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<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhat is minimalist interior design?<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n At its core, minimalist interior design promotes the beauty inherent in simplicity. Think uncluttered design, scaled back with minimal materials and no structural obtrusions or visual overwhelm. Colors are typically neutral or monochromatic. Wood, glass, concrete and steel are popular material choices, because of their ability to play a supporting role in design, while amplifying the overall sense of space. <\/p>\n\n\n\n As an interior design movement, minimalism gained traction shortly after WWII, born in part out of pragmatism because of limited availability of some building materials. Architects and designers utilized what materials were available in their designs efficiently. The bare-bones approach focuses on openness in space and the flow of light and air. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Hinging on the concept of \u201cless is more\u201d, many of the elements of minimalism are timeless and trendless, blending nicely into modern homeowner priorities, including promotion of health and wellness at home. <\/p>\n\n\n\n What are some basic principles of minimalism?<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n Living simply is the cornerstone of minimalist interior design. Size of the home does not matter, but a focus on function does, as does a priority for decorative restraint. It comes down to developing a design strategy that isn\u2019t overwhelming to the eye, which in turn creates calm. <\/p>\n\n\n\n One of the challenges with minimalist interior design is that it can be sterile or austere, but with strategic placement of items and a consciousness of how they blend to create balance and form in a space, warmth can be introduced to counter the sterility. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThe epitome of minimalist design is simplicity and clean lines. You\u2019ll often see monochromatic finishes and spaces that are free from clutter. Everything brought into space is intentional and serves a purpose,\u201d says interior designer Molly Valdez of Molly Valdez Studio<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u00b7 At its basic level, minimalist interior design pares down to all but essentials. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u00b7 Color impressions are muted, with any variation in color introduced with accents. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u00b7 Rooms typically feature seamless sightlines with lots of hidden storage. This allows for what design elements are present to be more prominent. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u00b7 Design and d\u00e9cor elements must add value to the space, either functionally, aesthetically, or both. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u00b7 Typically, in a minimalist design, there is an open floor plan, with ample windows. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u00b7 Form is sculptural to add visual interest without interrupting the flow. For example, furniture or d\u00e9cor might be tubular, or curved. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u00b7 Walls are usually sparsely decorated, but what is present provides either pops of color or intentional focal points to divert the eye in certain directions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Floors tend to be bare, with features on the floor itself adding to the d\u00e9cor, such as wide wooden planks or textured or polished concrete. A modest throw rug might partially cover the floor, as an accent piece.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n Minimalist d\u00e9cor ideas for the kitchen<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n For homeowners wishing to embrace minimalism, it makes sense to start with the kitchen. The kitchen is the heart of the home, so it plays a key role in d\u00e9cor tone. Similarly, the kitchen is the most utilitarian space with lots of tools- so clutter can happen easily without proper planning. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Valdez advises the clever use of paneling for \u201cappliances and ventilation to match the cabinetry or concealing them within the cabinetry so they don’t distract the eye.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cIf appliances will be visible, they should be installed flush with the cabinetry to maintain a sleek plane,\u201d she says. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Pay attention to selection of cabinetry door fronts and hardware choices. Although subtle, they can add unwanted detail into a minimalist scheme. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cCabinetry construction should be frameless so reveals between doors and drawers are minimal. Opt for touch-latch hardware on doors and drawers instead of knobs and pulls,\u201d says Valdez. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Slab or flat cabinet styles are sleek, so help promote sightlines. Plumbing and light fixtures should be simple and have monochromatic finishes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Internal cabinetry storage and organization is paramount, \u201cso that everything has its place and countertops don’t become a collect-all,\u201d says Valdez. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n