Simplicity, dynamics, rational use – modern minimalism in the interior has provided everything for a comfortable life. Let’s figure out how to stylize an apartment, and what to try to avoid, so as not to violate the ideal idea.

Minimalism (English minimalism from the Latin minimus – the smallest) is a direction in design that rejects the classical methods of design and decoration. It is based on laconic simplicity and precisely calibrated details – the foundations of constructivism and functionalism. In its purest form, minimalism involves the use of a neutral palette in natural or imitative materials.

Style features

The style of minimalism originated in Europe about 70 years ago and became a new round of evolution of design art. Pictorial idyllic motifs in design were eventually replaced by practical solutions, and then transformed into conciseness, simplicity and accuracy of forms.

Already by the name it is clear how the interior of the apartment in this style should look. But many people misunderstand the features of minimalism, believing that having a minimum of furniture in the apartment is already minimalism.

Basic characteristics of modern minimalism in the interior:

• The predominance of function over decorativeness and quantity.
  
• The severity of the lines and the simplicity of the forms.
  
• High cost – only materials of the best quality.

Individuality of the interior is given by textured elements: marble, porcelain stoneware, natural wood. Minimalism is devoid of luxurious items in the conventional sense, but it is the high quality of materials that makes it not only practical, but also a respectable style.

The decoration and furniture are characterized by neutral and muted shades, which, if desired, are complemented by bright accent strokes. Basic colors: white, black, gray, dark blue.

Many believe that minimalism is identical with asceticism. This is a fallacy. The design of the apartment in the style of minimalism is cozy, comfortable, beautiful in its own way.

The style of minimalism, like any other, has inherent individual characteristics that distinguish it, make it unique. These include:

• a small number of pieces of furniture;
  
• zoning;
  
• large windows;
  
• placement of cabinets in wall niches;
  
• multifunctionality of furniture;
  
• absence of patterns, other decorative elements.

In apartments, the interior with the simple name “Minimalism” implies careful modeling of the space. They increase window openings, remove unnecessary partitions, arrange additional openings. This is the severity of lines, the correctness of shapes, the ideality of proportions.

Conciseness and simple geometric shapes: flat surfaces without protruding elements – characterize minimalism as a practical rational style of the interior.

What is the popularity of minimalism?

Minimalism is ideal for busy people: surfaces do not require complex care, furniture is hidden, and its placement is safe and convenient. In the modern iteration, this style is suitable for the design of houses and apartments of any layout. And in the interior of small-sized apartments will be a real salvation.

There is still a love for functional built-in objects and smart lighting. And this is not all the reasons to use this style in the design of your apartment.

7 Reasons to Love Minimalism

1. Visually increases the space
Minimalism has gained great popularity in the interiors of small-sized apartments. Small rooms do not tolerate overload in both quantity and color mixing. The predominance of a restrained range, simple forms and natural lighting visually corrects the space.

2. Rationally uses the area
Limited footage does not allow the use of the area of the apartment “idle”. The project is calculated based on the purpose of the objects, it does not matter whether it is furniture or equipment. Functionality, which is at the head of the choice, allows you to get rid of the superfluous and provide a place for the important.

3. Universal for most
If you have not yet decided on the style, minimalism will remove most of the questions. The style will fit equally well into city apartments, private houses, cottages or commercial facilities.

4. Get rid of clutter and unnecessary items
Competent layout will hide household appliances and get rid of bulky furniture. The motto of minimalism is fewer things. It will be easier to restore order.

5. Recharge emotionally
The futuristic interior is devoid of background noise: excessive decor, complex and multifaceted details. It is comfortable to live in such a house, since extra “pictures” in the interior overload emotionally. The brain, without being distracted by visual noise, works more productively, concentrating on the main tasks.

6. Focus on what’s important
Combining conscious consumption, the rejection of excesses in favor of functionality, minimalism remains in the trend of design trends. In the world of environmental care, much attention is paid to the main thing – natural materials, their processing and the ability to abandon what you can do without. Minimalism does not welcome hoarding, because initially it plans to purchase only the necessary things.

7. Save money
The high cost of finishing materials is fully compensated by the number of interior items. Of course, the design of the apartment in the style of minimalism will cost a certain amount. And here you can not do with materials from the grandmother’s chest of drawers. But these are investments for years – the use of “2 in 1” equipment, transforming furniture – solves several problems at once.

