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The minimalist interior design style is one of our favorites. It has the beauty and appeal that can give your freedom. Minimalism can be defined as a tool that assists you in finding the best with many opportunities available. The removal of any distraction so that one can focus on the more important things is the highlight of the minimalist interior design style. Being a minimalist is different from being simple. Minimalism means promoting the things that we value most and excluding the others that may cause distractions. 

What really is minimalism?

In the world of art and design, minimalism is expressed in a way that encompasses even beyond the social, geographical, and political divisions. The design style is very similar to modern interior design that involves only the bare essentials. As such, any living space will have a simple and uncluttered look. The minimalist design style is characterized by simplicity, clean lines, and a monochromatic palette with a few colors only used as accents. The interior also has an open floor plan, great lighting, functional furniture, and a handful of essentials. 

A brief history of minimalism

Minimalism is most commonly associated with the Western art movement that started in the 1950s. The movement focused on the idea that “art should have its own reality and not be an imitation of some other thing”. The style is influenced by many things such as abstract expressionism. However, minimalism focused more on geometric shapes, subtle colors, and the phrase “less is more”. 

The Japanese concept of wabi-sabi also influenced minimalism. The concept is all about imperfection and impermanence. Japanese minimalism uses clean lines, neutral tones, carefully placed tatami mats, and natural materials. In fact, many celebrity homes use the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi. 

The minimalist interior design style that we know today has a mixture of characteristics. Probably because of the different influences it had over the years. But the core concept of simplicity, clean lines, neutral tones, and unclutteredness never disappears. 

The Scandinavian decor and design style is also influenced by minimalism. It is common for Scandinavian homes to have light wood, dried greenery, and clean lines. 

Achieve the minimalist interior design style in your home

Since your home has different rooms, you can easily incorporate the design style by following some tips. For instance, the living room can look perfect with white or neutral walls, uncluttered coffee tables, soft colors, geometric patterns, and plants. These can help achieve an inviting and cozy atmosphere especially with lots of natural light getting in. For the dining room, the colors should likewise be simple. Choose neutral or black accents along with ceramic dinnerware in light hues to complete the view. 

The bedroom can be your sanctuary and should have an appearance that is relaxing and comfortable. It is all about creating a tranquil environment with the use of minimalist concepts. Use blankets and pillows in similar tones as well as a nightstand that appears simple. Be sure that they blend into the overall appearance of the room. 

Final thoughts

Decorating and styling your home is not a joke. It means that you have to be creative in your own way. The minimalist interior design style is not that hard to achieve. All you need to do is to incorporate the core concept of the style into your home and you will have the interior design of your dreams. 

You will be surprised that home decorating did not start recently. In fact, evidence shows that cave dwellers painted pictures on their walls. However, this came into reality in the 18th century when items became affordable for households. But before that, only the noble and the very rich can afford home decorating. This can be seen through the elegant hand-made furniture and ornate draperies. During those times, decorating the homes was a status symbol. 

Ancient Rome home decorating

The Romans were known to have advanced civilizations in which renowned architecture was built. They also enjoyed displaying their wealth through their homes and lifestyles. The houses they have and halls were decorated lavishly with murals and mosaic designs on the floor. The furniture pieces were personalized to meet their needs. It is also common to see tables and chairs have clawed feet. 

The Renaissance Design

Carpets were known to be owned by wealthy individuals because of the materials and overall design available. Since these decors were expensive, they were not placed on the floors. Instead, they were hung on walls over tables. Wealthy families also hung tapestries on their walls. The floors were covered with rushes or reeds and sprinkled with fragrant herbs. It is also common for the rich in England to use four-post beds as the curtains kept them from the cold weather. 

Elegant room appearance

During the early 18th century, there was an increase in international trade and new educational opportunities. This marked the start of consumerism. Various home decors and furniture pieces, such as wallpaper, rugs, and even pianos became affordable and available to the common people. Many rooms were painted in light colors, with floral prints on wallpapers, patterned carpets, and upholstered furniture pieces. Books were also displayed on shelves as they were still expensive during those times. 

