What is the first thing you think of when you hear the word Minimalism? Probably, living with very little right?

Well, that’s partly true but not all that makes up Minimalism. The great thing about Minimalism is it can be applied to anything from art and lifestyle to architecture and interior design.

Where does Minimalism come from?

The Minimalist interior design is based on the minimalist art movement, focusing on creating harmony through symmetry and open spaces. Starting in the late 1950s throughout the 1960s. 

Are Contemporary, Modern and Minimalism the same?

The short answer is no, they are not the same thing. While all three share some characteristics, each is an individual style. 

Contemporary mixes a variety of designs together, including some aspects of Modern and Minimalist as well as Traditional. Nonetheless, it’s primarily defined by whatever the current trend is at the time. It has more flexibility in colour palette, décor and materials than Modern or Minimalism. Modern shares the same element of design over function, but Minimalism takes this rule further than Modern does. Modern includes more colour and materials than Minimalism.

What is a Minimalist Interior design?

Minimalist interior design involves using the bare essentials to create a simple and uncluttered space. It is characterised by simplicity, clean lines, and a monochromatic palette. The living space usually combines an open floor plan, lots of light, and functional furniture, and it focuses on the shape, colour and texture of just a few items.  

5 tips to follow to get this design look.

The first thing to note is the Minimalist design must be simple, clean and efficient.

1. Materials

Choose a variety of textures like linen, glass, timber and pottery. This design style is all about the combination of clean design and rich essentials.

2. Monochrome

Monochrome is very important in creating this style. Avoid the bright and bold colours and stick to the neutral colour palates like whites, beiges and greys. These monochromatic colour schemes give the Minimalist design a calm, attractive and interesting feel.

3. Open Space

In Minimalism there is plenty of open space. Avoid the desire to fill up all that space with items. Just because there is extra space, it does not mean you should fill it. Leave a shelf or two empty and the countertops free to breath.
The intention of Minimalism is to have an open and wide space to achieve a relaxing and calm environment.

4. Invest In Quality

Have you ever heard the saying, “I’m not rich enough to buy cheap?”              
If you want items to last the test of time you have to buy quality pieces. Quality over quantity really is the mantra for this interior design. Minimalism doesn’t mean cheap and poor, it means intentional and opulent.

5. A Furniture Showstopper

Find an item of furniture that speaks to you. Something that you love looking at, an item that creates that elated feeling you have when you own something that truly brings you joy. Let that piece stand out in the room whether that’s a beautiful warm tone solid oak drawer or a black leather sofa.

As always, have fun and enjoy the process.

- Beechmount Furniture Team