Minimalism is meant to create an uncluttered sense of freedom, yet it often feels more overwhelming than remaining in a cosy mess of maximalism. Before you throw in the proverbial towel, take a breath and let us be your spirit guide to stylish minimalism, easily adapted to a variety of lifestyles.
Simplicity
Simplicity is the easiest way to move closer to your goal of minimalism while saving your hard-earned money. When you’ve found your investment pieces and considered what sort of functionality you need, make sure to be decisive and keep all considerations and options in mind as you undress and then upgrade your space.
Tip: Simplicity in design and decorating is a way of saying more with less and leaving the detail to an interesting trim or statement piece elsewhere. By keeping the basis of your space simple, you’ll find more joy in how the layers are able to change or evolve over time.
Warm Tones and Texture
If you still think minimalism means a space devoid of warmth, texture, and colour.,think again! Far from the cold, blank canvas typically seen in sleek catalogues, there exists an infinite dimension of colour, texture and taste – all within the same set of basic minimalist ‘rules’. Don’t be afraid of darker wood and more textured pieces. Minimalism is a lifestyle, not a colour.
Tip: A striking feature wall or tonal tints of a muted palette on a few walls can add dimension and interest without being overwhelming. Steer clear of very bright colours to keep the openness and balance in your home.
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Artwork and collections
If you’ve been dying to embrace ‘less is more’, but don’t understand what this means for your beloved collections, art and heirlooms – take a deep breath. Minimalism is not rooted in one, inflexible way of living. Your space should still be an ode to your lifestyle, tastes and quirks. Make it your own while maintaining a keen sense of practicality by picking your favourite pieces and finding beautiful, uncluttered ways to honour and display them. And if Grandma’s rocking chair sticks out like a sore thumb, a touch of paint or varnish may be the perfect compromise.
Tip: Remember that ultimately, your furniture or lights could be enough of a statement on their own. If you’ve opted for striking light designs, reduce the visual clutter of other objects nearby.
Concealed Storage
While neutralising visual clutter is a dream and the goal for many, the reality is that people have, and need certain things, especially families with a range of interests and professions. It’s impractical to imagine that everything we own can be useful all at once. Concealed storage is the ever-loyal, clever and stylish friend that hides clutter and seasonal pieces all while allowing you to curate a space that is comfortable, stylish, relaxed and productive.
Tip: Invest in a few practical, inexpensive tubs to stow away supplies, seasonal clothing and dry pantry goods in your existing cabinets and closets. Save the stylish, concealed storage for the stuff you need to reach more often in every room and keep everything you own well-organised, concealed should never become the excuse for clutter.
Writer: Stefanie Titus
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All images: Unsplash
