When we think of minimalist design, many of us imagine empty, sterile spaces, but there's so much more to it than that. In fact, minimalism is all about finding balance and creating harmony with fewer elements.
The goal isn't just to remove down everything until there's nothing left, but to focus on what truly matters. The Swedish "Lagom" concept, which translates to "just the right amount," plays a huge role in this philosophy.
Instead of cluttering a space with things we don't need, minimalist design advocates for removing the excess while ensuring that the essentials remain functional and beautiful.
Does "Eternal" Design Really Exist?
Have you ever wondered if truly timeless design is possible? Many argue that "eternal" design is a bit of a utopian dream because all design reflects the time and culture in which it was created. However, despite living in an age of fast-paced trends, many of us still desire designs that are simple, timeless, and human-centered. Design isn't just about making things look good—it's about creating something that feels right, lasts over time, and serves its purpose. For example, tactile elements, such as how a chair feels when you sit down or how the surface of a table feels under your fingertips, are just as important as how the object looks. These sensory experiences transcend culture and become universally appealing because they touch upon our basic human needs.
The Starting Point of Creation
In design, finding the starting point can be a challenge. It involves an ongoing process of adding and removing elements until something feels just right. This iterative process helps identify the most essential features and eliminates what's unnecessary, leading to designs that are not only visually appealing but also deeply meaningful. This concept extends to photography as well—capturing the essence of a subject by focusing on what's important and leaving out the distractions. It's all about maintaining clarity and purpose in every element, whether it's in a design or a photograph.
How Does "Lagom" Translate into Minimalist Design?
If we understand "Lagom" correctly, it's the idea of "just enough"—not too much, not too little. In design, this philosophy encourages us to simplify our spaces by removing unnecessary items. The result is a space that feels calming and free of clutter. This was something I experimented with during my time in architecture school: I filled all the cabinets in my kitchen with rice and, after a year, threw out everything I hadn't used. This act of letting go of things that no longer serve a purpose is a key principle of minimalist living. It's about liberating your space and, ultimately, your mind.
Does Minimalism Make a Home Feel Too Empty?
A common concern with minimalist design is that it might make a home feel too bare or impersonal. However, I believe that space should be slightly reduced to allow room for human interaction. When the space itself isn't demanding attention, it creates an environment where people can focus on their lives, not the surroundings. While vibrant, colorful environments are stimulating and exciting, our homes should serve as sanctuaries—a place where we can retreat, feel secure, and regain our balance after a hectic day.
Should Designers Always Be Cutting-Edge?
In today's world, it's easy to think that designers should always be at the forefront of technology. However, I'm a big fan of "technology that doesn't look like technology." Whether it's in the design of cars, phones, or even furniture, technology should blend seamlessly with everyday life. Instead of pushing design into the realm of futuristic, alien-like objects, I believe we should focus on creating technology that feels comfortable and natural. Good design doesn't have to scream "innovation"—it should simply enhance our daily lives.
Do Decorations Have a Place in Minimalist Design?
While minimalism often leans towards simplicity, it doesn't mean removing away all decoration. Some of the most famous minimalist designs, like those by Adolf Loos, use natural materials like marble in expressive, yet simple ways. The key is that the "decoration" isn't added for its own concern—it's an integral part of the material, contributing to the overall aesthetic without overwhelming the space.
What Does "Home" Mean to You?
For me, the concept of home isn't just about physical space. It's about the sense of comfort and security that a space provides. This feeling of home doesn't need to be tied to a specific place—whether it's a small hotel in Japan or a friend's house, home is where we feel protected from the outside world. Today, even offices are beginning to reflect this concept. More and more, people are looking for environments that feel less like sterile workplaces and more like comfortable, human-centered spaces. In the modern world, the boundaries between work and home are increasingly blurred, with the desire for a balanced, peaceful environment influencing both personal and professional spaces.
Should Design Follow Trends?
Interestingly, design trends are often influenced by economics. Cultures with wealth can afford to replace things regularly, leading to extravagant and sometimes gaudy expressions in design. But these designs eventually become dated, reflecting their era. On the other hand, simpler designs that have lasted through history tend to be more timeless because they were made to endure. For instance, Scandinavian design, with its simplicity and functionality, became more popular after the financial crisis of 2008. People shifted from the flashy to the more understated, seeking designs that would stand the test of time.
Lykkers, have you ever thought about how minimalism could transform your home or workspace? Let us know how you feel about the balance between simplicity and functionality in design!
