This year has completely changed the way people design their homes. For many families, room layouts have had to be adjusted to accommodate Zoom meetings and remote learning. Some focused on having more space to exercise during the day, while others added greenery, a more appealing color palette, or stocked up on comfortable cushions. Some people were dedicated to making their entire home more comfortable.
However, as people buy new furniture and decorations to suit their current lifestyles, interest in minimalist living is also on the rise. In light of COVID-19, the idea of living in a stripped-down space — one that fosters a sense of calm — has become more appealing to homeowners.
Interior designer Michelle Harrison McAllister says, “A minimalist lifestyle is proving to be a huge benefit during this pandemic, as soft and simple design is bringing us joy right now.'' “I'll do it,” he says.
If you're interested in how to realistically achieve a modern minimalist design aesthetic, consider these tips from Harrison-McAllister.
Prohibit clutter.
Clutter is the opposite of minimalism, so take the time to organize your belongings and free up the space you need in your home. “A great place to start is by editing out all clutter, such as magazines and newspapers, along with layers of accessories like blankets and pillows,” says Harrison McAllister. For more ideas to streamline your home, check out our 14-day decluttering challenge.
Be strategic about incorporating accessories.
Once you clear your space of clutter, carefully choose accessories that speak to your aesthetic. “Keep your space unique by storing carefully selected items that each hold a personal memory,” says Harrison McAllister. “He then adds one bold piece of art to break up the space and bring this style to life.”
Choose furniture with clean lines.
Instead of choosing furniture in a variety of styles and finishes, choose furniture that is understated and timeless. “Make sure your furniture has clean lines, with no rounded arms or decorative legs,” says Harrison McAllister. “These things can just be overlooked and you can be too busy.”
Provided by Michelle Harrison McAllister
Use a neutral palette.
You can never go wrong with a neutral palette, especially if you have a minimalist home. White, cream, beige, gray, and taupe shades are all ideal (but make sure you have some good upholstery cleaner on hand!). “You can keep your eyes relaxed, and you can add elements of texture through plants, pillows, and art,” says Harrison McAllister. To keep your space from looking sterile, try contrasting shades of one color or textured fabrics like linen or chenille.
Bring in the outdoors.
Fabrics aren't the only way to weave texture into a space. Green is also important. “Choose plants with a cleaner, more architectural style and avoid bulky plants that take up unnecessary space and create clutter and debris over time,” says Harrison McAllister. Figs, snake plants, and cacti are all great choices.
Accept that maintaining a minimalist home is an ongoing process.
Making the decision to live in a minimalist home requires a lot of patience. It requires a change in mindset and a willingness to edit what you have, taking the time to collect new things. “Don't try to do everything at once, or you'll miss out on the joy you get when redesigning a space,” says Harrison McAllister.
Monique Valeris is Good Housekeeping's home design director, overseeing the brand's home décor range across print and digital. Before joining GH in 2020, she served as a digital editor at Elle Decor. In her current role, she includes writing a monthly column, “What's in Your Cart,'' where she explores everything from design trends to home tours to lifestyle product recommendations.