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The minimalist aesthetic continues to be a popular choice among homeowners due to its simplicity and clutter-free look. There are also those who believe that “less is more” when it comes to decorating one’s space, and as such see minimalist designs as the perfect solution. However, a common worry about minimalist design is that it may end up looking boring and devoid of character.
So, how do you achieve that clean minimalist look while still letting your personal style shine through? The following design tips will help you get the best of both worlds.
Choose elements that brighten your space
Minimalism is often associated with neutral and muted tones, which can be pleasing to the eye but also prone to looking flat or even uninspired. To avoid this, choose elements that can add a touch of brightness to a space. For example, white tiles or light-coloured hardwood can make a room appear brighter.
To prevent whites, greys, and browns from looking monotonous, you can pick other colours as accents. For example, yellow lighting can add warmth to an area, while accessories with cool colours can provide subtle contrast to warmer neutrals.
Don’t be afraid to accessorise
The terms “accessories” and “minimalism” may not seem like they go together, but accessorising wisely can actually spruce up your minimalist design.
Obviously, you don’t have to fill your home with knick-knacks, because that will defeat the purpose of wanting a clutter-free space. That being said, your home doesn’t have to be bare either. The trick is to maximise your use of free space with designs that are striking enough without looking too busy.
For example, you can hang some typography posters on a blank spot on your wall. The lines, curves, and basic shapes of these pieces of wall art may be simple, but they can also be visually striking in the right combinations. You could also use flower vases or even textiles draped over furniture to enhance your home without overpowering the minimal vibe.
Maximise use of shape and texture
Playing with shapes and textures can be a fun way to add more character to a minimalist space. For example, a fluffy wool rug can be a great visual contrast to your smooth hardwood floor. Other textures you may want to experiment with include woven material, wicker, velvet, and corduroy.
Likewise, using shapes – whether in contrast with each other or as patterns – can add another focal point to your home. Angled shapes such as triangles can make a room feel energising, while curved shapes such as circles can have a calming effect. Just be careful not to overdo it as too many shapes and patterns can overwhelm the eyes.
Add plants to your rooms
Plants can lend a softer, more natural touch to your minimalist space, so don’t be afraid to use greenery as part of your home design.
Flowers, succulents, or even hanging houseplants can add more character to your home and keep it from looking lifeless. This “back to nature” feel also provides a touch of warmth which can offset the rigidity that some minimalist designs tend to give off. Plants are also a great way to add shape and texture to your living space. Common indoor plants include philodendron, spider plant, jade plant, rubber plant, and pothos.
Experiment with scale
Different sizes of fixtures or decorations can also prove to be eye-catching when implemented in a minimalist space.
Contrasting size or highlighting the progression of it – such as in a set of nesting dolls, just to give one example – draws the eyes of anyone entering the room and can even prove to be an interesting conversation piece.
Choose pieces that feel personal
Minimalism is mostly concerned with getting rid of clutter to showcase only choice pieces. This means you need to make sure that the pieces you do choose are ones that are close to your heart.
Select items that either spark joy in you, or suit your visual taste the most. That way, even if there aren’t many elements in your space, you will be surrounded by things that truly appeal to you.
Blend various styles
At the end of the day, you don’t have to stick to a purely minimalist style. Instead, you can combine it with other design inspirations to create a whole new look that suits your tastes.
For instance, you can keep most of your furniture in a simplistic style while using an ornate centrepiece. You may even find the unique look you create to be more reflective of your personal style.
The minimalist style doesn’t have to mean basic to the point of being boring. With the design tips above, you can breathe new life into your minimalist home and enhance what you love about the style while keeping it uniquely yours.
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