A minimalist living room is about creating a quiet, orderly sanctuary where every item has a purpose and a place. Minimalism prioritizes quality over quantity, so your living room should be simple and meaningful, with every item contributing to its beauty and functionality.
A minimalist living room can be a haven where you can relax and unwind. A cluttered space can create a chaotic mindset, which is why there is so much emphasis on removing decorations and clutter to create purpose and harmony.
Our experts recommend the top 8 things minimalists never put in their living rooms. These are things to take out of your living room to create a minimalist space.
What minimalists don't put in their living room
“In a minimalist living room, every item is chosen and arranged with great care, creating a sense of calm and order in the space,” says Tadas Pukas, CEO and founder of Minimalistic Linen. Masu.
Here are some specifics you won't find in a minimalist space.
1. Excessive and bulky furniture
(Image credit: CB2)
“A minimalist living room avoids bulky, oversized furniture,” says Elizabeth Grace, founder of Dream Home Making. “Instead, choose sophisticated, streamlined items that serve a specific purpose.”
That means I usually avoid oversized or unnecessary items, such as bulky chairs, sofas, and multiple coffee tables.
Instead, minimalists focus on a few carefully chosen, subtle, yet impactful and versatile items that serve their intended purpose without overwhelming the space.
Streamlined, multifunctional furniture options are perfect for minimalist living spaces where the goal is to avoid visual clutter. This is because these pieces of furniture can reduce the impression of a cluttered living space.
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elizabeth grace
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Interior Designer, Dream House Maker Blog Founder
Elizabeth Grace is an interior designer, furniture and home expert. She earned her design degree in interior design from the University of Notre Dame. Elizabeth learned from some of New York City's top designers and she landed her first job as an intern at a major New York City firm. She currently works as an interior designer for both residential and commercial clients.
2. Excessive patterns and textures
(Image credit: Madeline Harper Photography)
Minimalists always avoid excessive patterns and prints, from ornate wallpapers, heavily patterned rugs and curtains, to loud decorative fabrics.
“Intricate, tight patterns and floral patterns are avoided as they tend to draw unnecessary attention and complicate the visual aesthetic,” explains Tadas Pukas.
Similarly, minimalists avoid elaborate rugs with intricate Moroccan or Persian designs. The goal is to choose a rug in a subdued, neutral color that complements the space rather than dominates it. ”
Instead, choose solid, neutral colors and delicate, minimalist patterns with clean lines and geometric shapes, if desired, to maintain a calming atmosphere. ”
3. The decoration is messy.
(Image credit: Laskasas)
“When we talk about what minimalists don't have in their living rooms, we're referring to the key idea of minimalism: intentionally eliminating things you don't need,” says James, owner of Olson & Baker. Scaife explains. “Minimalists say goodbye to clutter and knick-knacks. Instead, they choose clean, unobstructed surfaces that evoke a sense of tranquility.”
“Open shelves, coffee tables and clutter decorated with various knick-knacks will disrupt the minimalist aesthetic,” advises Elizabeth Grace.
Minimalists choose a simpler, more purposeful approach with decorative items that retain personal significance or add to the overall beauty without overcrowding the space.
“Avoid excessive decoration,” he suggests. All decorative items have been selected for both beauty and practicality.
Minimalists also keep their coffee tables clutter-free. When it comes to items you'll never have on your coffee table for a minimalist aesthetic, try not to pack too many items. “Avoid stacks of magazines, remote controls, or tons of decorative items,” says Artem Kropovinsky, founder of Arsight. “Unnecessary clutter is the last thing a minimalist hates. Choose a few carefully selected items or one of his pieces that makes a statement,” he adds Artem Kropovinsky Masu.
“Then there's that open shelving. It's definitely trendy, but in a minimalist environment, it quickly transforms into a showcase for all sorts of possibilities,” says Ryan Fitzgerald, owner of Raleigh Realty. says. “Closed storage or built-ins are a smarter choice here. They hide items you don't necessarily want on display and help your living area maintain a clean and peaceful atmosphere.” If you choose open shelving, Try to display a limited number of items in a well-balanced manner.
Minimalist living rooms utilize hidden storage solutions to keep your living room organized. Floating cabinets or closed bookshelves can help achieve this.
