Less is more
Minimalism can be liberating
Not everyone’s dream home is the cosy country cottage full of bits and bobs. Some prefer a more modern approach with crisp lines and clean edges. Lifestyle website The Manual offers up a few tips on how to get the minimalist look for your home.
Choose simple and boxy, with white being the preferred colour scheme on the exterior.
Where weather and geography permit, flat roofs and large sliding glass doors are ideal design features that favour minimalism, though flat roofs can be problematic in places with lots of snow. Not everyone has a giant backyard that connects seamlessly with their living room and maybe you don’t want a boxy house. That’s what the inside is for.
Choosing a white-on-white theme for furniture helps declutter both house and head. The more daring, might want to opt for splashes of faded blue or shades of taupe to help inject personality.
Look for high-end stuff that lasts rather than adopting a trend piece with a limited life span. Traditional mid-century items can be the perfect accent pieces.
Keep in mind, less is more.
Hanging a single piece of art can be visually compelling and a dramatic centrepiece. Don’t be afraid to go big and be creative. Instead of patterns, consider textures. Harmony is easier to achieve, while still ensuring differences that mix and mingle without clashing.
Minimalism is easily implemented in the most important room in the house, the kitchen. Counters are straight and angular by design and offer lots of space to play with. Keep it clear, clean and tidy.
Create vibrant splashes of colour by filling bowls with fresh fruits or veggies. Since this is the room that probably sees the most interaction, every choice is important. Appliances should be both functional and fashionable so look for stainless steel finishes that fit in with any style.