Less is more in Dutch minimalist design. As the designer, Piet Boon, the “King of Dutch Design” proves out in all of his and his company’s projects.
Clean lines, reductive color palettes, and the deliberate mixing of media create spaces that invite and soothe the senses. The concepts of minimalism have been made available to the mainstream by outlets such as DOM, IKEA, and Restoration Hardware. But true minimalism is not only in the reduction of superfluous detail but rather in the intentional use of form to evoke serenity and a feeling of luxury.
Spaces that are bleak are not minimalist, they are merely bleak. Looking at a room with a white wall, haphazardly chosen pieces of furniture and no ornamentation is the worst effect of the adoption of minimalism.
“Minimalism for me is about keeping a space simple, uncluttered, and accentuating the attractive architectural features of a space. The palette is mostly monochromatic and then color is used as an accent,” says Sharon Blaustein, principal designer at B Interior LLC. “I think minimalism and functionality go hand in hand. A minimalist-designed space incorporates an open floor plan, lots of light, and simple line furnishings that are well-built and comfortable. All these create a soothing and inviting space that has a timeless aesthetic.”
“Minimalism allows something other than the space to be the focus. For example, the people in the space or the view from the window might be more important than the room’s decoration,” says Robert Brown of Robert Brown Interior Design. “[Everything] should be functional and add value to the space. You still need all of the items in a space for it to function, but in minimalist decor, ‘form’ is very important. For example, in a dining room, you need a table and chairs. These pieces need to speak to one another and relate in regards to things like line, color, mass, etc. They must work well together in their basic shape.”
“Minimalist architecture involves the use of reductive design elements, without ornamentation or decoration,” says Lilian H. Weinreich of Lilian H. Weinreich Architects. “Proponents of minimalism believe that condensing the content and form of a design to its bare essentials reveals the true ‘essence of architecture. Illustrating aesthetic restraint—a key concept in formal simplicity and architectural minimalism.”
Jennifer Tulley of Jennifer Tulley Architects explains: “Minimalism is an approach to design where the elements of the structure are simplified to their essential components. Nothing is added for effect. The design thrives on the beauty of the forms and the materials used to create the forms,” she says. “The design needs to be clear and simple, but not boring. This is where the use of light, form, and beautiful materials is so essential.
Our busy lives are crammed with daily interactions, high-stress decisions, and an unlimited palette of experiences. The simplicity and elegance of minimalist design allows the home to be the place of true rest, an escape from the pressures of the outside world. With the elegant design elements of COCOON, Easy Drain, and Designer Doorware from Specialty Hardware and Plumbing, the look created is uncluttered, clean, airy, and sophisticated. Creating tranquility for the eye and serenity for the soul.
Clients want their space to be a refuge from the world. A monochromatic palette of light grey and shades of texture creates a soothing atmosphere. The challenge to create warmth and a sense of welcome is highlighted by the mixture of textures, light and dark, and the sense of order that envelops you when you enter a well-design minimalist space.
5 Hallmarks of Great Minimalist Design
Scroll to top