What is Contemporary Minimalism? A Design Movement in Interior Design History- Simplified.
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Contemporary minimalism is a design movement that has been gaining popularity in recent years. Its origins can be traced back to the art and design movements of the early 20th century, but it has evolved into a distinct style that is both timeless and modern. In this blog post, we will explore the history of contemporary minimalism, its major design elements, and how to incorporate it into your home.
Photo by Callum Shaw on Unsplash
A Glimpse at the History
Contemporary minimalism has its roots in the minimalist art movement of the 1960s, which sought to strip away all non-essential elements and focus on the purity of form and material. This concept was soon adopted by architects and interior designers who aimed to create spaces that were simple, functional, and uncluttered.
In the 1980s and 1990s, the minimalist design movement gained further momentum, with prominent designers such as John Pawson and Tadao Ando championing the aesthetic of clean lines, open spaces, and a limited color palette. This laid the foundation for contemporary minimalism as we know it today.
Major Design Elements
Contemporary minimalism is characterized by a few key design elements that set it apart from other styles. These include:
1. Simplicity: Minimalist design emphasizes simplicity in form, function, and color. Clean lines, geometric shapes, and a pared-down color palette are hallmarks of this style. Stick to a neutral color palette of whites, creams, grays, and earth tones. These colors create a sense of calm and help to highlight the beauty of natural materials.
2. Open Spaces: Contemporary minimalism is about creating a sense of openness and lightness. Spaces are uncluttered and free of unnecessary decorations, allowing for a calm and serene atmosphere. Start by decluttering your space and getting rid of any unnecessary items. Minimalist design thrives on simplicity, so it's important to create a clean and uncluttered environment.
3. Material Focus: Minimalist design often highlights the beauty of natural materials such as wood, stone, and metal. These materials are used in their purest form, without excessive ornamentation. Let natural light flood into your space by using light, sheer window treatments and strategically placing mirrors to reflect light around the room, highlighting our materials.
Photo by Pixabay
4. Functional Furniture: Furniture in minimalist spaces is chosen for its functionality and understated elegance. Pieces are often sleek and simple, with an emphasis on practicality. When selecting furniture and decor, opt for a few high-quality pieces rather than a multitude of inexpensive items. Choose pieces with clean lines and a timeless appeal.
5. Minimalist Art and Decor: Select art and decor that complements the minimalist aesthetic, such as simple geometric art pieces and carefully chosen decorative objects that enhance the space without overwhelming it.
Design Finds
Shop the look with these inspiring pieces and more on our Design Finds page.
Wood Wave Accent Table
Black Minimalist Wall Art
Wub Lamp
Cement Hands Dish
Knott Minimalist Multi-Color Rug
Woven Pendant
Contemporary minimalism is a design style that celebrates simplicity, functionality, and the beauty of unadorned spaces. By incorporating its major design elements into your home, you can create a serene and modern living environment that is both timeless and inviting.
So, are you ready to embrace contemporary minimalism in your home?
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