Minimal ≠ Stark: 20 Surprisingly Warm Minimalist Homes

Unfortunately people often confuse minimal with stark. But they're not one in the same. In fact, good minimal design is rich, textural and well composed. There's just not lots of 'stuff' to clutter up the space. As William Morris says, "Have nothing in your house that you don't know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful", minimalism doesn't mean you should get rid of everything. Rather it means you should surround yourself with what you truly need, or truly love. A beautiful minimalist design allows you to spend less money on superficial 'decorations' and instead focus your energy and budget on quality materials and beautiful objects. Take a look at these 20 surprisingly rich and warm minimalist designs to see what we're talking about…

Firstly, A Minimal Mantra

1. Minimal Bedroom

Texture from the bed spread, shear curtains and lime washed timber combine with a statement lamp. A splash of 'colour' balances out what would otherwise be a very stark white room.

2. Minimalist Living Area

This design lets the view and that statement fireplace do the talking.

3. Minimal Bathroom

All the money saved on glass and mirrors has been poured into a decidedly sculptural bath. Warm, yes. Practical? It's arguable…

4. Minimal Christmas Tree

Because pine needles can be so… troublesome. Meanwhile instead of being minimal the dog is positively tizzy.

5. Minimal Bedroom

Because, really, what more do you need than your favourite book, a decent sound system, your comfiest shoes, and stylishly mis-matched pillows?

6. Minimal Home Office

Clear away all distractions. Once you only have your dual monitors and your vintage model car collection to concentrate on, your productivity will skyrocket.

7. Minimal Kitchen

The overall vibe is minimal, but wood grain keeps it livable.

8. Another Minimal Kitchen

Much more minimal that the previous kitchen, but there's a balance of tone and texture here that makes this a beautiful and intriguing space. Also, the island bench looks like it's floating (that's great detailing, essential for minimalist design).

9. Minimal Fireplace

The balance and composition of this fireplace is stunning. The touch of natural greenery keeps the whole look human.

10. Minimal Stair

Nothing beats a super minimal stair. Not for the faint of heart. Or the safety conscious. It's a shame(?) Australia's building code would never allow this.

11. Minimal Dining Area

Sculptural vintage furniture and the unusual green floor adds a bunch of personality to this minimal dining room.

12. Minimal Japanese Home

When it comes to minimalism done right. Japan gets it. Every time.

13. Minimal Open Plan Space

Even the decorations are functional in this stunning interior from Melbourne.

14. Minimal Space

Function blurs into form in this simple, minimal interior. The difference between minimal and stark here is the attention paid to composition and integrated design.

15. Minimal House

Proof that minimal does not have to be boring.

16. Minimal Bathroom

This bathroom is saved from looking stark thanks to the rich, textured tiles.

17. Minimal Lounge

Making the most of an external view involves pairing back the interior to compliment rather than detracting.

18. Minimal Bathroom

Black and white interior, but interest is maintained thanks to unusually shaped tiles and geometric fixtures.

19. Minimal Home

Does it get much better than this? Minimal stair becoems a bench, unique desk and rich timber.

20. Minimal Concrete Cabin

Just the essentials. Delightfully arranged. Now that's minimalism.

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About the Author

Brodie Norris runs Lunchbox Architect, a website featuring one exceptional, architect-designed family home every weekday.

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