How to Master Minimalism

Characterised by clean lines, simplicity and a monochromatic colour palette; minimalism can create unrivalled spaces that exude serenity and tranquility. The ideology that less is more fuels this reductive style, however, achieving this look requires deliberate styling choices to ensure your space isn’t left feeling cold and unlived-in.

That Functional Feel

Minimalism and functionality go hand in hand, and it boils down to keeping a space uncluttered and open. This does not simply mean keeping workspaces clear and tidy, it can also mean taking advantage of white spaces, highlighting architectural features, and allowing accent furniture pieces to do the talking.

Open-plan living spaces and light, bright rooms are key when designing a minimalistic home. Even with a small inner-city apartment, it is imperative to create a fluid living space to create that functional feel. Choosing specific furniture that fits your space and allowing smaller areas to breathe is essential in minimalist design. This is where curved lines and natural shapes come in; avoiding large, block, more ‘traditional’ style furniture, will open up your space allowing for functionality alongside design.

Creating Depth

The biggest challenge faced when designing a minimalist space is creating an interior that is warm and welcoming. A monochromatic colour scheme can easily turn flat and uninteresting, however, combining a variety of tones, shades, shapes and textures is an easy fix. Incorporating a mix of cool and warm tones within your colour palette is essential to add dimension to your space; this can be done through warm wood tones, light linens or contemporary art pieces.

There has been a recent rise in combining minimalism with the ever-popular maximalist design. The blend of these two styles can add depth, colour and pattern to any space, and is such an exciting way to elevate your interiors with small simple touches. Take a look at my post The Return of Maximalism to dive further into this unique style.