In addition, the choice of materials is always alternative. In the modern reading, imitation is used. For example, parquet board will be replaced by laminate, and mirrored furniture will be replaced by products made of high-quality plastic.

An apartment in the style of minimalism is an example of order. The style does not tolerate chaos, so it is preferred by pedantic business people who appreciate the atmosphere of peace and perfect order in everything.

How to choose furniture in the style of minimalism?

Simple, but tasteful – furniture in a minimalist style – without patterns, massive backs and armrests, embossed legs. Monochrome colors are welcome, in accents: pillows, small floor carpets. Ordinary upholstered furniture for the interior in this style has strict rectangular shapes: these are small squat armchairs and sofas on high metal legs.

A minimum of furniture does not mean that you will have to give up the bookshelf, and store books in a wardrobe with clothes or work at the dinner table. The first thing you will have to take care of in small apartments is the number of necessary items. And their functionality is to unite. And this will help transforming models: a sofa table, a bed with a niche, a coffee table that folds out under the dining room.

With enough space, in order not to get away from the style and not to overload the room, choose built-in models with a hidden storage system.

The main requirement for furniture in minimalism is compactness. But at the same time, it should be roomy. But as for the materials – there are options.

• From natural wood, linden, pine, alder are preferable. The color palette is light, preserving the texture.
  
• Made of chrome steel – used as separate elements: legs, decorative inserts, countertops, rack frames.
  
• MDF – gives us excellent opportunities to choose both the color and texture for the design of the room. The surface can be both monochromatic and imitating natural materials with a complex color.
  
• Plastic is not in its conventional sense. In modern minimalist interiors – exclusively acrylic and polycarbonate high-quality products. They are easy to care for and are not afraid of mechanical damage. By the way, plastic furniture will perfectly fit in other directions, for example, high-tech or Bauhaus.
  
• Glass and mirror. Glossy surfaces are used in design because of their ability to visually increase space. 

Materials

Apartments where minimalism “lives” are decorated with a variety of materials. It can be monochromatic smooth or textured wallpaper, glass, natural or artificial stone, ceramic tiles. It is important to understand that all surfaces must have an ideal shape, so a high-quality rough finish is mandatory.

As part of the style, natural wood is used in the interiors. It decorates floors or walls, is used in the manufacture of furniture. It is important that these are valuable, qualitatively processed, wood species. They will fill the space with natural warmth, emphasize the elite design.

In the style of minimalism, the ceilings are made in light colors, they should be smooth and have no decorations. For the design of the floor use tiles, marble, parquet, laminate or, as a budget option – linoleum. Window and door openings try to make so invisible that they simply merge with the interiors.

The design maneuver involves the use of monochrome wallpaper, painting, stone tiles, wooden panels for decorating the walls. It is possible to stylize the space “under the brick” or use decorative plaster. The choice of a particular option depends on personal preferences.

Color palette

If we talk about the color palette, then modern stylistics involves a mixture of colors: white, beige, gray, pearl. You can effectively combine light and dark tones, individually zoning the space.

In the interiors of houses you can see such combinations as white, graphite and blue, olive, and white. If earlier the style implied strict tones, today you can find more vivid solutions. Accent notes of light green, yellow, green, etc. are added to light colors.

Decor

Minimalism is not rich in decor, but its correct use stylizes and complements the room. Interior accents should not go beyond the concept. For example, when developing a design in order to revive the space, flowers are often used. Orchids are unlikely to work, and intricate succulents will be an ideal solution.

To diversify the design in the spirit of minimalism will help black and white urban photo, you can hang a portrait. It is important to choose an accessory that matches the style. Then it will be possible to achieve perfect aesthetics and harmony.

Prints are extremely rare in minimalism – the style prefers large, monochromatic, smooth surfaces, preferably without frames: abstract, avant-garde, graphic. Here you will not see the masterpieces of Vincent Van Gogh.

Textile

Modern design projects offer to somewhat diversify the restrained palette, using accent textiles in the interior. If one or two shades are chosen in the design, then with the help, for example, of a bedspread, you can make a bright note to diversify the palette. Monochrome surfaces with an accent will appear in a new way.

For children’s rooms, living rooms, other rooms, the same principle applies. Use natural high-quality fabrics: smooth or textured.

Windows and lighting

Minimalist design offers plenty of light, and better yet, natural light. Therefore, if the budget and technical project allows, choose panoramic windows – you can not go wrong.

