Search Results for: minimalism

The Zen interior design style is one of the popular interior decorating styles. It evokes a calming and relaxing ambiance that is perfect in any home or space. Though little is known of the origins of the design style, many homeowners and designers prefer it in their homes. Various decorative elements have been created to help achieve the Zen design style. Posters were also designed as inspired by Zen. These prints feature plants, landscapes, and other earthy elements that will help in achieving the style in your homes. 

What is Zen?

Experts believe that the Zen design style is inspired by Buddhist principles. The principles are focused primarily on loving-kindness, calmness, and meditative and open attitudes. Based on the Japanese term for meditation, Zazen, the key elements of the style feature minimalism with a focus on harmony and balance. 

How to achieve Zen design style

Achieving the Zen interior design style may be challenging and four elements need to be considered to be successful with the decorating project. Creating interior design style is exciting especially when all the elements are added. 

The first element is the flow of energy. This means that all the other obstacles such as clutter should be removed to allow the energy to flow freely within the room. Having an open space is important and can be compared to a smooth flow of clear water. As such the rooms dissolve easily with each other. 

It is also of utmost importance to allow daylight to enter and artificial light that mimics the light from the sun. With these, the harmonious colors of the room will be revealed making the interior look more inviting and cozy. Think of adding colors that are close to the elements of nature such as bamboo green, stone gray, matte white, and other soft neutral colors. With the addition of poster art and fabric that have the said colors, you can easily get the job done correctly.

A simple mind is a clear mind. Creating a minimalist room interior can help you live a calm and restful life. Add storage areas to stock your belongings to avoid the accumulation of clutter. Hidden built-in cabinets, for instance, are perfect to store books, kitchenware, clothes, and others.

Lastly, the interior should also evoke versatility wherein every part of the room can be multifunctional to avoid it from being cramped and congested. One good example is a bed that can be transformed into a sofa during the daytime. 

Zen-inspired posters

Think of the walls as a blank canvas to design your wall art. The display of posters is one of the easiest and fastest ways to achieve the Zen interior design style. Many poster prints feature elements of nature and have captured the essence of Zen principles. These prints, when properly arranged on the walls can give an ambiance that is relaxing and comfortable. 

Posters that feature plants, mountains, and the sea are not only attractive. They also evoke a feeling of being at one with the surroundings. Displaying them in the living room can help in setting the mood, especially after coming from a stressful environment. 

Yoga and other light exercise enthusiasts will surely have a great time while enjoying the view displayed on their walls. Not only that these prints evoke beauty, but they will also keep the mind and body calm for better health. 

France is known for having the language of love and of course, its sumptuous cuisine. If you are planning to redecorate your restaurant or just owned a French restaurant, then there are a few things that you need to consider about decor and interior design. There are in fact many choices when it comes to decorating the interior. From being classic to a modern interior, the ultimate goal is to stay true to traditions and cooking recipes. 

Although France wants to maintain the traditional look and taste of its restaurants, the Westerns have adopted the concepts and contributed to the growth and popularity of French western cuisines.  Whether you keep with the tradition or have a mixed fusion, decorating a French restaurant will give an unforgettable experience.  Read on to know how to create a kick-ass French interior decor.

Visit French restaurants to research their composition

No need to act like James Bond and go spying on different French restaurants. Do the visits discretely and never flaunt your plans. Remember that they may be your competitors in the future. While doing the visits, familiarize yourself with their design but do not copy the entire interior. You need to know the flaws so that you may be able to improve them for your own restaurant. 

The prices on the menu, as well as the dishes, are vital for your success. You want to be affordable but not cheap as this may affect your brand. So be mindful of these factors. If you are planning to have a high-end restaurant, be inspired by expensive furnishing and elaborate dishes. For not so expensive image, mix up the menu a bit to attract more customers. 

Pick the right location

Location is everything. Never choose an area where your restaurant will not be noticed. A restaurant in business areas attracts more customers. A remote location like the mountainside or at the lakeside will give your customers magnificent views, far from an urban setting. 

Choose staff who knows French cuisine

Hire a chef who is fully knowledgeable about French cooking. They may even be required to learn some French words to enhance the theme of the restaurant. As such, they may likewise be prepared to answer any question from the customers. 

The restaurant appearance

Visiting some French restaurants may already have given you ideas about the interior and exterior appearances. Many believe that a French restaurant has to be complicated with motifs, gold colors, and ornaments. The truth is that the appearance of the interior depends on the time period you want to feature. If you aim for minimalism, then opt for simple moldings and ornaments. 

