Minimalist Style: How to Design a Minimalist Interior

Minimalist style is all about simplicity, clarity, and calm. It’s a design approach that strips away the excess, focusing on what truly matters—function, quality, and space to breathe. At its heart, minimalist style is more than a trend; it’s a lifestyle that celebrates less, so you can enjoy more.

Where Did Minimalist Style Begin?

Minimalist style originated in the early 20th century, influenced by Japanese Zen philosophy and traditional design principles that focused on harmony, balance, and simplicity. In the West, it was shaped by the Bauhaus movement in Germany, which promoted “form follows function.” Architects like Ludwig Mies van der Rohe—famous for the phrase “less is more”—and Le Corbusier helped lay the foundations of minimalist design as we know it today.

Where Is Minimalist Style Used?

Minimalist style can be found in homes, offices, boutique hotels, and galleries all over the world. It’s especially popular in urban apartments and modern homes where space is limited and clarity is essential. Scandinavia and Japan are leading examples of regions that champion minimalist interior design, often merging it with natural materials and thoughtful layouts.

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How to Create a Minimalist Style Interior

Designing a minimalist space doesn’t mean making it cold or boring—it’s about choosing intentionally and embracing simplicity. Here’s how to bring minimalist style into your home, room by room.

Walls & Woodwork

Minimalist walls are clean and fuss-free.

• Paint: Stick to a neutral colour palette—crisp whites, warm greys, soft taupes, or even greige tones.

• Wallpaper & Feature Walls: Rarely used in minimalist style, but a single textured wall in limewash, plaster finish, or matte stone effect can add quiet depth.

• Woodwork: Keep trims and skirting boards minimal in design. Natural or white-painted wood works beautifully.

Flooring

Choose flooring that enhances openness and flow.

• Engineered Wood: Pale oak, whitewashed, or light walnut are ideal for a minimalist style.

• Natural Flooring: Wool carpets or large jute or seagrass rugs add soft texture without visual clutter.

• LVT or Polished Concrete: In soft, matte tones for a contemporary minimalist look.

Lighting

Lighting should feel sculptural and functional.

• Style: Clean-lined pendant lights, recessed spotlights, and slim wall sconces.

• Material: Matte black, brushed metal, frosted glass, or white ceramics suit minimalist interiors.

• Placement: Keep it balanced and indirect where possible to enhance calm.

Furniture

Less furniture, better flow.

• Style: Streamlined silhouettes with no unnecessary detailing.

• Material: Natural wood, metal frames, stone, glass, or quality laminate in subtle tones.

• Size: Choose only essential pieces and keep them proportionate to the room.

Soft Furnishings

Soft furnishings in minimalist style interiors should be subtle and purposeful.

• Curtains & Blinds: Opt for linen or cotton in neutral tones. Roller blinds or floor-length sheer curtains work best.

• Patterns: Avoid busy prints. Stick to plain, textured, or lightly woven fabrics.

• Colour: Shades of white, oatmeal, soft grey, or earthy neutrals.

Art & Mirrors

Minimalist style encourages space between pieces.

• Art: Abstract line drawings, monochrome prints, or large-scale photography in black, white, or muted colours.

• Mirrors: Simple shapes—round or rectangular—with thin or frameless edges.

• Frames: Stick to wood, metal, or black or white frames with no ornate details.

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Minimalist Style Holistic Extras

To elevate the minimalist style beyond aesthetics, bring in holistic and mindful elements:

• Feng Shui: Position furniture to create open pathways and allow chi (energy) to flow freely. Avoid clutter under the bed or behind doors.

• Biophilic Touches: A single healthy plant (like a rubber plant or monstera) adds life without overwhelming the room.

• Aroma: Use essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, or sage to keep the space feeling clear and calm.

• Energy: Keep your home energetically light by letting in fresh air and using natural cleaning products.

• Mindful Living: Make room for stillness—leave one surface completely bare as a visual breath.

Stay tuned as we continue our series on interior design styles. Next up: Contemporary Style: How To Design A Contemporary Interior

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