Life, Styled

What Is A Minimalist Design Style

The bare essentials. That is how some would describe a minimalist design style, one void of color and personality. A house designed with this style will only have the necessities needed to function, but that is not the case. While it is true that the minimalist style lacks the extra fluff and sparkle of other styles, it is still a beautiful choice for those who are looking to create a space with simplicity. Let’s unpack this style to see if it suits your home.

What Is A Minimalist Style?

What began as an art movement of the 1960s gradually migrated into the design world. Clean lines, open floor plans, natural light, and simple accessories like one art piece or a delicate vase. The minimal style is minimal. It trades out the trendy for the timeless by eliminating the extra. You won’t find clutter, loads of color, or significant patterns. Instead, you will see natural light paired with a quiet monochromatic palette. Walls are adorned with only a few pieces of art and furniture that serve a practical purpose. White, beige, and gray are the primary colors used with a minimal design style since they create a simple, calming effect.

a white cabinet with a white counter top

Is It Right For You?

Some may hear the description of a minimalist style and think it is too dull for their taste. While it is true that this style is more simplistic, it has its own beauty and charm. That being said, how do you know if this style is for you? Can you relate to most of these things on the list?

  • Do you have a less-is-more approach to life?
  • The focus of the space is not the decor but the view?
  • Natural light is essential in the design.
  • A simple color palette is what you prefer.

Be sure to talk with your designer about your design preferences and vision for your space. This will help them create a space that reflects you and what is important to your lifestyle.

Design With A Minimalist Style.

If you choose this style, what is considered essential to the design, what elements are key, and what needs to be avoided?

  • Remember, minimal is the key: While this seems obvious, adding a little extra color here or hanging one more art piece can be tempting, but a minimalist design thrives on simple form and function.
  • Be ready to declutter: Clutter is the opposite of minimalism. Take stock of what’s in each room and think about ways you can remove, reduce, or store what’s already there.
  • Neutral colors are king: Subdued and toned-down shades are essential to this style, as they invoke a clean space and highlight the essentials.
  • Remember form and function: This is an important element of the design as it allows you to use the space and enjoy it. Pick furniture that is not only functional but also comfortable.

Above all else, the most important thing to remember is that this is your home. While you are encouraged to gather inspirational photos, don’t forget that this is your home and should reflect your style. Talk to your designer about ways to incorporate a few things that say home to you. Here are a few other design tips.

White custom cabinets laundry room

Ready To Start?

The minimalist style has several benefits, including a calming effect on the atmosphere. If you feel this is the right one for you or would like to discuss it with one of our knowledgeable designers, just give us a call or send us a message. With over 20 years of experience, we are ready to help you create a space that is just right for you.

When space is limited, it is valuable and greater thought is invested in creating a design that maximizes square footage to provide a functional space for the homeowner. Both manufacturers and designers alike are continuously thinking of new ways to give their clients the things they need, but using less space. One such item is the Murphy bed, yes, the one used in multiple comedy routines, but it has evolved into a stylish piece, yet remains as functional as ever. It is also comparable in price point to a traditional bed. Could the Murphy bed be the solution to your limited space problem? Let’s unpack exactly what it is and how it can help give you additional room in your home.

What to do when you don’t have the luxury of square footage? How can you create storage when there is not a lot of room, to begin with? Can you make small spaces work for you? These are good questions that we have helped our clients answer numerous times. While it may present more challenges than a larger home, it is possible to have the necessary storage for you to keep everything you need on hand. Small is not bad; in fact, it comes with multiple benefits, and a good design can help you maximize the space you do have to build a home that is exactly right for you. Let’s talk about some creative storage solutions for small spaces.

We always say details matter, and that goes beyond a project. Your home is filled with details that tell your guests who you are and what matters to you. Artwork, pottery pieces, and furniture are just a few things that give homeowners a chance to show off their style. Another area is hosting, and tablescapes have become a beautiful, fun way to share your own unique design choices with family and friends. Whether it is for a small gathering to enjoy time with those you love or to celebrate a special occasion, there are many ways to create the perfect look. By combining different colors, patterns, or materials, you can create a tablescape that will dazzle your guests, whether you prefer an elaborate or simple design.

Window treatments have made an interesting journey through the years in interior design. From floor to ceiling and mere window length, they have travelled the full circle of style. Today, window treatments can come in a variety of forms and options, plus they do more than just block out the sun; they can finish the look of a room and add the necessary touch that brings out the homeowner’s personality. Windows are our connection to nature and are an essential part of the home, which means they deserve proper consideration and care. They are also an area of the room that naturally draws the eye of the homeowner and guest alike. Most of the time, however, windows tend to be overlooked.

There’s nothing quite like the warm weather and smell of blooming flowers that come with springtime. While you may have grown used to cozying up indoors during the colder months, now you can start spending more time tending to your garden, playing with your kids in the yard, and kicking back on the patio while enjoying the sun.

But in order to fully enjoy your time outside (and potentially save yourself from having to pay for expensive home repairs in the future), you will need to perform some basic home maintenance. To help you get started, here are some key areas to tackle this spring, brought to you by Greenbrook Design.