minimalist design?
Minimalist style is also often described as simplicity or simple living.
There is some misconception that it entails living in a cold, stark – almost monastic – home. But that isn’t the case at all. Unless you want it to be 😉 .
You don’t have to live in a spartan, uncomfortable home or get rid of virtually all your possessions.
Minimalism is uncluttered simplicity. It’s about eliminating the things you don’t need to make space for the things you want.
It’s about living without clutter or an excess amount of stuff. And clever storage solutions so that there’s a proper place for all the possessions you do have.
It can be calm, relaxing, cosy, welcoming. And of course, it is easier to maintain.
You’ll discover greater pleasure for the things you have. They will be things that you truly love and use. And when you buy something new it will be well considered.
The philosophy allies itself to that famous quote by William Morris: “Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautful.”
The benefits of minimalism
If you’ve ever walked into an streamlined, organised space where you have felt there is room to breathe and think. You’ll appreciate one of the benefits of simple living.
Your home will feel calmer and more relaxed. And so will you.
It will give you a sense of freedom.
And because your home is easier to take care of, you’ll have more free time. So you can focus on what really matters to you. Be that your family, friends, traveling, hobbies or learning something new. Do the things you really want to do.
Do I have to live in a white box?
When you think of minimalism, the image that may come to mind is of an architecturally designed, sparsely furnished, all-white home. But that architectural look is just one style.
Practically any decorating style can be given a minimalist look. And some naturally led themselves to a simpler aesthetic, such as Mediterranean or Scandinavian design. And of course, Japanese design.
Your home doesn’t have to be all white either. The use of natural materials is very much a part of the return to simple living. And it will add warmth to your interiors.
You can have pattern and colour too. But the idea is to make a feature of it. Rather than to overwhelm your interiors.
In the words of the architect Mies van der Rohe: “Less is More.”
Because with less to worry about, you’ll be able to concentrate on the the more important things. And appreciate them more.
What do you think of minimalism? Does your home have a simple style – or would you like it to?