There are features that are considered to be the main components of a classic French restaurant design: cornice, arches, fireplace, moldings, ceiling and wall paintings, soft furniture, classic chandeliers, mirrors, curtains, golden polished frames, classic walls sconces, and vases with ornaments and flowers. 

If you want your customers to enjoy a real French restaurant vibe then lean towards decorating and enhancing the theme. Focus on French-style doors, candlelight ambiance, and floral aromas. 

Happy decorating!

Minimalist art can be anything that is simple or lacks variation. These are commonly seen in both residential and commercial areas. When it comes to minimalist art, it may not be as simple as many think. It was developed based on history where outstanding examples can be seen. 

Minimalism vs simplicity

Simplicity and minimalism are completely different from each other. Though both terms may coincide with each other but there are differences in terms of their characteristics and elements. By definition, simplicity is the state or quality of being simple. While minimalism is any design or style in which the simplest and fewest elements are used to give a maximum effect. 

Minimalist art can have several elements and traits that are utilized and loved by many homeowners and designers. It encompasses a variety of geometric shapes and patterns. The colors and shapes seen in the art are few. It is likewise common to see monochromatism, such as the use of the colors black, white, or gray. 

A brief history of minimalism

The minimalism movement started in the 1950s in New York during the time of resistance to abstract expressionism. The abstract is known to be filled with intense emotion and expressive feelings. Minimalism reached its peak during the 1960s. Just like any new item, minimalism has received a lot of criticism from the art community. However, the unique style was supported by many curators, collectors, and corporate purchasers. This is one of the main reasons why minimalism grew to what we know these days. 

Minimalist art as a decorative element

In decorating any space, minimalist art brings balance that allows each piece to shine. Minimalist artists focus more on the work itself without any complications or obstacles. Through time, designers and art enthusiasts began to experience artwork on new levels where material, light, and scale became part of its creative nature. 

Minimalism today

These days, minimalism is usually associated with the type of lifestyle where clutter is reduced. The movement to minimize clutter which transcends art and streamlined, bold and monochromatic art fits perfectly with this trendy approach. Pairing minimalist art with minimal architecture and furniture pieces is one of the best ways to enhance the design style. 

Why use a minimalist style

Artists who support and employ minimalism in their projects only have one thing in mind. They want their viewers to have an immediate, absolute, and purely visual response to their work. These would come from personal connections and experiences with their works. As such viewers engage with the color, form, space, and medium. 

Minimalist art and its influences

Minimalism has had a great impact on the history of modernism as it introduced a new way of looking, creating, and experiencing works of art. The style that focused more on simple and essential lines and forms is used in different fields, like graphic design, architecture, and interior design. 

Minimalist art for your home

The addition of minimalist art is one of the best ways to beautify them. These forms of art add color and life to any room. This art creates a fluid motion in any space. Minimalist art also adds a sense of calmness and serenity to every living space. 

While the food that you serve is the main attraction of your restaurant, the design will give a welcoming ambiance that will help boost your business. The overall appearance of your restaurant is of utmost importance to attract more customers and ensure their loyalty. Here are some tips on how to transform the appearance of your restaurant and increase your revenue.

Define your style, concept, and theme

There is a big difference between entrepreneurs who are starting with their restaurant business and those who already have one. Start with an idea and work your way through to the decoration. For, instance, a Japanese-themed restaurant focuses more on simplicity, minimalism, and traditional accents. You may want to add natural elements, such as wood, bamboo, and plants will enhance the theme and design. Italian restaurants are bolder with red and white checkered tablecloths and rustic walls.

Captivating entrance

If your restaurant is located in an area with heavy foot traffic, then you need to do something to invite them. In addition to the impressive interior, decorating the entrance is vital to increase the number of your customers. Make the entrance pop with murals or neon signages. Use glass so that passers-by can take a peek at the interior. Bold colors can catch the attention of the neighborhood, especially those who are looking for a place to dine. 

Choose the right colors

Colors are known to convey messages and emotions. In color psychology, various colors have their effects on room atmosphere and overall design. Ask experts for their recommended colors according to the theme and concept. The best colors for the walls of the restaurants are shades of red, brown, green, orange, yellow, blue, and purple. Be strategic in adding them so that they will not become an eye-sore. You may have seen that fast food restaurants use shades of red or orange as these hues can stimulate the appetite and make food look more sumptuous. Fine dining restaurants are quite different and the use of earth tones like browns promotes a relaxing and calming vibe. 