Sources of artificial lighting – lounge devices with a soft uniform glow. Popular track and string systems, LED strips, filling the room with light to the maximum. Ribbons installed along the perimeter of the ceiling are able to expand narrow corridors, add height and lightness to the room. And the floor lighting – mirrored from the glossy surfaces – is a light effect.

Alternatively, you can use ordinary hanging chandeliers and even their classic versions. This will slightly dilute the monotony of minimalism, especially if no other accent elements are used in the interior.

In the office will find their place wall sconces and floor lamps, table lamps, and spots. Materials are the same: natural wood, steel, aluminum, chrome, glass.

Design of the kitchen, bathroom in the style of minimalism

Kitchens are decorated strictly. For walls, floors, furniture, choose two or three colors. The surfaces are smooth, unadorned. The functionality should be thought out as much as possible, so furniture and accessories of leading manufacturers who have already managed to worry about everything are used.

Minimalist kitchen is flat surfaces, cabinets with translucent glass and chrome details, built-in appliances, dining tables with glass countertops, chairs with soft leather seats and high metal legs.

Bright inclusions are possible. For example, one of the walls or the kitchen apron is made in contrast to the rest of the decoration.

The bathroom is decorated in a similar way. The surfaces of the walls and floors are made monochromatic without drawings, plumbing and furniture are chosen reliable and functional, strict design. When choosing in favor of this style, any pretentiousness is unacceptable. Conciseness is the main rule, thanks to which in the interiors it is possible to create a high level of comfort, to demonstrate the status of real estate.

Choosing materials for the kitchen and bath, give preference to discreet, but high-quality panels: glass, wood, stone, chrome steel.

The resistance of materials to contamination, moisture and mechanical factors is a separate requirement in the style. Easy care of surfaces will eliminate the need to monitor the order all the time. After all, initially minimalism is order. Say “no” to non-practical decoration and get another bonus when organizing a comfortable interior.

Bedroom design, children’s room in the style of minimalism

A bedroom in the style of minimalism is a maximum of spaciousness, an abundance of light and air. Everything is organized in such a way that unnecessary items are not visible. It is possible to install a carefully thought-out hidden storage system in the form of built-in cabinets and podiums with drawers.

In the interiors, mirrors and paintings with abstract images can be used. Textiles for bedrooms and children’s bedrooms are chosen in accordance with the color palette of the space.

Living room in the style of minimalism

The living room is decorated according to the general rules: furniture in a minimum quantity and decor as small strokes. The living room in minimalism is not boring and simple, rather it is brilliant. Everything is so thought out and functional that, it seems, it can no longer be otherwise.

“Minimalism for me is to keep the space simple, concise and emphasize the attractive architectural features of the space. The palette is mostly monochrome and the color is used as an accent,” says Sharon Blaustein, chief designer of Interior LLC.

Furniture for the living room is functional: chairs on which you can comfortably sit, tables for drinks, a fireplace near which you can warm up and discuss something in the circle of loved ones. Behind the seeming external simplicity lies the real art of design. Minimalism focuses on the unity of form and function.

During the development of the design of the living room in a minimalist style, pay special attention to the seating area: sofa, armchairs, coffee table. Carefully selecting the elements, you will create a room with its own energy – not only functional, but also harmonious.

Entrance hall in the style of minimalism

Tired of tripping over your shoes, hardly finding free space on your hanger? The hallway is the face of the apartment, and in minimalism this face should be clean, i.e. free from heaps.

If it is impossible to build large cabinets into the interior of a small-sized apartment, choose minimalist narrow models with a glossy surface. Remember gloss expands space? The minimum depth of sliding systems is 30 cm, in this case it will be possible to equip furniture along the entire length of the corridor without hiding the space.

Additional storage space for seasonal items is equipped on the mezzanine. Do not confuse with the Soviet versions – modern ergonomics and differ in visual aesthetics. The only thing these systems have in common is the name.

In the interior of the hallway, special attention is paid to lighting. There should be no darkened corners in the room, but at the same time the light is diffused, not causing irritation.

Attention should be paid to the storage of the usual trifles for the hallway: keys, combs, shoe care products, gloves. Open shelves, on which a bunch of different objects are piled up, look sloppy. Instead of chaos, choose drawers with aesthetic boxes-organizers. Break things down by type and purpose, and forget about clutter forever.

Choose the color and materials. For a small hallway in minimalism – these are light mirror or matte surfaces. Overall – allow iteration: dark and light palette and their various combinations.

