Embracing warm minimalism
Recently when scrolling through Instagram or Pinterest, I’ve noticed there’s a certain type of design style that’s been catching my eye. Every post I save or screenshot has elements of warm minimalism. This design style really caught on after the start of the pandemic as people looked to their homes to provide a sense of comfort and stability during uncertain times, but it has continued to be prevalent in the design world with its welcoming, cozy, and livable spaces.
Photo Credit: Iconic Design + Build
What is warm minimalism?
In order to explain warm minimalism, we first have to talk about minimalism. On a macro-level, minimalism is a lifestyle, a movement, a transformation of mindset to balance out the excessive stimulations experienced in our daily lives. When it comes to design, this means living in an uncluttered environment and buying less unnecessary or excess objects, resulting in a relaxed aesthetic and mind.
Warm minimalism centers around the same idea of minimalism but focuses on creating interiors embodied with warmth, hominess, character and that are filled with life. If you like the idea of the minimalist lifestyle but the designs feel too bland or cold, then warm minimalism is for you.
Photo Credit: Norm Architects
how to Decorate with Warm Minimalism
quality over quantity
Remember that the idea here is less is more, which means each piece has to tell a story, be meaningful, or useful. Don’t overcrowd the space with useless decorating, but rather invest in 2-3 intentional pieces that are the proper scale and proportion. Although each item may be more expensive, you are buying fewer items overall.
Photo Credit: Fiona Lynch
Warm neutral colors
The color palette for warm minimalism should always include white, black and warm neutrals. Think stone greys, warm browns and sometimes tonal greens. Farrow & Ball’s neutral paints are a great example of what you’re looking for and are packed with pigment which means a richer, deeper color. To achieve the warm minimalist look, try Stony Ground, Light Gray or School House White, featured in this bedroom:
Photo Credit: @thehall_home
Texture
Texture will help balance out all the white in the space by adding warmth and depth. So for decor, think chunky wool rugs like the Quinn Hand Woven Rug, stone or ceramic vessels, and plants like this faux ZZ plant. But texture isn’t limited to decor! You can also add texture through your furniture pieces, like this Ivory Lacquered Linen Coffee Table from CB2. Note the all texture in the image below: the paper lantern chandelier, marble coffee table, long sheer drapes, woven chair and natural jute rug.
Photo Credit: Avenue Design Studio
Glow
Again, the idea is to keep the room feeling warm, so when it comes to metals, be sure to add details of copper or brass. Look to add these details in your picture framing, side tables and especially lighting.
Soft materials
Coziness is key. Bringing in soft materials in pillows, rugs and even in furniture is what differentiates warm minimalism from minimalism and is what will make your room feel inviting.
Photo Credit: The Sofa Company
Patterns
Add some subtle patterns to balance out the monochromatic style through your art, pillows, and rugs. Try this beautiful rug or these ivory pillows from Scout & Nimble.
