MINIMALISM: INTERIOR, STYLE FEATURES, FINISHING MATERIALS

The minimalist design style emerged in the first half of the 20th century. It represents an inner philosophy for those who dislike excessiveness, chaos, and busyness. The motto of minimalism is “less is more.” Simplicity, minimalism, and precision are the main characteristics of minimalism. The roots of this style can be traced back to the design of Japanese dwellings, whose asceticism is based on the features of nature and culture. It is Japan that introduced the love for large sliding openings, open spaces that freely welcome natural light and the delicate scent of cherry blossoms to this style.

INTERIOR IN MINIMALIST STYLE

In the modern world, minimalism is in demand among mobile, always rushing individuals who prefer not to burden themselves with unnecessary belongings. Minimalism is well-suited for designing the interior of a store, an apartment, or for developing an office design project.

Minimalism rejects traditional techniques and materials.

STYLE FEATURES

The features of this style include:

  • Availability of open space.
  • Absence of internal partitions, space zoning with lightweight portable screens.
  • Preference for geometric shapes and lines, whether streamlined or rectangular.
  • Absence of intricate decorations or ornaments.
  • Use of simple, sometimes rough, untreated finishing materials.
  • Multi-level lighting.
  • Reliance on neutral or contrasting colors.

FURNITURE AND FINISHING MATERIALS

Minimalism utilizes various simple materials for interior finishing, such as wood and brick, tiles and metal, glass and concrete. The most popular texture is a smooth, glossy surface that is carefully crafted with impeccable geometry. In the absence of decoration, special emphasis is placed on the ecological cleanliness and quality of the materials used.

Minimalism does not advocate for poverty; on the contrary, its first followers in the Western world were affluent individuals who were inclined to acquire not an abundance of things but rather something meaningful.

This principle applies to furniture in minimalist interiors as well. The limited quantity and absence of unnecessary furnishings are compensated by quality. Furniture should not be modest or sparse. The main requirements of minimalism for furniture are multifunctionality, practicality, and strict geometric forms. Built-in furniture without decoration, sliding-door wardrobes, and various niches are welcomed. The placement of furniture in a customized apartment design project is aimed at maximizing the liberation of space from unused items, which contributes to physical and psychological comfort in the interior.

 

ACCESSORIES AND COLOR PALETTE

Minimalists are advocates of the aesthetics of simplicity and freedom and approach the choice of accessories in the interior with strictness: their presence can be minimal if they are valuable, interesting, and reflect the inner world and individuality of the owner.

The color palette in minimalism is light, with the possibility of playing with shades, featuring a lot of white contrasting with black. Natural colors of finishing materials can also be added to the palette. Bright accents can be applied, but their quantity is minimized.

LIGHTING

One of the important characteristics of minimalism is space and light, which are designed with conciseness and absolute necessity in mind. The result is a well-planned spatial arrangement with large window openings because there should be an abundance of both natural and artificial light.

Minimalism places great importance on the selection and placement of lighting fixtures. The interior incorporates an abundance of calm, diffused light, emphasizing the sense of openness and spaciousness. Light sources are concentrated in different areas, with the external design of the fixtures being strict and simple. Spotlights, wall sconces, and floor lamps with unique lampshades, placed at different levels in various parts of the space, are highly sought after.