Mass production of decors and furnishings

In the 19th century came the rise of mass production. As such, more people are able to afford home decors to make their homes beautiful. Velvet wallpapers came to popularity and these were usually seen in green and burgundy. Furniture pieces were solid but still offers comfort. They were usually made from oak or mahogany. They were likewise upholstered similar to the patterns of the wallpapers. 

Modernism

The end of World War 2 marked the rise of the Renaissance once again. That is because of home decorations. The focus was then on modernism rather than the traditional. Households in America hosted parties in which they also flaunted their shiny home appliances as part of their home decor. In addition to these, households also were filled with plastic melamine dinnerware as well as coffee tables. 

The Classes 

The home decoration was originally seen in the household of nobles and wealthy families. However, with the rise of the middle classes in the 18th century, ordinary people were able to afford simple and less ornate decors and furnishings. Homes were comprised of basic stools, tables, and benches. Families slept on mattresses that were filled with straw and thistledown. Houses focused more on function and meeting the basic needs of the dwellers instead of the aesthetics. 

Carbon dioxide emissions and the accumulation of plastics are the biggest problems we are facing these days. Not all homeowners can afford solar panels to conserve energy. However, there are small and simple ways that are efficient and can make your home into an eco-friendly place. 

Use LED light bulbs

Changing your regular light bulbs with LED lights can make a big difference to your home. LED bulbs are far more efficient than regular ones. They consume less electricity but emit the same or even better lumens. They are also more durable, eco-friendly, and can help you save money on electricity. 

Get recycling bin and compost bin

Recycling bins are very helpful when you are segregating glass bottles, jars, bottles, and other objects. Compost bins, on the other hand, will help you discard leftovers and at the same time will give you free fertilizer that you can use in your garden. You can improvise your own compost bin if you want to save money. You can also opt to buy commercially available compost bins. These are designed to be neat, tidy, and odor-free.

Plant herbs and spices

Plant your own herb and spices garden. The good thing about these plants is that they don’t take much space and can be done in small pots. Do this on the patio or even provide a small spot in your home. You can then use the herbs and spices that you have for your favorite dishes in addition to making your home eco-friendly. 

Plants as decors

Indoor plants are not only effective in improving indoor air quality. They can also make your home look vibrant and refreshing. Just don’t forget to give them their needs, such as sunlight and water. 

Add window treatments

Curtains and blinds are efficient insulators. As such, the temperature inside your home can be regulated without the use of air conditioners, thus saving electricity. In addition to these, your home will even look lovelier with attractive curtains or blinds. 

Use the kitchen smartly

Be smart in using kitchen appliances. For instance, instead of using a pod coffee maker, use a drip coffee maker. The plastic capsules may just add to the pollution. With drip coffee makers, all you need are coffee grounds. Moreover, it is smart to plan your meals so that the use of stoves will be cost-efficient. 

Use homemade natural cleaning products

Natural cleaning products are effective as those that are bought in the stores. Moreover, they do not contain any harmful chemicals which are important especially if you have kids at home. You can make your own cleaning agents by using vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice. 

DIY instead of buying new items

Why buy new items when you can create your own. DIY items will even unleash your creativity. The good thing about this project is that you can do this with your family. Look at different websites, magazines, or books for inspiration. You can recycle old items in your home and use them to create new products. For sure, your children will have a great time doing this project with you. At the same time, you will also be saving money for other projects or expenses. 

Studies have shown that many happy employees are the key to make any business or organization successful. They are the ones who are creative, productive, and tend to go an extra mile. As such, employees need a working environment that will stimulate their mind and body to become productive. A harmonious office design is what everyone needs to stay happy with their work.

Easy tips to add harmony in the office

Creating a harmonious office interior is easy to achieve. With a little imagination and creativity as well as some inspiration, you will be able to come up with a compelling design that everyone will love. 

Clean and comfortable office

It is always conducive to work in a clean and beautiful looking office room. Time to remove all the clutter and unusable equipment. Remember that the office is not a storage area. Check all the light bulbs and replace those that are defective. LED lights are recommended to save energy without sacrificing the quality of light needed while working. Buy new ergonomic furniture pieces, indoor plants, snacks, and coffee. Add accents on the walls like posters and art. 

