9 Easy Steps to a Minimalist Modern Design Style

March 21, 2023
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Fearless DIY. Sharing building project tutorials and interior design tips. Let’s build something beautiful together. For more projects, design tips and behind the scenes, follow me @designtobuild.nicole

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What is all of the buzz around Minimalist Modern Design? A design style that has gained a lot of popularity in recent years with a focus on keeping things clean, simple, and functional. Think of it as decluttering your space and creating a sense of calmness and balance.

This distinct style often incorporates natural materials like wood and stone with modern elements like metal and glass to create a unique blend of old and new. You can find it in everything from home decor to architecture.

It’s easy to see why so many people are drawn to its simple elegance. So, let’s dive in and explore the secret behind creating a curated minimalist interior, and how you can incorporate it into your own space.

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What is Minimalist Modern?

Minimalist Modern has taken center stage to become one of the most popular interior design styles over the last few years. This modern interior design is a contemporary style that emphasizes simplicity, simple lines, sleek designs, and an overall minimalist look.

It’s all about keeping it simple. Because of its simplicity, this contemporary design style, Minimalist Modern, can be incorporated into any space easily.

This modern design takes the tried and true notion of “less is more” to a whole new level. It emphasizes functionality with an emphasis on clean lines, muted colors, and basic shapes. No extra fluff or unnecessary stuff here!

A minimalist modern design style room with a chair and a sideboard

Designing your home in this de-cluttered style relies on simplicity to create a subtle yet powerful visual appeal.

At its best, minimalist modern design can suggest sophistication, elegance, and even a touch of grandeur without showing off or being overwhelming!

It’s all about creating elegant spaces that feel inviting. Its modern design is perfect for those looking for an uncomplicated, yet sophisticated, way to express their style.

So where did this simple but stylish design style originate?

As we have done in each of these Interior Design Style Series posts, let’s dive into a little bit of the backstory behind minimalist modern design….

History of Minimalist Modern design

Although becoming popular in the early 20th century, Minimalist modern has its roots firmly in the past.

A reaction to previous ornate and more fussy designs, minimalist modern design centers around an emphasis on clean lines and neutral colors. This minimalist aesthetic focuses on the bare essentials.

This style of design, interestingly, is actually centuries old! There have been iterations of minimalism throughout different parts of the world since ancient times – particularly in Asia.

However,, it truly took off in the 1920s in Germany with the development of the Bauhaus school. From there it slowly spread across Europe and North America, slowly gaining traction until finally achieving its iconic status today.

With its simple materials and decluttered forms, minimalist modern design brings an air of sophistication to any space.

A large dining room table with several chairs around it

Similar to Mid Century Modern, it often features graphic shapes and geometric elements, with modern furniture made from rustic materials like hardwood and natural fibers.

With its combination of comfort and sophistication, this minimalist style has become increasingly popular in recent years – so if you’re searching for something that is both timeless and chic, then this could be the perfect look for you!

How to get the Minimalist Modern look in your home

Creating a minimalist Modern style doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive!

With my expert tips in mind and helpful guide for inspiration, you can easily achieve an effortless, yet elegant, look for your home that is sure to make any guest feel welcome!

Declutter

To get the look in your own home, start by decluttering and getting rid of any unnecessary items. Clutter is definitely not a design feature of this sleek style!

Avoid cluttering surfaces such as, countertops and tables with too many items. Keep only the essentials in plain sight.

A sparsely decorated room for a minimalist modern design

Establish open spaces to create an open and airy atmosphere.

Keeping your room looking neat and tidy means you get a head start on this simplistic but stylish design.

Clean lines and neutral colors

Minimalist interior design is all about achieving the balance between simplicity and sophistication so be sure not to overdo it with too many pieces or colors.

Keep a neutral color palette. Creating a monochromatic palette, will bring a sense of harmony and balance to the space.

Accessorize sparingly – a few pieces are all you need to create a stylish and organized space.

A chair, planter and shelves with knicknacks

When shopping for furniture and decor items, keep these design elements in mind:

  • Stick with clean lines
  • Neutral colors such as white, black, or gray
  • Look for functional furniture

Invest in one statement piece which could include anything from a modern chandelier to a unique artwork.

This will help create a focal point in your room without it becoming too cluttered.

Natural materials work best with Minimalist Modern designs

It’s also important to pay attention to the materials you’re using. Incorporating organic materials such as wood, stone, and glass can help bring an airy feel to any living space.

A dining area with modern stairs in the backdrop

Here are some different ways of achieving this:

  • Choosing a hardwood floor over carpet
  • DIY’ing or exposing a brick wall
  • Incorporate linen in the form of throw pillows or curtains

Once you’ve got the basics down, it’s time to start adding in those smaller details like decorative pillows and throws for added comfort.

You can also incorporate potted plants or wall art for a pop of color and texture.

Add lighting

Modern minimalist design works great in an open floor plan home. Although your home may have large windows, allowing natural lighting to flow in, never underestimate the power of good accent lighting. When creating a stylish minimalist modern design theme in your space, look for light fixtures that have an eye-catching design. Such as a sculptural pendant or a modern floor lamp.

A minimalist modern design styled room with a floor lamp, table and a chair

Using lamps, spotlights, and natural light sources, like windows, will create an inviting atmosphere.

With minimalism in mind, choose fixtures that are modern, sleek, and timeless for a look that will stand the test of time.

Minimize accessories

Don’t over-accessorize! It can take away from the modern look of your home.

Instead, choose a few statement pieces that complement the other elements in the room. Statement pieces add visual interest, texture and personality.

Some examples would be:

  • Bold artwork
  • Accent rugs
  • Large mirrors
  • Or even a unique coffee table

White walls as the backdrop will accentuate these focal points even more.

Use geometric shapes

Using circles and triangles, hexagons and other geometric shapes is a great way to add interest and project this design theme without adding too much clutter or color.

A chair with geometric circles for the backing, a tall tree and a rug

Geometric decor is often associated with minimalist design and can be used in furniture as well as wall art or simple accessories.

Add texture

Introduce texture into your home by using fabrics like linen, jute, or wool for throw pillows and rugs.

This will create visual interest without overwhelming the room’s aesthetic. Keeping it sleek, yet cozy!

Invest in quality pieces

With a minimalist design, the furniture you choose will be such a big part of the look that it’s worth investing in quality pieces that can last for years to come.

A large leather sofa with a tree next to it

Don’t forget plants!

Adding green tones in a room is always a must! Plants add life to any space and are especially well-suited for minimalist spaces since they are so versatile – from tall indoor trees to hanging succulents, there are many ways you can incorporate plants into your home without it feeling overwhelming or cluttered.

A very minimally decorated room with a chair, small table, plant and tile flooring. Leans towards a minimalist modern design

What is Minimalist Modern? – the wrap

Whether you’re looking to implement this minimalist home design in your dining room, kitchen, bathroom or throughout your entire home, this simple design style will bring a contemporary look to your home.

Is a minimalist-designed space your forte? If so, I hope this post has given you lots of inspiration and direction to start your minimalist Modern home revamp today!

For more design tips, DIY hacks, and styling advice don’t forget to check back for weekly updates to my blog.

Be sure to check back to my blog weekly for more style tips, home renovation inspiration, and DIY project ideas to help you transform your space into the perfect retreat.

Let’s go beyond the design to build something beautiful together!

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