Is Less Really More? The Criticisms of Minimalist Design
Minimalism is a polarising design style, and is often criticised for being cold, empty, unhomely and feeling like a hospital room. If I asked you to picture a minimalist interior in your mind, I feel confident that you see white walls, light flooring, little to no clutter, a grey couch, and maybe a secondary armchair, possibly in a different grey tone.
Minimalism began as an art movement in the 1960s, but architecturally speaking, was born from the Bauhaus and International Style that was being developed in the 1920s and 1930s. International Style was about rejecting functionless ornamentation, and instead, the focus was on using industrialised materials such as glass, steel and reinforced concrete, with the form and look of the building being derived from the functional layout and expressed material and structure. It could be argued that minimalism goes even further back with strong ties to Japanese history and Zen philosophy, which is inner freedom and peace through simplicity.
People tend to focus on the materials, furniture and decor of minimalist design, forgetting that there is much more to it. The style or design approach is about simple and functional forms, clean lines, no ornamentation, and a limited material palette, which could be anything, not necessarily white and black.
Warm minimalism is a way to use minimalist design principles while avoiding interiors that could come across as cold, stark and uninviting. In true minimalist fashion, it is simple to do so. Instead of a crisp white plasterboard wall, consider whites with some beige or cream to add a subtle hint of warmth, or even textured finishes such as limewash. Consider the use of timber, particularly light oak or rich walnuts, which could be used for your flooring, or walls, but as well as furniture pieces, joinery or shelving. If you love the look and texture of brick or stone, avoiding the cooler and darker tones and instead opt for lighter and cream colours.
Colder materials such as steel and concrete can still be incorporated, and will often pair well with timber which provides a nice soft contrast.
How you decorate your space will play an important role, and this will largely depend if you are following minimalist architecture, or you like the interior design style, or perhaps you’re someone who practices the lifestyle of minimalism. However, curation is critical.
People are often so critical of minimalist design and interiors as it goes against convention. Most of us probably grew up in a home with off-white walls, brown carpets, maybe a few rooms were painted different colours, photos up on every wall and items collected from holidays on display everywhere. So when a lot of that is removed, many see it as quite jarring, unnatural and uncomfortable.
It’s worth remembering that minimalism isn’t for everyone, and if you’re someone who critisices a minimalist home on social media calling it unhomely, cold or a hospital room, remember that some people may think your home is tacky, dated, old and cluttered. Our homes can be an expression of our individuality, our personal tastes and interests, and some people not only prefer, but love minimalism. What may feel cold and soulless to you is someone’s sanctuary.
Videography and editing, photography and words by Anthony Richardson.
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