Are your walls cluttered with a mishmash of items that somehow don't bring joy anymore? (I must admit that I am guilty of this!) Maybe it's time for a change. Decluttering doesn't just apply to drawers and closets, your walls deserve a breath of fresh air too.
My aim with this article is to show you how to create a more minimalist wall decor and some additional organisational tips that will help to clean up your space and bring a sense of calm and order.
Start with a Blank Slate
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Before you begin, I want you to take everything off your walls. Yes, I mean everything! I understand that this might seem daunting at first, but it’s easier to start decorating from scratch than trying to rearrange what's already there. With bare walls, you can really assess the space and decide on what truly deserves a spot on your wall.
Choose Quality Over Quantity
When it comes to minimalist interior design and decor, each item in your space needs to carry its weight in terms of aesthetics and function. This philosophy encourages a careful selection of pieces that complement your style and contribute to the overall harmony of your environment.
When choosing wall decor, I suggest that you think about the emotional feelings and practical utility that each piece offers. For example, a beautifully framed print of a favourite photograph will add a personal touch while evoking fond memories for friends and family.
Similarly, a handcrafted wall sculpture might serve as a conversation starter while also reflecting your unique taste. This selective approach helps to avoid the clutter that can come from accumulating too many decorative items, ensuring that those you do display are both meaningful and impactful.
Functional Wall Art
With minimalist decor, functionality should blend seamlessly with style. With this in mind, I want you to consider incorporating elements that aren't just visually appealing but also serve a practical purpose.
A large, statement-making wall clock for instance, can serve as a focal point in a room while keeping you punctual. Similarly, a beautifully designed coat rack installed near the entryway can be both a sculptural art piece and a convenient place to hang coats and bags.
For areas like the kitchen or office, magnetic boards or sleek shelving units can double as display spaces for decorative elements while keeping essential tools and documents at arm's reach. This dual-purpose approach ensures that every piece enhances the decor and contributes to an efficient living space.
Stick to a Cohesive Colour Scheme
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In my opinion, using a cohesive colour scheme is crucial in creating a tranquil and harmonious space. Minimalist interiors often lean on a palette of whites and other neutrals to create a soothing backdrop that makes the environment feel larger and more open. If monochrome sounds too restrained, consider introducing one or two accent colours that can be echoed throughout the room in various textures and shades.
For example, a splash of navy blue or deep green can add depth and interest to an otherwise neutral setting. You can then add these colours in throw pillows, vases, or artwork to create a sense of continuity and flow throughout your space. This decorative strategy allows for flexibility in decor choices while maintaining a unified look that is easy on the eyes.
Go Vertical with Storage
I like to make the most of vertical spaces when I am coming up with new minimal interior design schemes, as it is an excellent way to maintain minimalism, especially in smaller living areas. Wall-mounted shelves offer a perfect solution for storing and displaying items without sacrificing floor space. These can be used to organise books, show off collections, or house decorative objects that bring personality to a room.
Additionally, installing hooks or pegs can transform an empty wall into a functional area for hanging items like umbrellas, bags, and scarves. This keeps essentials within easy reach and helps keep the area tidy and free of clutter. By utilising walls for storage in these ways, you can keep your living space open and airy, allowing for better movement and a cleaner look.
Create a Gallery Wall
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If like me, you love art and photographs, creating a gallery wall is a fantastic way to display it without cluttering up too much wall space. The key to a minimalist gallery wall is spacing and balance. Choose frames of the same colour but in different sizes to maintain uniformity while adding interest. Space them evenly and do not overcrowd the wall.
Let There Be Light
As I have always said, proper lighting is essential in minimalist design and interior design in general, serving both functional and aesthetic purposes. It enhances the room's ambience by providing sufficient illumination and setting the mood.
Recessed lighting offers a clean, streamlined look, while flush-mounted lights keep the ceiling line smooth. Task lighting, such as under-cabinet lights in kitchens or focused desk lamps in offices, adds functionality by illuminating specific work areas. Accent lighting can highlight key architectural features or decor items, adding depth and interest to any space.
Of course, letting in plenty of natural light is also crucial as it opens up the space, making it feel larger and more welcoming. Mirrors strategically placed opposite windows can amplify this effect, enhancing the natural brightness and giving the illusion of more space.
Reflect and Edit
Once you’ve set up your new wall decor, take a step back and evaluate what you have created. Sometimes what seemed like a good idea at the time doesn't work out in practice. Don’t be afraid to remove items that don’t add value to your decor. Minimalism is a continuous process of assessing and re-evaluating what’s essential.
Embrace Negative Space
In any form of minimalist design, 'negative space' – the empty space around and between objects – is just as important as the objects themselves. I suggest that you resist the urge to fill every inch of your wall. Instead, let the space breathe. This not only makes your room appear larger but also directs attention to the decor that makes the cut.
My Final Thoughts
With my directions and tips, I hope that your journey towards a cleaner, more organised, and stylish space is well on its way. Remember, decluttering is not just about removing things you no longer need, but is about making room for peace and creativity to flourish.