Inspiration
6 basic tips for a minimalist look
In the broadest sense of the term, minimalism is the trend of cutting down to the bare essentials, getting rid of all superfluous elements – in other words, and as the term suggests, of using only the very minimum.
1. Less is more.
The key lies in creating spaces that are practically bare. In other words, applying the concept of ‘visual cleanliness’: if it has nothing to contribute, then there is no place for it. , Any element that messes up the overall panoramic vision has to go. Colours are also reduced to a minimum, thereby drawing attention to the lines of the actual space, as well as the use of light and materials.
2. Mixing materials.
The concepts of tone and shape still apply, yet mixing materials adds a sense of charisma and personality to our space. A trick that will also enable us to subtly mark out spaces without the need for any other types of decorative elements. For instance, two different types of floor tiles will effectively mark the transition from a dining and living space or the kitchen.
3. Forget about colour.
No colour should stand out from another; instead, the aim is to create a harmonious flow from tone to tone, free from any sharp contrasts. If we choose an eye-catching tone, it should be limited to a subtle pop of colour in a setting dominated by streamlined shades of white and ecru.
Our tip: go for two colours rather than just one. Use geometric forms to balance out their presence in the room; in other words, trace imaginary lines that create a sense of order and harmony. This will ensure that the minimalist look will be maintained.
4. Geometry comes first.
When choosing furniture it is important to remember that the easiest way of ensuring a minimalist look for your room is to use basic geometric shapes that will create a sense of rhythmic order in the space. Our tip: you can never go wrong with classic styles. Go for items such as an LC2, Ant or Diamond chair, an Arco lamp or a Chesterfield sofa, etc.
5. Be neutral.
When it comes to choosing home textiles or decorative objects such as pictures or vases, remember to keep the principles explained above in mind. In other words, less is more, go for neutral tones and geometry is everything. The idea is to ensure that those extra decorative items complement the streamlined spaces you have created. If you are looking for colour, then make sure the various tones match, but even more importantly, do not make the mistake of having one tone stand out from another, as this would transform the space.
Our tip: choose classic mono-tone prints by artists such as Rothko, Mondrian or Malevich – they always work.
6. Do we need everything we have included in our space?
It is back to rule one. Get rid of everything that could be considered superfluous. If the result is a visually clear area, then we have achieved our aim of creating a minimalist space.
