Home decorating is always a fun time. You can have a
ball while rearranging
and reshuffling your decor and decorations. After all, what’s the point of
having somewhere to live if you can’t kick back and enjoy it? It makes it all
the more worthwhile when you can invite friends and family around to share your
space, share some food and drinks and share some laughter. But there’s a
challenge afoot if you want to go for the minimal aesthetic on a shoestring -
believe it or not a chic minimal look can sometimes cost a pretty penny. So
let’s take a look at how to create an affordable minimal vibe without breaking
the bank.
Elegant Window Dressings
Window dressings can make or break the minimal look.
For example, heavy floral drapes are a far cry from minimal. That’s why you
should buy
sheer curtains instead. Sheer curtains give a sleek appearance without the
feeling of clutter and chaos — precisely what you need for that minimal feel.
While you should stick to sheer curtains in your
living and sleeping quarters, consider something a bit different for the
bathroom. A nice white lace or similar window dressing in the bathroom is the
perfect choice — especially if you have a neutral palette offset with some
choice natural timber panelling.
The Trick with Decor
When going for the minimal approach the key is to
choose just the right amount of decor. For example, your couch or lounge suite
should have a single throw cushion right in the middle — and you’ll need to
pick the colour carefully. If you have a black leather suite then choose a
bright white or cream cushion to offset the dark colour — or vice versa if you
have light leather. Charcoals and greys can perfectly contrast with neutral
palettes as well, creating a smooth and smoky interior landscape.
To Art or not to Art?
One conundrum people opting for a minimal decoration
scheme often come up against is whether or not to hang art on the wall. The
answer is yes — you certainly can, but only one or two pieces. Having a wall
cluttered with artwork may work for some but it's definitely not a minimal
approach. The type of art matters as well. Classics and impressionism might be
beautiful, but they’re not exactly soft and quiet which is what you’re aiming
for here. Stick to minimalism, cubism, or even ultra-modern. Something
understated and quiet that will complement your sparse decorations and the
colour scheme is the way to go here. If you’re working with a budget here,
don’t fret. You don’t have to pop down to the nearest trendy gallery to buy an
original piece, prints work just as well.
Maintaining the Look
As well as some simple decoration tips and tricks
there’s a few things you can do to keep up the minimal vibe. Ideally you want
surfaces free of clutter
and chaos — so refrain from dumping your bags on the table when you get
home and kicking off your shoes into a corner. Have a space to hang your bags
and coats, preferably in a cupboard out of sight. It may be worth investing in
a shoe cupboard near the door as well so you can pop your footwear in it as
soon as you get home — this will also reduce the amount of sweeping and
vacuuming you’ll need to do too.
A Sparse Summary
Minimal interior design is possible, beginning with
choosing the right window dressings. Next, try a few choice pieces of decor,
aiming to offset the palette of the room. Art is okay, but only of a certain
style and only a small amount. Finally, maintain the look by keeping
your home free of clutter and mess.
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