Minimalism as a concept is fast growing – be it as a lifestyle, or a design style. Absolutely respecting the principle ‘less is more’, minimalist interior design is all about simplicity and effortless elegance. An easy, simple design representing freedom and creativity that enriches your life is the underlying principle of the minimalist modern interior design styles.
So how is minimalist interior design different from minimalist modern interior design? Since the former is purely functional and has a monochromatic tone, it may seem uninviting and cold to some; while the latter attempts to bring in warmth and life by introducing a pop of color here and there every now and then.
Architectural elements to complement your design
Large windows maximising openings are one of the prominent features of this interior design style. When possible, opt for high ceilings, and also optimise your windows to the maximum. Minimalist design style is a great way to make smaller spaces appear larger.
Planning
Minimalist modern is all about enjoying the space available rather than filling it up with material items. Clutter-free open planning, minimalist modern design style emphasizes on enhancing open spaces and focuses on the bare minimum essentials maintaining a sense of calm. While following this principle, this design style also balances the aesthetics involved without any compromise. With this outlook, the style evidently gives any ornamentation or patterns a miss.
Characteristics of a minimalistic modern living room
Minimalist modern living room furniture often include clean, plain furniture that highlight the simplicity of the space. Letting in lots of natural light making the space bright and airy, these rooms are characterized by a monochromatic palette of white and beige. Clear table tops and other surfaces are an important aspect while maintaining this design style. Accent pieces are also kept to a minimal – usually a single piece of art of the wall, or an elegant vase as a centrepiece on the table.
Warming up your design space
The bare, simple lines of the monochromatic palette may seem to make any place colder than it is intended. Warming up your minimalistic space is not as daunting a challenge as seems, all you need is a little variety of textures and shades.
Soft woollen fabrics for your floor rugs and cushions and couch throws can add that soothing touch that you may crave. Some simple graphic patterns may add a bit of visual interest, while introducing wooden elements in soft shades can balance out the stark look of the space. Drapery is yet another great choice to bring in some life into the design making it a haven of warmth and comfort.
Introducing some special elements
When it comes to introducing some distinct elements in a minimalist modern living room, mirrors are an exceptional choice. Along with reflecting natural light coming in through the large openings making the space even more brighter, mirrors can change the complete perspective of any space. Accentuate a wall with a highlighting mirror, or a composition of smaller ones. However, ensure that these mirrors do not dominate the space.
Making the right choices
With just the essentials making an appearance in a minimalist modern living room, it is important to invest in only the best. Quality furniture is your best choice to fit the budget as there are no inessential pieces coming into picture. With the rich look this design exhibits, inferior or low-quality materials are an absolute no-no!
Bringing in some greenery
A proven way to usher in life and vibrancy to any design style, this minimalist modern style is no exception to the rule – bring in some lush greenery! Adding the required pop of color to add the cozy inviting warmth to a rather stark cold interior color scheme, plants can change the look and feel of any space. Adorn a befitting corner with a small indoor plant, and your living room is ready to flaunt the minimalist modern design style.
FAQ
- What are the differences between minimalism and modernism?
Firstly, modern design style emerged in the late 19th and early 20th century, while the minimalist design style started early 20th century, around 1920s. Minimalist modern interior design adopts styles from both to prioritize elegance and simplicity. Modern design style uses the principle form follows function, while minimalism creates forms with functions removed to be the most simplistic versions.
- How do minimalism and modernism unite to form minimalist modern interior design?
Minimalist and modern design styles, both, have clean lines, neutral monochromatic palette and blend with each other smoother than any other 2 styles. While minimalist design style allows only the essentials, modern design gets in the necessary functionality along with bringing in vibrancy to the space with the use of some colors. In recent times, a combination of these two design styles are often seen used together.
- Will this style go out of style?
The style is timeless and will never go out of style. With elegance and the well-thought design choice, every piece of furniture is innate and intrinsic to completing the space. All it needs is the patience to do it right!
