Minimalist interior design become more and more trendy. We like them for bright and clear space, lacking clutter. Such design is esthetic, toned, and minimalist in form, a perfect choice for those in favour of contemporary trends, space and simplicity.
Minimalistic style reduces to minimum the number of furniture, accessories and other elements of the interior, needed to arrange home or commercial areas. The colours and forms are limited, giving the overall impression of being modern and simple. It is based on uncomplicated shapes, soft colours and limited number of other objects. When applying decors, one should remember they need to be of geometric style, clearly defined, and as a rule purposeful. The minimalist style has its origin in Japan some fifty years ago, and it is based on the Zen philosophy. According to Zen, minimalist interiors should be organized in line with the function of the room. So, in case of a living room or a bedroom, their main function is to allow rest, and in case of an office, it is to serve as a working place. In this kind of arrangements, one should avoid clutter and mixing styles and contrastive colours. The general rule is ‘ the less the better’ and following this, each additional element disturbs the balance. The minimalistic style is chilly, with reduced furnishings, homogenic in forms and colours. Such interiors lack decorations, accessories, photo frames, blankets and net curtains i.e. elements that create a warm, family atmosphere at home.
What colours can we apply in this kind of interiors? Paradoxically white is not the only colour. However we should bear in mind that toned, homogenic colours are preferred. We can choose light or pastel colours or more distinct ones such as red or yellow. We can use patterns on the walls, if in line with the minimalistic style. In such interiors ceilings are usually white, floors covered with batten or wood, in dark or natural colours, tiles are plain with no decors. In minimalistic rooms, we do not use carpets on the floor, except small rugs. However these should also be limited, not to overload or destroy the carefully prepared design. It is important to remember that the whole design is based on moderation and good style.
Speaking about colours of the walls, one should remember to maintain contrast of the colours of the furniture and the walls, to avoid blending. If the wall is of a more intensive colour, the piece of furniture being background should be softer. And on the contrary, if the colour of the wall is delicate and natural, furniture in more distinct colours should be applied.
Furniture in the minimalistic interior should simple in form and structure. Textiles rich in decors and colours are not appropriate. Furniture made of natural wood and simple in form plastic are used. It is up to the architect’s creative idea. A great solution used in this type of interior is module furniture, which can be freely combined and rearranged to meet our expectations. It is good to remember, that in such rooms, a piece of furniture is a decoration on its own, and keep it in mind when shopping for key elements of our interior.
Minimalism does not like chandeliers but loves geometric forms. So, when making decision about the new lighting, let us concentrate on simplicity, soft colours and suitable shapes. A standard, floor lamp providing discreet, delicate and cosy light is more useful than a pendant lamp.
As aforesaid, minimalistic style does not tolerate ornaments. So, if we are keen on small decorations, photo frames and soft bedspreads – this is not a style suitable for us. They are all considered redundant for disturbing balance in the room and having no particular function. For this reason, such interiors are easier to maintain in order and healthier, due to less unnecessary and harmful dust on the surface.
So, if you are a fan of simplicity and finesse and do not like accumulation of objects in a room, this style is ideal for you. Thanks to such arrangements, you will stay in peace, harmony as well as maintain order in the space around you. This style is ideal for modern people, who do not want to feel overwhelmed by the excess of decorative materials, sophisticated patterns of textiles and furniture rich or diverse in form. This is a simple but smart style, that supports both work and rest.