4. Saturated color palette
(Image courtesy of Binyan Studios)
“A minimalist color palette uses gentle neutrals to create a calming atmosphere,” says James Scaife. “Bold, contrasting, and busy patterns are replaced with simplicity, creating a sense of calm and unity.”
Tadas Pukas adds, “The color palette of a minimalist living room is restrained and often built on a neutral base, perhaps with soft complementary colors such as deep blues or blush pinks.'' The key is to avoid too many competing colors in one space and create a quiet, visually soothing environment.
This applies to all elements of the living room. “When using cushions, use a consistent color scheme or pattern to ensure uniformity and avoid clashes.”
5. Oversized and busy artwork
(Image credit: Nicole Franzen)
“Art can be a beautiful addition to a minimalist living room, but avoid pieces that are too large or overwhelming that overwhelm the space. Minimalists like to create subtle pieces that complement rather than dominate. I prefer meaningful art,” says Artem Kropovinsky.
“When it comes to art, it's amazing how the right piece can brighten up a room. But filling a wall with too many items can be overwhelming, especially if they don't mesh perfectly. , it can be overwhelming,” agrees Ryan Fitzgerald.
“Minimalism shows that choice is important. In a world where there are so many items, choosing what you have and being happy with it is the real basis of a living room.”
You can choose artwork that stands out, but not because it's busy or eye-catching, but because its simplicity should serve as the anchor for your minimalist living room interior.
Anthropologie has a variety of minimalist wall art to inspire you.
6. Excess electronics
(Image credit: Tim Waltman)
“While technology has its place, minimalists often avoid large, dominant screens like oversized TVs, preferring to focus on other design elements,” says James Scaife. say.
“Keep the number of electronic devices to a minimum. Avoid over-the-top entertainment systems and multiple screens,” recommends Elizabeth Grace. 'Choose sophisticated, modern technology that hides wires and integrates seamlessly into your room design. '
Archute principal and director Jacky Chou agrees. “Minimalists hide the TV out of sight, perhaps in a cabinet or mount it on the wall, hiding cords and accessories from view.”
For example, this square accent cabinet from Wayfair can hide this visual clutter.
7. Excessive cushioning
(Image credit: Tala Fustok/Michael Sinclair)
Resist the temptation to put too many cushions on your seat.
“Too many pillows can quickly transform your living space from cozy to cluttered. With minimalism, a restrained approach is key,” advises Jackie Chow. “It's best to choose well-coordinated pillows that match your color scheme and furniture.”
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8. Heavy window treatments
(Image credit: Lindy Galloway)
Elizabeth Grace says, “Heavy curtains or elaborate window treatments can disrupt the flow of minimalist natural light. Instead, use sheer window coverings or filters that filter light, which can maintain a feeling of openness and simplicity. Choose window coverings.”
Jackie Chou also says, “Curtains do a great job of blocking out unwanted light and noise, but sometimes they do a too good job.” Minimalists love natural light and refreshing breezes, so they don't use blinds or shades. Choose. This allows for maximum daylight and a controlled space for privacy. Also, the options chosen by them create simplicity and harmony with the color of the walls. ”
Principal and Director of Archute
Archute Principal and Director Jacky Chou
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Principal and Director of Archute
Jacky Chou is president and director of Archute, an editorial magazine about architecture, homes, and gardens. These have been referenced by The New York Times, Bustle, House & Home, Bloomberg, and Angi. Jacky also runs his interior design company online called Laurel & Wolf.
FAQ
Is ornate decoration minimalist?
Ornate ornaments are not usually part of a minimalist style.
“A minimalist living room doesn't have flashy or overly decorated decorations,” says Elizabeth Grace, founder of Dream Home Making. “Say no to intricate picture frames, ornate mirrors, or overly elaborate carvings. Instead, choose simple, clean decorative pieces that add visual interest without overwhelming the space. please.”
Minimalists create a relaxing environment by removing unnecessary clutter and reducing visual clutter, allowing you to feel more connected to your space.
To create an attractive minimalist living room, choose only decorative items that are simple, intentional, peaceful, and aesthetically pleasing.