In diluted style minimalism there is a magical aspect that is somewhat calming and soothing. It does not demand your full attention as other more orthodox styles may with their gaudi vendusions. They do ask for you to take a full deep breath without fear in a world of noise, clutter and distraction. The moment you enter a minimalist home you THE moment you arrive—this is more than a trend, it’s simply a way of life for those who abide in it—a quiet philosophy of living with less and ensuring everything around you has a meaningful presence.
Minimalism is not about taking away warmth or soul, but rather revealing it. Everything, every object and corner has significance, intention, contours and rests. There is nothing on tabletop surfaces and you will not find decorated augmented walls that are meant to be filled with forgettable objects. There are things, and in fact the owners may simply not be residual style it’s more about what it means and the comfort it evokes. Similar to poetry which you can touch, we also recognize there is a silence of space between words, and while silence and space do indeed reside on the page, they remain just as important to what is on the page.
Light moves freely and dances happily here and bounces or falls gently on all of the unburdened surfaces and opens the room into a breath. Space is not empty, it is alive—it’s a refuge for finding the balance of movement and stillness. The stillness envelops you and asks you to slow down, be present and simply be.
Of course minimalist design also delights in what is NOT there, but rather importantly what is made available. The beauty of good design where simplicity prevails/resounds/prosperous is its emphasis on the craft rather than trends, and privilege quality rather than quantity. Think of a wooden table, honest and with its grain, and a couch that invites you to settle into after an intense day with its gentle and neutral suited blushing. These are all markers of a home- home that shields us, and often holds us, a home that nurtures.
Minimalist homes do more than simply exist with a simple style, minimalism highlights a significant truth; places are with the idea that they are to serve us not consume us.They allow us to first stop, and when one is as throttled as one can be; stop, think, and recover. It is here, in the sparse stillness, that creativity and connection happens- it is also where peace hums quietly, under the noise.
And, there is such beauty in how minimalism interacts with the earth. Though less does equal less, fewer favourites, with intentional thought, mean less waste and more respect-for us, and, for the earth. So, not just beautiful; but loving and ethical.
If one exists in this way, they enjoy benefits that exceed minimalism. Cleaning is lighter, choices are clearer and around feels manageable and joyous. And, though not a medical term, please do not be surprised if many find minimalism lifts them from storms, and happiness is all it accommodates.
A minimalist home, the blank corner is a blank page waiting for new stories. There is not emptiness, only a space for like minded intentions- a reminder of how to balance living, making space more so within than around.
So here is a toast to minimalist homes- the wheeze in the storm and the soft reminder that less is sometimes just enough. They are a gesture to enjoy the small moments, to practice stillness, and make more space within; as well as, revolving around us.
For all these reasons humble homes deserve a tender and quiet love.
