A study by RentCafe reveals that most of their 12,000 surveyed participants still prefer minimalistic interior design. This extends to the choice of color schemes, shapes, and decorations.
But even though so many laud minimalism, few know how to do it well. If you’re not paying attention, a “less is more” approach can leave your home looking like you just moved in.
When you’re making a space a home, you need warmth.
But the good news is – you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for simplicity. A minimalist space doesn’t have to be cold or look like a carbon copy of the rooms in Architectural Digest. The trick is knowing how to add the right touches without cluttering things up.
So, how do you do that?
Let’s find out.
It’s time to stop living in a bare box.
To make minimalistic interior design work, you need to understand how the elements communicate with each other. Minimalism is not always about shedding; it can be about complementing, too.
Here are 4 easy ways to make your minimalist space feel warm and reflect your personality:
Choose a Warm Color Palette
Think of a minimalistic room.
We can bet you imagined a space as crisp as a freshly ironed shirt – clean, rigid, and all-white. While that’s the model image of ‘minimalist,’ let’s face the music: a colorless room is basically a showroom. It lacks personality.
But there’s a quick fix, especially if you’re just moving in. You need to mind the color palette.
If you want warmth that won’t throw off your simplistic style, neutrals like beige and cream are your friends. These shades are a great foundation for a modest yet gripping space. Warm neutrals play nice with everything, which makes them versatile options for a minimalistic space.
To build on this, consider muted earth tones like terracotta and olive. Using warmer tones will give your home more character and serve as subtle enhancements to your existing color palette.
Add Natural Materials
Minimalist design pedestals clean lines and simplicity, that much is obvious. But, there’s always room for natural materials that add that powerful ingredient – texture.
Start with wood – a familiar staple with great potential.
For example, instead of buying a marble coffee table, opt for a walnut one. Or, install oak shelving to save floor space and avoid overshadowing your aesthetic. Many designers prefer dark wood because it provides a nice contrast to a lighter color palette, but this is a preference.
Wicker and rattan can also be great additions. They bring in missing texture and contribute to a lived-in feel. Think items like woven baskets, rattan chairs, or a solitary wicker lamp in the corner: simple and impactful.
Lastly, don’t overlook textiles. Soft wool rugs, cotton throws, and linen cushions are synonymous with warmth and essential for any home.
Bring in Greenery
Plants have a way of taking the edge off a room. They break up the sleek lines and introduce calmness, especially if you pick the right ones.
It’s best to start with easy-care plants like succulents or snake plants because they need little attention. Or, if you want to add height or make a statement, go with a fiddle-leaf fig or a monstera.
You may even go with a subtle approach and place small potted plants on shelves or windowsills. Just don’t crowd them.
Alas, real plants can be fussy and needy. If your home lacks natural light, some plants may revolt and wither. At that point, it’s time to find an alternative that won’t cause any more plant suffering. As an idea, try artificial plants that don’t need upkeep and look realistic enough to invite a touch.
Artificial hanging garlands offer the same visual appeal without the responsibility. You don’t have to go heavy with the decorating; you can wrap a garland around a column, drape it from a mantle, or make your own wreath. And before you know it, you’ve got all the makings of a breathtaking room.
Personalise
If a room’s design is the bread, that personal touch is the butter that makes it go down smoother. Being a minimalist doesn’t mean avoiding decor like the plague. After all, your home should reflect who you are and give your visitors a glimpse of your story.
The best part of the minimalist style is that it’s the perfect backdrop to highlight pieces that matter. Usually, these items serve as a storyboard; they’re not there to fill space.
To do this well, you have to do it with intention.
Begin with artwork. Instead of cramming arbitrary decor on your walls, choose a couple of pieces that resonate. Then, make them focal points that stand out.
Or, you can add books or personal collections that suit your space and add meaning to your life. Stack your favorite reads on that walnut coffee table or display a few mementos, photos, and travel souvenirs to highlight memories with loved ones.
Yet, you should be selective. A few impactful items speak louder than a shelf overflowing with random knickknacks.
Conclusion
It’s time to stop sacrificing warmth in a minimalist space.
By following our 4 easy tips, you can fashion a simple and inviting home.
In the end, the beauty of minimalism is in the balance. Let your space breathe and make it unique, not a clone of an IKEA display.
Soon enough, your home will be both minimalist and full of life.
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