Simplicity Is Not Minimalism – MGAO
Less, by Design
Simplicity Is Not Minimalism – MGAO
‘The thought of simplicity in architecture is often misunderstood because it's confused with the thought of minimalism. Whereas I say minimalism is more of an aesthetic outcome, or a desire to reduce to the bare minimum, in detail and material. Whereas, I say simplicity is something polar opposite.’
– Matt Ross Goodman, MGAO
Is simplicity the same as minimalism? Matt Ross Goodman, Director of MGAO, reflects on an approach to simplicity defined by restraint rather than reduction. Grounded in the idea of as little as possible, and as much as necessary, he discusses the balance required to avoid over-simplification, and the role of context in shaping architecture that feels calm, practical and enduring. Through ideas of decluttering, Matt describes how simplicity can bring focus to what truly matters, allowing spaces to support daily life, rather than compete for attention.
Produced by Simple Dwelling, filmed and edited by Anthony Richardson, words by Anthony Richardson.
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