Focus on the design layout

The layout of the restaurant is important to create the right ambiance. Start with the layout of tables and chairs as this can help create a cozy and welcoming vibe. If you have a bar, check out the stools and bar table that you will add. The colors and style must blend with the overall theme and concept. If you are planning to create a sports bar or already have one, make the television the center of attention. Add sports memorabilia and posters to enhance the restaurant theme. Add games like football, darts, or pool to attract more customers. 

Use the right lighting

Light can set a mood that cannot be achieved by any other decor. When designing restaurants, properly plan the lighting so that you will successfully achieve the perfect atmosphere. Red lighting can attract more customers and stimulate hunger. Adding candles and diffuse lighting can add a romantic and intimate vibe. 

Good aroma, good vibe

The smell also has a great impact on the restaurant atmosphere. Invest in scented candles as these may have dual purposes. In addition to making the room smell enticing, candles can add a romantic vibe. The smell of freshly ground coffee beans can likewise be a huge come-on to customers, especially if you have a coffee shop. 

Use music and ambient sounds

A restaurant is not just about the taste and smell of food. You may want to create a more comfortable and inviting mood with music and ambient sounds. You may choose from a wide range of music and sound genre depending on the concept and theme of your restaurant. 

Focus on details

A good restaurant interior focus on the importance of details. If you are short on space, add elements that will create a visually larger room. Examples are mirrors, indoor plants, folding tables, and bar stools.

Over the years, art has been part of our lives. It helps us improve and express ourselves, as well as to make any space look wonderful. Abstract art is one of the styles that have been loved by many enthusiasts. There are many ways to describe them and the different designs can make a total transformation to your space. But when and where did it all begin? Read on to learn more about the history of abstract art and how it evolved through these years. 

Eastern Europe

History tells us that abstract art was born at the start of the 20th century. During that period, the platform was mostly about fauvism, cubism, and figurative expressionism. As a result, abstract art is known for its freedom use of color, shapes, and the subject. The subject can be anything, from geometric shapes to humans, abstract art can be anything. The goal is to highlight the form through experimentation with colors. This exhibits the freedom of the artist to be flexible from the strict rules of creating art. 

Though the exact origin of abstract art is not that clear, there are different artists who created their own styles using abstract art. Each can be determined with their respective periods. As agreed by many experts, abstract art started around 1910. This can be supported by the first abstract watercolor by Vassily Kandinsky. The artist was a Russian painter who was associated with the avant-garde movement in Eastern Europe. He was also the first painter who used no formal composition. 

The two ideas in abstract art

There are two ideas when it comes to abstract art: rationality and expressiveness. Abstract art aims for rationality and an independent order from external reality. It is also the development of the symbolic function of color, the rhythm of forms, and their independence from a subject. For instance, artists like Kandinsky and Kupka find a wide range of emotions with the use of colors. As such, the colors they use have effects on the viewers, as if the art itself is trying to communicate. 

The types of abstract art

Abstract art is not just about freedom of expression. In fact, there are different types or divisions. Kandinsky represented Lyrical Abstraction in which the interests focused on the power of emotions and the impact of anger on humans. Malevitch represented Suprematism where forms and colors are left to speak for themselves. Geometric Abstract Art was represented by Piet Mondrian with his use of squares, primary colors, and black lines. The development of Orphism was because of the Delaunays who used sharp colors and rounded shapes to cover the whole canvas. 

The abstract expressionism movement

The new abstract art movement started in the 1940s and 1950s. This new movement was started by the Americans after the Second World War. Artists like Jackson Pollock and Willem de Kooning made significant contributions to the development of the movement. The paintings of Pollock are marked by the vigorous movement of the painter creating splashes. 

From the 1960s, there emerged new trends: Optical Art and Minimalism. Optical Art was originated by Victor Vasarely and focused more on optical effects by playing with colors, shape, and light. Simultaneously, minimal art emerged that was started by artists like Sol LeWitt, Robert Morris, and Dan Flavin.

It seems like Scandinavian Design is taking the world like a storm. From the design of the furniture to the overall appearance of homes, the design style has been employed by many homeowners and designers. Not only that the style is about beauty, but the Scandinavian design style is also about functionality. Read on to learn more about Scandinavian design, its origins, and its characteristics. 

A brief history of the Scandinavian design

Scandinavian design is the name of the movement that is composed of designers, products, and companies. The design style is characterized by simplicity, minimalism, and functionality This emerged at the start of the 20th century that was developed in the 1950s from the Scandinavian countries, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden. 

During the period between the two World Wars, European designers shared similar interests in modernity and innovation in design. As such, they created a new trend where the outcomes are the results of new industrial technologies. 

