Define Your Minimalist Style

We take a look at three styles of minimalism from three regions.

The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines minimalism as “a style or technique (as in music, literature, or design) that is characterised by extreme spareness and simplicity.” Note that the word ‘extreme’ may translate to different things to different people, especially when it comes to designing a home. Because of its extreme simplicity, minimalism tends to highlight the architectural shell of a space. But the design of the home has everything to do with how we live inside the space, which places equal importance to both the architectural shell and the content of the space. Hence, design scenes around the world have their own unique take on minimalism at home. Here, we take a look at minimalist styles from three regions, how they differ and overlap, and how you can recreate them in your own home.

SCANDINAVIAN MINIMALISM

First off, let’s get this out of the way: not all Scandi-style interiors are minimalist interiors, although the two share many common traits. Hygge, the Danish loanword that now has an established placed in the international design lexicon, which means cosiness that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being, is one of the key objective of Scandinavian design, which, when paired with minimalism, has resulted in a chic and cosy minimalist look, simple but not cold. Thus, Scandinavian style has sort of become a shorthand for creating a softer minimalist look.

HOW TO GET THE LOOK

ADD SOFT CURVES

Softly curving elements in furniture lends warmth to an otherwise stark minimalist room. Keep these curving elements free from ornaments or patterns to keep the whole look pared down.

USE NEUTRAL COLOUR PALETTES