Being Minimalist When You Like Stuff
I am an architectural design writer who often focuses on how environment can affect behavior. Before consulting privately, I received my MA in writing and ran a design boutique in Los Angeles.
I am an architectural design writer who often focuses on how environment... More »
One of life's contradictions are those who fall into the category of loving minimalism and loving their things.
There is such an aesthetic draw of the dwelling that is so inherently beautiful or is so conscientiously thought out that it can stand alone. Like the Frenchwoman at the market, unadorned, no make up, shopping basket on the crook of her arm, who seems to say I need nothing else to be beautiful. Whether it be a 200-square-foot cottage that my uncle lives in, a centuries-old apartment in Prague, or a mod in a high rise, minimalism can work for us all, even those who love to accumulate.
It comes down to four simple principles:
a. organize yourself
b. store where the everyday eye can't see
c. think continuity through color
d. consider what and how you accumulate
The entire point might be: minimalism doesn't mean getting rid of everything or diminishing your dwelling's personality--it means getting back to simple pleasures, going for quality, and living conscientiously.
There is such an aesthetic draw of the dwelling that is so inherently beautiful or is so conscientiously thought out that it can stand alone. Like the Frenchwoman at the market, unadorned, no make up, shopping basket on the crook of her arm, who seems to say I need nothing else to be beautiful. Whether it be a 200-square-foot cottage that my uncle lives in, a centuries-old apartment in Prague, or a mod in a high rise, minimalism can work for us all, even those who love to accumulate.
It comes down to four simple principles:
a. organize yourself
b. store where the everyday eye can't see
c. think continuity through color
d. consider what and how you accumulate
The entire point might be: minimalism doesn't mean getting rid of everything or diminishing your dwelling's personality--it means getting back to simple pleasures, going for quality, and living conscientiously.
|
by Gast Architects
»
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
|
| Keeping to a monochromatic color scheme suggests a simplicity and continuity. Add splashes of color, add texture, but add them as accents. |
Often a pared down look simply means massive thought given to the organization of things. Og Mandino knew. When personalized systems are put into action, and everything has a legitimate, logical place, a dwelling seems to iron itself out and flow.
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
Yes. Storage, storage, storage is key when you like your things but don't want to see them.
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
This photo is unfortunately fuzzy, but I had to include it as an example of how an innovative blend of building materials compensates for decorative pieces. This space is warm and anything but boring, but is free from the clutter of accumulation.
| Another example of building materials aiding a minimalist look by supplying the visual interest and personality. Love the brick. Love it. |
| Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
|
| This is the busiest room of this photo series. The room looks very lived in. Yet it remains uncomplicated by the simple color palate, the logical spacing of furniture, and pared down details like simplified window dressings and wall hangings. |
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
Here is an example of both building materials giving that visual interest and individuality, and a highly functional collection that doesn't add clutter.
| Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
|
| Minimalism doesn't mean getting rid of your stuff. It means deciding what to collect, and grouping them together. Enjoy the balance of collection and calm blank space. |
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
Yes, enjoy your things. Know how to display and organize them.
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
This collection of books inserts discreetly into the corner of the room.
| Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
|
| And, ah, this much-loved photo. I myself have probably clicked on it 100 times. A beautiful example of accumulation and sparseness. With all the coziness life can offer. |
And, yes, you can claim minimalism even with children. Parenthood just may be the most difficult situation in which to remain pared down and organized. I think it comes down to two main principles: a) be thoughtful about what you accumulate (which teaches a good lesson anyway), and b) organize montessori-like each category of toy in individual open bins where children can get in and put back on their own. (This has been a professional specialty--email me at txranchgirl@gmail for more details.)
Comments
olldbobbi I would love to know how a minimalist stores all the necessary kitchen gadgets when their drawers and cabinets are full! I can't stand to see them "out" but they need to be ready at hand. On a tight budget, of course.....
16 months ago · Like
Ideabook updated on Sept. 7, 2009.
What are you working on?
News From Our Partners
Latest Ideabooks
People found the photos in this ideabook after searching for:
View over a million photos:
