Following decorating trends is a great way to find out what's hot right now and get inspiration for your own home. Some popular design trends are even designed to increase the property value of your home. However, it is difficult to keep track of these design ideas and what they actually mean for your living space. House Digest spoke exclusively with Erika Dale, interior designer and founder of Erika Dale Interior Design, to learn more about minimalist interior design and decor and what everyone seems to get wrong about this design style.
“When people hear the word 'minimalism,' they typically think of a simple interior with a completely light, neutral color palette,” Dale explained. “Minimalist design, however, focuses on simplicity, intentionality and functionality, using clean lines and pared-back decor to highlight the essential.” If you're considering transforming your space into a minimalist interior design, check out some inspiration online, to get an idea of what decor choices you can make in this style. This can help you decide if it is the right decision for your home.
Read more: Painting tips even HGTV stars swear by
Minimalist does not mean neutral
A minimalist living room is painted green and furnished with an orange couch. -Onurdongel/Getty Images
Despite what you may initially think, minimalist design can be anything but dull and boring. In fact, many people who embrace the minimalist interior design trend have lots of colors and textures in their home. During House Digest's exclusive interview with Erika Dale, she talked about how you can still give your home a lived-in feel while following this design trend.
“To avoid that sterile, empty feeling, successful minimalist interiors are full of texture and streamlined visual appeal in the form of very conscious decoration choices,” said Dale. “Also, don’t be afraid to use some color and contrast – simplicity of form and aesthetics are not mutually exclusive in restrictive, bright, neutral color palettes.”
Instead of having a large amount of decorative items, minimalist design is more about the quality and value of the items to you. Find multi-purpose items—like this coffee table, which packs a few surprises and is perfect for small spaces—that can help keep your space looking simple without sacrificing functionality.
What are the rules for minimalist decor?
This black and white kitchen is bold yet simple. – digitalsunset/Shutterstock
Most home decor trends have a set of “rules” that help differentiate the trend from another design style. In minimalist design, this may mean emphasizing simplicity in the amount of elements and color selection, using multifunctional elements, taking into account natural light, and incorporating negative spaces. When House Digest spoke exclusively with Erika Dale, she shared her thoughts on these standards.
“I absolutely agree with all of these 'rules' of minimalism as the aesthetic is best showcased without clutter, selective decor that has personal value, and a calm balance of negative space to rest the eye,” said Dale. “However, I think that using a simple color palette can mean more than just neutrals.” This means that adopting the minimalist style doesn't mean that your home has to be filled with browns, grays, and whites. Consider how other paint colors can create a peaceful environment while following the minimalist design trend.
Read the original article on House Digest.