
Minimalism can conjure up images of white walls and bare rooms – homes that don’t look lived in, essentially. But that couldn’t be further from reality.
It’s about clean lines, using your space practically and focusing on quality over quantity. Minimalism isn’t just a design aesthetic, it’s a whole lifestyle.
If you feel like you could use some space and harmony in your home, here is a step-by-step process for achieving that with a minimalist interior.
Start by decluttering
Minimalism means only having items that serve a purpose to the room – even if that is only to add to the aesthetic.
The first port of call for anyone looking to adopt this style is to remove any unnecessary furniture and other belongings that have built up over the years.
You don’t have to throw everything out, just ensure you only hold onto things that bring you joy or mean a lot to you.
Optimise your storage
Once you know what you’ll be keeping, you can start thinking about how to store it. You won’t want to have everything on show because that defeats the point of minimalism.
Instead, you could seek inspiration for clever built-in storage ideas to incorporate into your room. You could turn an unused corner into a hidden place for dirty laundry or keep things hidden within some useful window seating.
The benefit of built-in storage is that it can be made bespoke to your space, ensuring it is fully optimised for a minimal aesthetic.
Invest in quality
It can be tempting to purchase a greater volume of cheaper items so you get the most for your money.
However, it can help you maintain your desired aesthetic for longer if you spend some time researching the brands you’re buying from. Look into the materials they use and the manufacturing process, as well as some information on the expected lifespan of the item.
While being this discerning will likely come at a price, it’ll save you from having to keep buying replacements that sacrifice the scheme of your room.
Neutral colours
Just to be clear: neutral doesn’t mean plain and boring. Beige can be particularly warming in the right environment, while pale green and brown can help lend a theme to a room that goes beyond minimalism.
Experiment with a splash of colour here and there too. It could be a maroon upholstered chair in the corner or a vibrant artwork on the wall. If it serves a purpose and isn’t competing with a host of other items, you can throw in any tones you like.
Embrace empty space
You don’t have to fill every inch of space if you ensure you optimise what you use and how you use it. Leaving space can help to maximise the effect of key parts of the room, amplifying the minimalist aesthetic.
Minimalism isn’t just defined by empty space and plain walls – it’s about being creative with space, colour shades and decorative objects. Focus on simplicity and functionality with a restrained colour pallet. Keep on top of clutter, choose furniture with clean lines and prioritise open space. Ultimately, embrace simplicity to create a serene and timeless minimal aesthetic for your home.