It may be a world of chaos out there, but create an atmosphere of tranquillity and relaxation at home and you can escape to your personal sanctuary whenever you feel the need to unwind. A contemporary styled, minimalist home is usually influenced by Scandinavian home interiors or Japanese Zen traditions. It’s a pared back look that looks both modern and timeless, with select features that give a sleek and simple look to your home.
The internet is awash with inspiration to turn your existing interiors into a minimalist home, from the best colour schemes, fabrics and furniture to the most suitable window dressings and more. All of this can make a huge visual impact, help maximise the space and create an ambience of serene calm.
Let’s take a look at 3 essential elements you should be focusing on to create the minimalist home of your dreams.
Interior wall treatments
Plain walls are a key element in minimalist interior design. Say goodbye to whimsical wallpaper and fussy patterns, and embrace the zen-like quality of pure white. In fact, if all your budget stretches to is an economy sized tub of brilliant white emulsion, don’t worry – it may be all you need. The aim is to create a blank canvas against which a few select, simple furniture pieces can be showcased without distraction, and with the maximum of light.
However, if you find pure white a little too cold, too severe or just plain anaemic, there are other options. Look for off-whites with hints of yellow, orange or blue that provide just enough of a touch or colour to add some warmth.
Lighter tones such as grey or cream can be combined with contemporary window dressings, furniture and storage to make the most of the pared back vibe. Remember: less is always more when it comes to minimalism.
Windows and glass
Minimalist homes, whether Scandi or Japan inspired, are all about the quality of the light. Large, unobstructed windows and full height glass panels create bright, airy atmospheres, while contemporary window dressings are perfect for a stripped back look that can make your property stand out. Your main options are:
Blinds and shutters
Contemporary window blinds come in a range of styles including Venetian, pleated and roller blinds, and in array of colours, designs and textures. They can be manually or electrically operated. Depending on the size of your windows, you may be able to buy off-the-shelf products at moderate cost, or have bespoke window solutions made to measure for your home.
The clean lines of plantation shutters can be an attractive alternative to window blinds, and they come in a wealth of shutter styles, colours and materials. Who needs curtains when structural shutters or blinds are all that’s needed to promote the minimalist vibe?
No window coverings
Opting for no window treatments at all lets the windows speak for themselves. If you have period windows with beautiful architectural detail, or stunning modern glass doors, or a view to die for, this could be your best option.
Doing away with curtains or blinds also lets in the most amount of light. Install solar control glass if you’re worried about fabrics fading, and choose window film applied directly to glass panels, or switchable glass with different levels of opacity, in case privacy is an issue. Here’s how smart glass works:
Other window treatments
While curtains are the classic window dressing choice for homes, they don’t usually fit with minimalist designs. However, if you’re a die-hard fan and simply can’t manage without sheer voiles or cosy curtains, don’t despair. The way to make them work in a minimalist room scheme is to choose unfussy designs and plain styles.
Go for an understated white or cream fabric and hang the curtains so they frame the windows simply – no pelmets or ornate curtain headers that might detract from the beauty of the window, or the overall interiors scheme.
Finally, had you thought of taking the organic option? Natural materials such as wood, bamboo or living plants can help to complete the minimalist look, all the while creating a striking contrast to the muted room design.
Furniture and storage solutions
From Japanese minimalist design to Scandinavian interiors, you’ll find that minimalist furniture is supremely functional and simple. Forget about ornate detailing and head instead to stores like IKEA for budget friendly items, or splash out on a few handpicked items from iconic furniture designers to create a unique and personal style in your home.
Finally, the clean lines and calm ambience of minimalist interiors dictate that there should be no clutter. That’s why concealed storage is such an important feature. Add more concealed storage space through built-in cupboards, walk-in wardrobes, underbed storage, drawers and more so you can hide away your belongings and keep the room tidy at all times.