Open doors

Open door design in the office ensures transparency between the workers and heads. This also prevents or limits the conflict between employees. Managers are also recommended to have open communication with their subordinates. Open door office design also encourages friendly communication among the workers. 

Recreational areas

Add a room where employees can enjoy a little exercise or relax before doing some tasks. Studies also have shown that recreational games and sports can lead to better rapport and team management. Moreover, some employees may need to have a quiet time before going to war. This will minimize stress and make the employees more focused at work.

Personalized work areas

Allow the employees to arrange and decorate their work areas according to their preferences. Let them choose the standing adjustable desk, office chair, keyboard, and mouse for their computers. These would give them a sense of pride and belongingness to the company.

Indoor plants

Plants provide various benefits, both to mental and physical health. This has also been supported by science. In addition to these, the natural colors can also create a comfortable and relaxing room environment to help the employees become more productive. 

Team building activities

It is also important for employees to have a break and have fun. Team building activities may be in different forms, such as celebrating an employee’s birthday or a planned and structured workshop for them to improve in their roles in the office. 

Think out-of-the-box

Provide non conventional benefits for the employees such as unlimited day offs. The goal is to accomplish the tasks assigned and not to extend time everything at work. 

Final thoughts

The office is not a prison for employees and the workers are not slaves. A conducive office environment has been proven to be effective to make the workers become more focused and productive. Designing and decorating the office need not be that complicated and should not always break the company’s funds. Choose the appropriate theme for the office that will make the rooms fit for working. Decorating the walls with posters is one of the fastest and easiest ways to make the office look more appealing and functional. 

It is a fact that the kitchen is the busiest room in the house. In addition to meal preparations, many homeowners also use the room to watch their favorite television shows, receive guests, and dining. Decorating it with kitchen prints is just like decorating the other rooms of the house with various poster designs.

In artdesign, we have a wide range of kitchen prints that can help in making the kitchen more attractive and interesting. Let us not limit ourselves with food posters as the kitchen walls can be decorated with various kitchen prints. 

Decorating the kitchen with prints

The kitchen can be in different creative ways. In many instances, decorating the walls with food posters is one of the most common and easiest ways to make the kitchen vibrant and lively. It is common to see simple and plain paint in the kitchen. This makes it dull and boring. However, with the addition of wall decors, such as posters and other prints, you will have a lively looking wall that can be compared with the walls of the bedroom or living room. 

Fun and exciting kitchen prints

These days, the availability of modern printing technology, numerous designs are readily available to be displayed on the kitchen walls. 

If you are into a healthy lifestyle like eating healthy food and engaging in sport, you can display art that can help your personal development and success. These posters can also be of great influence to the lifestyle of your family and friends. Such posters can motivate and inspire you to pursue a healthy lifestyle. Informative posters such as food pyramids or caloric amounts of various foods are recommended. 

Food posters with inspirational or motivational quotes can also create a lovely kitchen. Posters can personalize the kitchen. They can also reflect your character and interests. In addition to these, posters of fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and other foods can add color to the room. 

Food posters also come in different appearances or themes. Black and white posters can create a sophisticated and elegant kitchen appearance. Art prints and abstract art can make a total kitchen transformation. With the images and vibrant colors, these posters can create a fun and exciting vibe. 

There are millions of coffee lovers around the globe. Besides the different varieties of coffee that you love, many homeowners prefer to display items that can be ordered from coffee shops. Examples are a cup of espresso, cappuccino, or latte. Add posters of breads and pastries such as croissants, muffins, cakes, and cookies. 

Typography and quotes posters can also complete your day. Many of these posters have motivational or inspirational messages that could help in pursuing your tasks. Moreover, these posters also come in different designs that can create a theme in your kitchen. Examples are black and white and neon prints. 

Final Thoughts

Though the display of posters itself can make a big difference to the kitchen, it is also advised to be meticulous in choosing the poster design. It is recommended to know the fashion trends and how the prints will look with the current color scheme of your kitchen. Ask your family for their opinion as they may also have their preferences in choosing kitchen prints.