Minimalist study or student’s room

When you need to optimize the office, systematizing everything important in it – minimalism is suitable as well as possible. Even if the rooms are decorated in a different style, for example, adjacent: Scandinavian, high-tech, modern, the interior of the office may differ.

When everything you need is “at hand”, but safely hidden from prying eyes, the work becomes more fruitful. When organizing a cabinet, consider 3 basic principles, regardless of whether your work area is combined with others or not.

• We need a lot of light. If in the living room this factor is alternative, then with a lack of light at the desk it will be difficult to concentrate. Place the desktop or desk by the window, arrange additional light sources.
  
• We need free space. If the office is located in the living room, use zoning techniques. If the office is located in a separate room, provide a recreation area – a place where you can sit down to distract yourself and recuperate. If there are often business partners in your house, you can equip a fireplace or a bar in the office.
  
• We need sound insulation. It is often forgotten at the stage of rough work. Later, we run into problems. Indeed, in the absence of extraneous noise, it is more comfortable and calm for the nervous system to work. Especially if you write reports, reports or record tracks. Keep your personal comfort zone). And we will help with practical advice.

10 mistakes in the design of the room in minimalism

Critical thinking and concern for personal comfort should be present in any design project, even if they are somewhat different from the requirements and rules. In order not to one day find that your house resembles a hospital room, it is worth thinking a little. Designers of DG Home outlined the mistakes that interfere with the interior design.

• Do not rush to draw and glue

The mistake of the majority is to first choose the decoration of the walls, whether it concerns wallpaper, painting or facing panels. Wall decoration “lives” on average – 3-5 years. Later – the material becomes obsolete, wears out or gets bored. Furniture and flooring last much longer.

When you’re just designing an interior, start by choosing furniture. It is much easier to choose the color of the finish to the interior items, rather than vice versa.

• Choose aesthetics instead of comfort

Modern trendy models captivate with appearance. At the sight of extravagant sofas, armchairs and interior chairs, the eyes run away, and the brain frantically draws the corners in which these objects can be placed. We immediately come up with an excuse for our desire and immediately buy. Later it turns out that the back of the sofa presses while sitting, and it is impossible to relax on a bar stool. Do not neglect comfort – test the furniture in the salon.

• Impromptu purchases – liked, bought

We often forget about the previous rule when it comes to small, sweet to the heart, things. Random items bought on a hike have no place in a minimalist interior. Figurines, vases, cupids, soft plush toys – will find their place in boho, Provence or shebby-chic. Give it to your friends.

• Continue to store things

When planning a design in the style of minimalism, you will have to immediately remember the rule – do not engage in hoarding. Get rid of junk. Under the trash, understand everything that is not used, but only takes up space.

Memorable expensive things: family heirlooms, photos, gifts of loved ones – systematize, get separate boxes. Give unnecessary things to orphanages and temples.

• Forget about the design project

Another mistake associated with the desire is to engage in the purchase of furniture and decor without a preliminary plan. The development of the design will allow you to compare the size of the room with the size of the furniture, its color and location, to choose the appropriate finish. Forgetting about the project, you may encounter the fact that the elements do not fit into the context.

• TV panel – as the center of the living room

Reception of times of lack of entertainment. Do not put the TV at the forefront of the living room. Be flexible, think about what else you can do in the evenings. Maybe a pool table?

• The living room is not a desert

We know that a minimalist house is devoid of unnecessary details. But this does not mean that you should be surrounded by white empty walls. Find something that inspires and add a touch of drama. Living plants and abstractions always work well.

• Just straight, not a step to the left

Minimalism is an adherent of simple geometry. But again , this does not mean that if you put a cozy round ottoman, you will violate Zen. Rather, on the contrary – you will bring life to too correct an interior.

• White-white, snowmelt

The problem of the majority is to take everything literally. If designers advise using light colors, then everything in the room becomes faded. It will definitely be difficult to be in such a room. Remember the hospital room?

Do you want a bright interior? Take white as a base, but do not use it simultaneously in the decoration of walls and floors. Add 2-3 adjacent shades: pearl, ivory, cream, peach, champagne, nude. Pick up in contrast dark colors – for example, for finishing the floor. Test your options in a graphics editor.

• Study forecasts for the next 5 years

We constantly publish new products from the world of design, interview the owners of design studios and trendsetters, participate in conferences and exhibitions – we stay in the stream to share information with our customers. Before you decide on a project, study what will be relevant in the coming years.

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