Sometimes, the word minimalism conjures up images of perfectly ordered, almost sterile emptiness. Over the decades, the term has evolved to convey an overall timeless simplicity, regardless of culture. And right there is Korean minimalism, a design aesthetic that's making waves by expanding outside of its original origins. New York's rugged exteriors often leave little room for notable first impressions. But hidden behind centuries-old buildings and creaky staircases are some of the city's most impressive interiors. Caught between various gimmicks, a growing number of establishments are offering less adrenaline-inducing and more dopamine-inducing experiences. Comprised of minimalist spaces, these small but mighty vessels are intentionally understated and led by a handful of Korean-American entrepreneurs.
Physical stores such as Korean-style cafes, retail stores, and pop-up shops offer quiet sanctuaries through cultural sensitivities, despite the busy thoroughfares these buildings occupy. These soothing interiors often share commonalities such as neutral-toned walls, natural decor, and artfully and subtly placed ornaments, which add warmth and warmth to the room. However, it creates an attractive tranquility.
Bomi Jin, founder of her eponymous boutique in Soho, says she wanted to create as much of a second home as possible. Her finding her comfort and peace in Manhattan was intentional, right down to the floor she chose. Bomi Mercer She's tucked away at eye level on the street, but once you head upstairs you'll discover a curated world filled with hard-to-find homewares and cool girl accessories. “I didn't want[Bomi]to be another ground-floor store in Soho,” she says. She says, “I hope that when people come upstairs, they feel a sense of calm, like they're in a friend's apartment.”
Bomi Jin's boutique has a dedicated section for kitchenware, above which stainless steel shelving has been added to add a pop of contrast to the mostly neutral atmosphere.
Photo: Bomi Jin
Korean minimalism is a term that has yet to be fully adopted in the mainstream design lexicon. However, one of its main differences is that it can be maximized with very little. Like New York City, space is limited in South Korea's metropolitan areas, including Seoul. Often this is done out of a need to be creative with limited space, but the end result is less clutter. “It’s not the biggest, but it’s not that crowded,” Bomi adds. “That in itself is an experience.”
Minimalism is often associated with Japanese and Scandinavian methods, or their beloved child Japandi. According to Jenny Lee, founder of luxury loungewear label Comme Si, what sets Korean minimalism apart from all other variations is that it is firmly rooted in Tao influences. “Korean minimalist design is based on the Taoist principles of yin and yang: harmony with nature and simplicity.”
Due to the core characteristics mentioned above, there is some flexibility in aesthetics. Jennie emphasizes that South Korea provides a solid foundation for incorporating modernity because it emphasizes aspects such as balance, intentionality, and restraint. Think of a sleek, unfinished wooden structure with industrial warehouses and artisan-made ornaments atop metal shelving. “Many of these spaces are blank canvases that incorporate elements of the earth,” says Dae owner Carol Song. “That modern touch is what makes it different.”