The Art of Minimalism: Why Minimalism Remains A Popular Design Choice?

 Introduction

How we dress and live is a function not just of design inspirations and heritage, it is also a reflection of our values and not least of the time we live in. 

When things can seem a bit chaotic in one’s personal life or more broadly in the world around us, minimalism can offer a calming effect on our well being.

But there are many more reasons why the continued flirtation and love affair with minimalism persist. Below I will list some of the main reasons why minimalism still matters.

 

What is Minimalism

First off, though, let’s define what minimalism is as a design language: Minimalism is characterised by simplicity, clean lines, and most often with a monochromatic palette with potential use of colour as an accent. Minimalist design focuses on the shape, colour and texture.

Minimalism is commonly held to really gain influence in the 1960s and onwards, partly as a reaction to the consumer maximalism following the global financial growth after WWII, as well as easier access to new materials such as concrete and steel in architecture for instance.

 

Top 9 reasons: Why Minimalism Remains So appealing

1. Clarity and Focus

Minimalism strips away the unnecessary, allowing the essential quality and function of a design to stand out, and speak for itself. This clarity of design emphasises the intended function or message, making it easier for the observer to understand and appreciate the design, whether it is a piece of furniture, a house or a jewellery piece.

 

2. Timelessness

By avoiding ornamental excess and trends that date quickly, minimalist design tends to remain relevant over time. Its simplicity transcends temporary fashions, contributing to its long-standing appeal. In time with focus on sustainability this attribute to minimalism plays a key role for it popularity.

 

3. Versatility

Minimalist design has the advantage of versatility. Because it's not tied to specific patterns, colours, or styles that may clash, it can integrate smoothly with various environments and contexts, whether it be a piece of furniture or fashion piece.

 

4. Psychological Appeal

In a world that is increasingly cluttered and chaotic, minimalism offers a visual and spatial breather. It can induce a sense of calm and order, which is psychologically appealing to many people. 

I think this is particularly true, when it comes to interior design. A minimalism design home can become a calming oasis for you when you return home from work. But, the same is also true for clothes and jewellery. Minimalism design never gets outdated, and you can find comfort in the simplicity and tranquillity it brings you. 

 

5. Efficiency and Sustainability

Minimalism often means using fewer materials and more basic manufacturing processes, which can lead to more sustainable production methods. It also implies that less can be more, encouraging efficient use of resources. In a time where sustainability is in focus, this aspect is key.

6. Universality

Minimalist design is often universal in its appeal. It transcends cultural and linguistic barriers, allowing products or messages to reach a broader audience. 

Say Ikea, their minimalism apparel can be witnessed across the globe, with 471 stores in 63 countries. Likewise, Danish Fashion, one of Denmark’s biggest exports can be found in most clothes shops around the world from Kazakhstan to Columbia, from Chile to Canada.

 

 7. Enhances Usability

In user interface design, for example, minimalism can improve usability and user experience. A clean and simple design makes it easier for users to navigate and find what they need without distraction. Again, in a time with a lot of ‘noise’ around simple enhanced usability through minimalist design is very alluring.

 

8. Amplifies Quality

When there are fewer elements in a design, the quality of those elements becomes more important. Minimalism often showcases high-quality materials and craftsmanship, as there is less to distract from imperfections. 

This attribute to minimalism is very much the reason behind why I chose to call my company RAW, to let the raw materials speak for themselves through very minimalist design.

9. The symbolic Value

Minimalism has come to symbolise sophistication and modernity. It's often associated with luxury and high-end products because of its clean and 'no-frills' aesthetic. 

To have a minimalist home or wardrobe is therefore by many associated with so-called quiet luxury, which according to wikipedia is defined as: ‘a lifestyle characterised by understated elegance and refined consumption, emphasising exclusivity and discerning taste without overt displays of wealth’.

Why Minimalism Still Matters

So, to sum up, the longevity of minimalism as a popular design language is closely tied to its inherent qualities that appeal to our innate desire for simplicity, clarity, and order, something that we humans strive even more towards, when life can seem a bit more chaotic than usual.

Next Friday, let's take a closer look at Scandi minimalism, and how that comes to light in Danish jewellery design.

Let me know what you think about minimalism in the comment section below.

Have a fabulous weekend filled with Scandi Zen : ).