What is a minimalist living room? Well, the term can be a bit vague, but essentially, it refers to a room with a minimal amount of decoration. It has a clean, white color palette with a combination of modern and traditional furniture. The furniture, such as a sofa or sectional, should be simple and functional, and not distract from the overall design. The minimalist living room should also be a space in which you can enjoy the natural surroundings and relax.
The design should have a single focal point, such as a large mirror or a quirky conversation piece. The design should be centered around this focal point to create a balance in the overall design weight of the room. In a small room, a single large mirror can create the illusion of a larger space, and a large mirror can reflect light. A minimalist living room should be free of unnecessary details, like vases, and should feature only the most essential pieces.
Monochrome furniture may be a good choice, as it can add a hint of scenery. Alternatively, monochrome furniture can be complemented with metallics and a marble tile floor. The minimalist living room is often filled with a black TV and a single piece of furniture, such as a vintage ice-cream machine. Often, minimalist design is more effective when it is balanced between functionality and visual appeal. A minimalist living room is not devoid of charm, so don’t be afraid to hire a designer to help you.
While a minimalist living room is all about removing physical clutter, it doesn’t mean that you can’t have a gallery wall. The Hannah Tyler Designs gallery wall is laid out in symmetrical rows above a sectional sofa, and is dominated by black-and-white photographs. This works in harmony with the minimalist color scheme and creates a peaceful, soothing atmosphere. The only real limit to the space is your own personal sanctuary.
Adding a luxurious sofa to your minimalist living room can add visual interest. A green velvet sofa designed by Catherine Kwong, for instance, adds drama to a room without distracting from its overall design. This sofa’s low profile platform and rich color also work well with the walls and other furniture. However, be careful to balance the color scheme. A sofa in a luxurious color may be overkill, but a sofa in a rich color adds drama without distracting from the rest of the space.
Another important aspect of minimalist living rooms is that they incorporate most of the decor into the furnishings. The accessories, including vases and flowers, should be treated like artwork. While you’re on a budget, you should still use bright rugs or colorful throw pillows to tie the look together. A bold accent, such as a colorful flower, can add to a monotone room. Similarly, a bold-colored curtain can add a playful accent to a monochromatic space.