Space, light and order, that's what a man needs to live (Le Corbusier). This is the idea that underlies the concept of contemporary minimalism, according to which an airy space, sprinkled only with useful things and aesthetically perfected, becomes an oasis of relaxation.
An superfluous interior acquires this dimension only when everything has been carefully planned in detail. Moreover, it will require a minimum of maintenance and effort. These principles are found in the German school of architecture and applied arts Bauhaus, Japanese interiors and Shaker art.
In minimalist design, social noise, the avalanche of information and the pressure of daily tasks are considered tiring enough, so the dwelling becomes a point of psychological and emotional rebalancing. Here one should be able to rest and here they can recalibrate their senses, training them in the subtle games that truly give quality to life.
Minimalism places forms of art devoid of functionality and comfort as useless decorations, and the fluidity of the layout makes few concessions in profiling the decor – a few good books, a declarative lighting fixture, a quality sofa.
Visual perception has the ability to evaluate the texture of a rug, the scent of precious wood and the feeling of freshness emanating from a clean bathroom – all these become added values for rooms in minimalist design.
By simplifying the space of an interior, getting rid of everything you don't use, you will suddenly feel lighter. Refuse anything that doesn't work easily. Ask a specialist to hide even the last electrical wire in a skirting board, under the parquet or in a special strip.
Change taps that don't close properly, a shower cubicle that is too narrow, an unsuitable latch – overcome these obstacles that poison your daily life, says Domique Loreau, author of the book The Art of Simplicity.
The quality of materials creates the idea of permanent comfort. To this end, get rid of preconceived notions that say certain things are only meant for certain people – for example, a cashmere blanket is more visually impactful than any other blankets. In addition, it will look impeccable for many years and is warmer than anything else.
The same Domique Loreau points out: When it comes to colors, opt for a monochromatic world. Black, white and gray are at the same time the absence and fusion of all colors. They bring an extreme simplicity style, as if all the surplus had been distilled.
A room gains warmth if it is decorated with organic materials, full of texture wood, cork, leather.
True minimalism may seem more expensive at first glance – a wooden object is more expensive than a few plastic decorations – but adopting a minimalist lifestyle means living longer.
Only by creating an environment in line with our deepest aspirations can we consciously prepare the connection that exists between our inner self and our outer self.
