Minimalism design is the art of decorating with less. Getting the look is simple when you fully understand the interior design style. This guide defines minimalism for you and then shares tips to help you decorate with minimalist home decor.
Minimalist Style Defined
You can define minimalism with one word: simplicity.
Minimalist design is all about streamlined shapes and clean lines, a limited color palette and a bare minimum amount of furniture. This doesn’t mean minimalist decor is strictly ultra-modern or stark. Rather, minimalist home decor embraces open space without clutter. It makes rooms feel cheerful and inviting.
To decorate like a minimalist, pare things down to the bare essentials. Read on for ideas that can inspire your minimalist interior.
Light It Up Right
The right lighting is key in any room. Even though minimalism aims to keep things simple, you can still layer light in your space.
Start with ambient or overhead lighting. A minimalist flush-mount light, chandelier or pendant can serve as the main lighting source.
Then, add task lights like minimalist floor lamps and table lamps as needed. Chase away any remaining shadows with accent lighting like minimalist wall sconces.
Lighting fixtures made of natural-finished wood, clear and frosted glass and brushed metal can all look at home among minimalist decor.
Get Rid of Clutter
Minimalism is anti-clutter. Space is an important element of the interior design style.
Edit what you display on shelves and accent tables, selecting one or two pieces to show off. Store the rest in closed storage furniture like a cabinet with sleek, clean lines.
Visual balance is important, too. Stick to one focal point and let the open space help define the look.
Embrace White Space
It might be tempting to cover every surface with an accessory, but resist the urge. Minimalism is all about keeping things simple. White space gives focal points or accessories breathing room and helps them stand out. Plus, it brings a clean, fresh quality to an interior.
Tip: White interior paint is a great option for a minimalist space. Many options are available with cool, warm and neutral casts to consider. Use the ProjectColor App to try different shades in your space.
Quality Designs
Invest in classic furniture that will stand the test of time. Choose pieces that feature defined lines, geometric shapes, gentle curves and flat surfaces. Quality materials like solid wood are a great option for minimalist rooms.
Keep your floor plan simple by only placing the furniture that you need in a room. Not only will this help you get that open look, but it also reduces how much you need to buy. Freeing up room in your budget with a limited shopping list gives you more to spend on the pieces you require.
Neutral Palette
Bold and bright hues are often too dramatic for a minimalist space. A neutral palette can help you get that quiet, calm look. Choose gray, beige, white, cream or ivory as your key shade. Then, pick another neutral for your secondary color.
For a third accent color, think pastels like lavender, light blue or peach. Add one of these soft colors with decorative accents like a vase or candle holder.
Warm it Up and Add Texture
Natural light brightens up a minimalist room. Leave large windows unadorned or hang sheer curtains to let in as much sunshine as you can.
Another trick to warm up your space is to add a natural element like indoor plants. Florals and greenery can add flair to any room and also help to improve indoor air quality.
Color isn't the only way to add interest to a room. Layering textures can also spice up space while keeping the decor minimalist.
Place a shag or braided area rug beneath your seating area, dining table or another key spot. Not only will the rug add a new texture, but it will also visually divide the space without sacrificing the open feel.
Other decorative accents like throw blankets and throw pillows can introduce more textures to a room. Rattan furniture and glass coffee tables provide more ways to play with texture.
Tip: Check the sunlight requirements of houseplants before you buy, so you can choose something that will thrive in your room.
Stylish Storage
To stick to a minimalist design theme, you’ll need enough closed storage to hide clutter. Sideboards and buffets can work in the dining room and beyond to offer functional storage. Choose one with notched doors or simple door hardware.
If you’re decorating on a budget, you can easily transform open storage into closed storage. Just fill simple decorative storage bins or baskets with items and slide them onto shelves and into cubbies.
Now that you know what minimalist home decor involves, you’re ready to design your own space. Start by choosing your color palette and planning the layout of your room. Then, find the paint, furniture and decorative accents you need to bring your ideas to life at The Home Depot.
Use The Home Depot Mobile App to locate products and check inventory. We’ll take you to the exact aisle and bay.