The concept of minimalist décor is based on the premise that ‘less is more’, and is characterised by simple, uncluttered spaces, clean lines and neutral colour schemes. Minimalism seeks to optimise natural light, favouring open plan living space and using clean, sleek lines and stylish storage solutions. Looking ahead to 2023, ‘warm minimalism’ is a trend on the rise. Fusing the intention of minimalism with a softer, cosier feel, warm minimalism brings a more ‘lived in’ feel to your home, embodying comfort but without clutter.
Will Lyne, co-owner and master designer for luxury brand, Christopher Peters Kitchens & Interiors explains
“Curating your colour palette is a great way to incorporate warm minimalism in your home. Using soft, neutral shades and adding hints of moss, ochre and caramels evokes an earthy, natural feel that is less harsh and stark than white, minimalist spaces.
“Using textures and textiles, you can create a calm, welcoming feel – think exposed woods, natural stone and worn metallics.”
Both simple and liveable, the pared-back aesthetic of warm minimalism can be incorporated into every room in the house. Adding decorative flourishes to a base of neutral, natural colours and a considered combination of textiles and finishes brings elegance and luxury to your space. Plants make a great addition to warm minimalism, tying in natural elements and adding a contrasting punch of colour to neutral interiors.
Here are some of Will’s suggestions to incorporate the key characteristics of warm minimalism in your home:
Practical, homely kitchens
Layered lighting schemes include different types of lighting that serve different purposes. In kitchens, lighting must complement layout, with worktops being well lit to allow for food preparation. Task lighting is functional and should be focused on providing sufficient light to safely use your kitchen. Adding ambient lighting, such as pendant lighting, diffuses light throughout your space, bringing warmth and interest to the room.
Warm minimalism encourages a variation in hardware finishes, and you can achieve this by using copper or chrome light fittings as a contrast to exposed stone or brickwork. Playing around with mixed materials is a great way to add a more stylised and polished feel to your home – done well, it can also instantly add comfort and familiarity to the space.
Beautiful boot rooms
Traditionally a functional room, boot rooms are a transitional space. Designed well, they keep outerwear, shoes, boots and pet-related items in a designated, organised space. Bespoke storage, with separate sections for family members, makes things easier to find. Unique and custom-designed features are an important aspect of warm minimalism and incorporating things such as family members’ initials combines purpose with personalisation.
Warm minimalism calls for warm, earthy tones, and soft neutrals – both of which can be incorporated in a boot room. Where possible, exposed brickwork or warm, terracotta-coloured floor tiles bring character and charm to your space. Contrasted with cabinetry in neutral shades creates a cohesive, stylish look. Boot rooms inevitably get muddy, so a darker floor colour is more practical. The focus of the room is on functionality, but well-designed, bespoke furniture elevates simple joinery to luxury cabinetry that copes with the demands of a busy family.
Stylish storage ideas
While warm minimalism combines clutter-free living with an inviting, personal feel, keeping surfaces clear is the foundation to a stylish space. Storage is crucial in any kitchen design. Well thought out, innovative storage includes spacious cupboards with pull-out drawers, adjustable compartments and in-door storage.
Warm minimalism calls for fewer, high-quality items. Offsetting cooler tones on painted cabinetry with warmer focal points such as wooden shelving or storage creates balance and harmony. Adding texture instantly creates warmth and depth. Natural, tactile materials such as wood bring life to an otherwise minimal interior. The robust, comforting look and feel of wood prevents simple cabinetry from looking stark, whilst combining styles of old and new brings a comfortable, easy-going feel to your room.
Author: Will Lyne, co-owner lead designer, Christopher Peters Kitchens & Interiors