Do more with less—this is the basic precept of the design concept of minimalism, and its use promises a more organized and less stressful life. This promise is probably the reason why the use of minimalism in home design has been gaining wide acceptance. After all, anyone will welcome the idea to come home to a stress-free home in a world laden with so many stressors.
Since its use in the 60’s to describe the works of sculptural artists Robert Morris and Donald Judd, minimalism has started to become popular in different fields such as fashion, architecture, music, and even lifestyle. In the area of home design, minimalism takes its inspiration from traditional Japanese design which is based on simple and natural forms.
Thus, the focus is the use of the barest and fewest elements according to need and necessity—spacious rooms with minimum furnishings, and with more attention given to details like color, texture, and shape. A minimalist design is perfect for people who value the simple yet sophisticated, beautiful and at the same time practical home.
So, whether you are a busy professional, a starter couple, or a student who has recently acquired your condo unit and would want to explore minimalism design ideas, here are some suggestions for you.
- Most Basic Rule—Declutter
Recent psychological studies revealed that clutter is stressful because it creates a chaotic mental space, and sends signals to the brain that there is a lot of work that you still need to do. Before you even move into your new condo unit, it will be good to go through everything you own and then decide which of these are necessities. While this may seem to be a very simple rule, you will be surprised at the number of things you have but do not actually need. Especially for a condo unit which usually has a smaller floor area, you will need to have a well-organized, clutter-free, and comfortable home. Bringing in a lot of items which you do not actually use or have a need for may force you into a situation where your home design is a mere accommodation of all the things you own rather than a layout you really like to have.
- Use Colors that are Calming
Light and neutral base colors like white, beige, or gray are fresh and will make your condo unit look wider. A cooler shade should be used for areas that have abundant natural lighting, while warmer shades are best for artificially lit parts of the condo.
- Brighten Up with Texture
You can enliven bland neutral colors by adding different textures but in a similar tone. Throw pillows, sheepskin rugs, visual wall elements are some examples of what you can add that will fit in with the neutral color tones. You can try playing with different textures but make sure that it will not look overwhelming.
- Light and Simple Furnishings
Minimalism is about the use of furnishings that are simple, light-colored, and made of natural materials like wood. Plus, it would probably be difficult to live in a condo with large bulky furnishings. In choosing furnishings, remember also that geometric shapes and plain designs or texture are important design elements in creating your minimalist condo unit. Also, go for quality instead of quantity when you decide which pieces will enter your unit.
- Store in Style
Stylish storage is a must for minimalist homes. This is where you put the items that you should inevitably keep but must still appear neat and tidy. Minimalism uses storage spaces that are cleverly creative and hidden yet still functional.
- Have a Focal Point
You can consider using an item that will serve as the center of attention in a room, which may be anything from an enticing sofa to a fancy rug. Modern minimalist patterns create effective looks by using a central point with the rest of other furnishings following horizontal and vertical lines. This way, the other items in the room appear as subtle complementing tones.
- Minimal Accessories and Decors
Minimalist homes keep decors to a minimum. You can choose decors that are bright and bold in color because they are small. Items similar in color or style or have the same use should be put together for that neat minimalist look. Windows should allow the light to come in and thinner curtains are more advisable. If you live in a condo unit where there is a magnificent view, it is best to keep the windows unadorned.
Empire East, a trusted leader in the real estate business, offers you choices of condo units from their wide array of projects in best locations. These are units that will make your desire to live in a minimalist home possible. With features and amenities for your relaxation and enjoyment just right outside your own unit, all you will need is a simple, minimalist home that is easy to maintain.
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This article originally appeared on Lamudi.
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