Style Spotlight: Minimalism

Light, space, clean lines, and minimal distractions make Minimalism attractive in an otherwise complicated world.

Amanda Scott

What if there was a design style that would never go out of fashion? One in which your space could always be accommodating, classic, and harmonious. This style exists in Minimalism.

Minimalism in home design originated in the 1920s, but it is one that has never gone out of fashion. As a design style, Minimalism is very forward-thinking and classic because it doesn’t depend on current trends. The basic guidelines are simple: each item must have a function.

Ornamentation plays a less important role in Minimalism, as it generally has no function, but lighting, furnishings, and the space around them are all equally important. Perhaps that is what sets Minimalism apart more than anything: what’s not there is as important as what is.

Kitchen

Appliances are tucked neatly away, counters are swept clean of clutter, even cabinetry is free of adornment. This is a minimalist kitchen. But don’t be fooled, everything you need is within reach.

Clean lines and edges are trademarks of Minimalist Decor.

Appliances blend easily with panel-ready fronts. If those aren’t your style, try sleek stainless appliances in traditional grey or black.

Cabinet fronts maintain their smooth faces with pulls that don’t detract from their simplistic nature.

Rectangular marble tile, white oak hardwood flooring, hexagon marble tile.

Flooring is neutral in color and smooth in texture. Marble, tile, or wood-look is perfect for this decor style.

Various styles of lighting. Gold, black, bronze and brass finishes.

Remember that although lighting is there to serve its purpose and not to accessorize, this is the one area you may want to show a bit of creativity with a unique shape or unusual fixture.

Add texture and color in the kitchen with a houseplant, flower arrangement, or backsplash.

Bathroom

This will not be a bathroom with a counter full of clutter. It needn’t be boring, but fluidity is key: one feature in particular shouldn’t stand out.

Modern chrome faucet, white floating vanity and black modern pendant light.

Modern fixtures are perfect for Minimalist style.

Consider a vessel sink or floating vanity for their clean lines. Choose a modern faucet for its smooth feel and look. Accompany this with a round vanity mirror and consider a single pendant to light this space.

Wall hung toilet, wood flooring. Modern bathroom, wall mounted toilet.

This is the perfect design style for a wall-mounted toilet. There is no clunky tank (it is hidden behind a panel), rounded bowl, or pedestal; it simply floats against the wall.

Modern tub filler, freestanding rectangular bathtub, wood walls, chair.

Choose a freestanding tub to complete the look, with a sleek tub filler or wall-mounted faucet to finish the space.

Wood and iron bench, Black and gray rug, Wood chair with white upholstery.

Add a bench or chair in a neutral shade and an area rug for texture. Use a bit of color here, but don’t stray too far from your palette.

Living Areas

Minimalism might seem like an easier decor style to handle—afterall, there is less to do, right? Not really. This style demands more forethought and paring down. You must decide which objects are most important, essential to the design of your space. The result is a living space with carefully-curated objects.

Furniture

Modern tan couch with wire legs. slim black coffee table. Tv console.

Contemporary furnishings in a neutral color palette work well in this style.

When deciding on the furnishings for your living area, consider the form of each piece to establish a flow throughout the room. Basic shapes and flat surfaces should be your guide. Mid-century modern pieces are well-suited to this style, as are many modern furnishings.

Lighting

White and brass single pendant. Modern linear chandelier.

Lighting should be functional above all else, but don't be afraid to add a bit of personality here.

To illuminate your space, consider modern sconces and chandeliers in linear styles. Pendants with neutral shades also work well. Remember to light the areas that need it most, as the lighting should above all else serve to function.

Decor

Cream and gray rug, pouf, black leather chair, house plant.

Decor should be kept to a minimum and should serve a purpose if possible.

After all essentials are met, consider adding texture with functional objects like window treatments, cozy throw rugs, and houseplants. Remember that even decorative pieces serve a purpose in this design style.

One of the best things about Minimalism is that the smallest touches can bring major elements of warmth to a space. When designing with Minimalism in mind, keep in mind what makes it so attractive: light, space, clean lines, and minimal distraction.

Quick Tips for Minimalist Decorating

Little succulent plants in white containers.

Tips to curate a Minimalist space in your home:

Clear your clutter. Do you really need that jar full of bottle caps? Donate anything you have duplicates of or haven’t used in a year.
Don’t try to fill every space. Neutral space can be just as inviting as decor.
Purchase quality items. Don’t go for the trend of the season, instead choose timeless pieces.
Allow natural light to enter your space everywhere you can.
Houseplants and small succulents add texture and life to a room without adding complexity. They make the design feel natural.
Emphasize clean lines and flat surfaces.
When venturing to use colors outside of neutrals, stick with primary hues in their purest shades. Use modestly.