With the emergence of creativity and industrialization, the Scandinavian design focused more on the creation of shapes with delicate profiles, slight inclinations, and curves in creating light, soft, and flowing features. 

Since 1930, many individuals have contributed a lot to the development of the movement. The popular names behind the success of the Scandinavian design style are Alvar Aalto, Arne Jacobsen, Borge Mogensen, Hans J. Wegner, Verner Panton, Poul Henningsen, and Maija Isola. They played significant roles in creating the “golden period of Scandinavian design.”

The Scandinavian design is not limited to furniture, interior design, and household products. The concept is also applied to consumer electronics, mobile phones, and automobiles. It is common to see lighter colors, simple forms, and open-plan spaces. Rooms may also have multi-purposes. For example, the appearance of the dining room may not only be used for special events and family dinners. The open-plan and flexible spaces could give the dining room other activities other than the ones already mentioned. 

Characteristics of Scandinavian design

To summarize what Scandinavian design is all about, it can be described in two words: minimalism and functionality. Below are the characteristics of the Scandinavian design that you can use in your homes:

• White walls – this can be the starting point of Scandinavian style, simple and clean. 
• Neutral color palette – achieve the Scandinavian look with shades of white, gray, and black. These three colors are important for creating a cohesive and minimalist look.
• Pops of color – adding a colorful decor or two can still create a Scandinavian style making it more fun and exciting. 
• Natural materials – Scandinavians are very much inclined with nature and as such, natural materials are common in the design style. Examples are wood, stone, concrete, tile, brick, plants, and others. 
• Simple and non-fussy layouts – Scandinavian homes also are simple, clutter-free, and have cohesive interiors that emphasize elegant minimalist aesthetics. 

Final thoughts

As people stay in their homes more these days, it is no surprise that the Scandinavian design style is dominating the construction and design industries. It has a natural beauty that has a significant impact on the total well-being of the person. 

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. 

The industrial interior design style is one of the appealing styles that features metal and open space. A wonderful design style that incorporates many elements of the Scandinavian hygge interior design. Read on to learn more about this design style and why it is preferred by many homeowners and designers.

Industrial Interior Design – what is it?

The industrial design style is inspired by the repurposed factories during the Industrial Revolution. It encompasses exposed architectural elements such as pipes, bricks, concrete, and is combined with the philosophy of the minimalist design. In addition to these, the design is also known for open floor plans and a cool neutral color palette. 

Although it is based on minimalist style, there is also the use of different rustic materials in furniture pieces and lighting accents. Many modern homes these days use a combination of industrial, mid-century modern, and farmhouse style to create cozy rooms throughout the entire home. 

How it began

Although industrial design style is regarded as modern, it still has its origins during the Industrial Revolution. It can be recalled that during that period, giant factories were built to store large machinery.

The First Industrial Revolution in the 1760s marked the beginning of mass production in urban Europe and the United States. Factories were the start of industrial architecture and were characterized by large, grid-paned windows to allow the entry of fresh air and natural light, lofts, open floor plans, and exposed brick walls. 

The Second Industrial Revolution in the 1870s  led to the construction of larger factories as businesses consolidated operations under one roof. Eventually, these factories required stronger construction materials, like concrete and steel. These materials were seen exposed in many instances. 

In the 2000s, New York and other urban areas were facing housing shortages. As such, the factories during the Industrial Revolutions were converted into industrial loft apartments with open floor plans. The selling points are the exposed materials and large windows. 

Minimalism and hygge also embraced the concepts of industrial design style. Repurposed materials were seen to coincide with the clean, straight lines that are common in the modern and minimalist design style. Many urban-styled homes are generally characterized by open plans, large windows, and neutral palettes, which are also common in Scandinavian homes. 

Characteristics of Industrial design style

Here are the characteristics of the Industrial design style that you will surely adore:

• The industrial design style uses neutral colors such as shades of white, gray, blacks, and brown. 
• Large natural windows are also common to allow the entry of natural light. 
• The open floor plan is also common as well as high ceilings, exposed brick, concrete floors, industrial pipes, and ductwork. 
• Repurposed materials are also important such as repurposed dining tables that will bring natural elements into the metal-heavy materials. 
• Edison bulbs that are hanging in singles or in a decorative group such as in a chandelier are also common elements. Use large metal domes, a pendant light, or floor lamps if you prefer something less bare. 
• Graphic lines can be seen in window panes, bar stools, and others. 
• Fabrics such as weathered leather or linen are added to furniture and accents, creating a cozy feel.