A pared-down, minimalist style can create the most calming living room, where you can truly relax. And the good news is that it's surprisingly easy to add a minimalist flavor to your existing scheme without making any major changes.
First, it goes without saying that there's more to a minimalist living room than just getting rid of stuff. They are often characterized by clean, crisp designs, spacious floor plans, light colors, and a lack of architectural details.
That said, you can certainly create a more minimalist aesthetic by swapping out furniture, finding versatile living room storage solutions, and getting rid of items that don't have room.
What to take out of the living room to create a minimalist space
Industry experts say if you want to embrace your minimalist side, you should get rid of these items from your living room.
(Image credit: Future PLC)
1. Things that collect dust
Furniture and decorations may have been in the exact same place for years, so if you don't change anything, your interior can end up looking unsightly. So, take everything off your coffee table, shelves, and side tables, clean your living room while the surfaces are clean, and rearrange your items to make it feel like new.
Display ornaments in a triangular shape or vignette, with the tallest item on either side of two smaller pieces. You can get rid of all the seasonal decorations and knick-knacks that have accumulated over time.
“One of the best things you can do to achieve the ultimate minimalist space is to take inventory of what you actually use in your living area,” says interior designer Breegan Jane. “Many people keep items that they are afraid to part with, but they may not interact with those items for a long time.
“Throw away the rolled-up yoga mat in the corner or the expired eucalyptus vase on the mantel.”
breegan jane
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TV presenter and designer
Breegan Jane is a Los Angeles television host, designer, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. Breegan's signature style combines artistic elegance with livable comfort. She has achieved a strikingly modern aesthetic, with décor that maximizes elegance and promotes simplicity, tranquility and maximum comfort.
2. Too many small decorations
(Image credit: Styling Sally Denning / Photo Polly Wreford)
Adding small decorative items to your shelves can add character, but too many can only create a cluttered look. You'll know if it's time to declutter your living room. Breegan Jane and Hilary Cohen share expert tidying tips for when you're done.
“When it comes to decorating, think 'bigger, less',” says Breegan Jane. “Instead of scattering 10 pieces of chalk, aim for larger, more impactful pieces, like dramatic oversized artwork or crystals. You can get all the beauty without the clutter. Masu.”
According to Hilary Cohen, over-accessorizing is the easiest way to make a space feel cluttered. “Try to cut down on volume and use only a few accents of popular items. Do you like coffee table books? Keep just one or two out and rotate them often.” she suggests.
Hilary Cohen
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interior designer
Hilary Cohen founded HCO Interiors, a full-service interior design firm serving the greater New York/New Jersey area. She creates layered and thoughtful interiors that allow her clients to live the most beautiful version of their lives. With over 15 years of experience, Hilary has worked on projects including large and small mansions, boutique hotels, and celebrity residences in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Nashville, Hawaii, Martha's Vineyard, the Hamptons, and New York City.
3. Your coffee table
(Image credit: Future PLC)
“People often gasp when I say they don't actually need a coffee table in their living room,” says Breegan Jane. “Yes, I love the look of a chic stone or brass table, but the truth is, they take up a lot of space.”
So if you're looking for functionality with a minimalist aesthetic, Breegan suggests replacing your bulky coffee table with some (much smaller) occasional tables. Anthropologie's multiple side tables allow for a more free-flowing and adaptable living room layout, perfect for small living rooms.
“It can be stored right next to your seat and can be very easily adapted to different needs in your living space,” says Breegan.
4. Old media storage unit
(Image courtesy of Studio McGee)
There's nothing wrong with a vintage TV stand, but I feel that a wall-mounted TV fits my minimalist style better. “Bulky media storage units such as TV stands and large entertainment centers typically take up a lot of space and dominate the look of your living room, so it's best to remove them,” says Sylvia Lee, interior designer at Open Spaces Feng Shui. Please.”
“If you're still using physical media like DVDs and CDs, replace bulky media storage with a smaller media console that only houses the media devices you need, or opt for a minimalist wall-mounted TV.”
5. Excessive lighting
some large light fixtures work well
(Image credit: Artteriors)
When it comes to lighting, less is more, argues Sylvia Lee. “Proper lighting is essential for any living room, but excessive light fixtures can create an overwhelming and cluttered environment and should be removed from the living room for a more minimalist space.” she says.
“Remove any floor lamps, pendant lamps, or table lamps that do not contribute to the living room's overall lighting plan. To provide adequate lighting and maintain a minimalist space, place several light fixtures strategically. Please place it.”
What materials does minimalism prefer?
James Scaife, founder of furniture and lighting company Olson & Baker, says the key is to incorporate natural elements. “Incorporating materials such as wood, glass, metal, and concrete brings a sense of authenticity and timelessness to a room. These materials not only contribute to a minimalist feel, but also add visual interest. It also adds a sense of durability.”
“Minimalism is all about delicacy, the beauty of wood grain, the sheen of lacquer, and more. Embracing minimalism allows you to focus on what really matters: relaxing and unwinding in a simple environment. It creates a sanctuary where you can find peace.”
Minimalism uses essential, functional items in an aesthetic way. The best way to achieve this is by choosing furniture that is versatile. “For minimalists, I always recommend versatile furniture,” says Breegan Jane. “Look for items that do double duty, like a credenza with a door that opens for storage or a large ottoman with a cavity to hide items you don't want out.”
If an item is only used once and doesn't bring you joy, consider getting rid of it. It might be an old footstool with no built-in storage, or a floor lamp you don't really like. In the kitchen, there are a lot of things you need to get rid of to achieve a more minimalist space that looks great and functions seamlessly. What do we remove?