What Is Minimalist Decor?

Minimalist decor has become increasingly popular in recent years, especially as Scandinavian-inspired design concepts have come to the fore. The concept of minimalism is quite simple. It simply means stripping away all of the unnecessary things that you don’t need to leave something in its most basic, simple, minimal state. Minimalism as a concept has been applied to everything from lifestyles to art, and also to interior decor. 

When it comes to minimalism in interior design, the goal is typically to maximize the use of the space to create an uncluttered, functional design. Characterized by crisp, clean lines, mono color schemes and a focus on simplicity, minimalist decor is sophisticated, elegant and oozes class. Picture an all-white bedroom with a raised mattress, an elegant bedside table, clothes rail, a small rug, sheer curtains, timber floor, and not much else. This is minimalist decor. 

Let’s take a look at some of the elements that are commonly associated with minimalist decor.

Focusing Only On The Essentials

By its very nature, minimalism is a “bare essentials” concept. When it comes to interior design, this means decluttering your space, getting rid of what you don’t need and designing your home around what is left. Minimalism focuses on quality, not quantity. It focuses on highlighting what is special rather than focusing on filling out your space with unnecessary clutter. 

Crisp, Clean, Simple Lines

Minimalist design takes a simple approach to objects, furniture, and fixtures included in the decor, often stripping them back to their most rudimentary geometric state. Furniture adorned with flourishes and flash does not fit with the minimalist design concept. Instead bold, strong, smooth lines are used throughout the design to highlight the importance of what is actually important. 

Using A Mono Color Scheme

A monochrome color scheme involves focusing the design on one primary color and shades of that same color. This is a common trait in minimalist decor, however, it is also common to add contrast to the monochrome base with simple, well-appointed ornaments, artwork, or feature pieces of furniture. Evident in many examples of minimalist interior design projects, creating contrast in this way is a popular approach. 

Embracing Natural Elements

Many minimalist interior designs focus on allowing as much natural light to flood into the space as possible, making the home feel brighter and bigger. Houseplants are also common in minimalist designs, helping to improve air quality and make the rooms more tranquil and relaxing. These types of design often include a lot of natural timber throughout the design in the flooring, ceiling, furniture and in various other areas of the home. Incorporating more natural elements is often associated with minimalist decor. 

Creating More Open Space

Regardless of how big or small your home is, it’s important to remember that the true nature of minimalist design is just that; minimalist. Fight the urge to fill out the space with furniture. Although you might have a lot of space to fill, when it comes to minimalist decor, you need to learn to embrace the space. Opting for a minimalist decor means making changes to allow for more open space in your home to create a more spacious, open feel to your interior. 

Try Taking A Minimalist Approach To Your Interior Decor

If you are giving your home’s interior a makeover, why not try implementing some of the key elements of minimalist design we discussed above. Whether you want to commit fully to the minimalist decor concept or borrow bits and pieces from it to add to your home’s interior style, there is a lot to be gained from embracing minimalist decor. For a clean, sleek, modern finish to your home’s interior choose more, by choosing less with a minimalist approach to your interior redesign.

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Emma

Emma covers dating and relationships for Unfinished Man, bringing a witty woman's perspective to her writing. She empowers independent women to pursue fulfillment in life and love. Emma draws on her adventures in modern romance and passion for self-improvement to deliver relatable advice.

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