3 Minimalistic Influencers and their Perspective on Minimalism Interior Design

In anticipation of one of Denmark’s biggest design events, 3 Days of Design, we at VOCAST have dug deeper into the world of interior design.

Today it seems people are striving towards a cleaner, less cluttered way of living and while consumerism is kicking the bucket, minimalism is stepping into its shoes.

Curious and driven by our Scandinavian roots, we set out to discover more about what makes an interior minimalistic. To help you navigate the field, we spoke with three minimalists from three separate countries who help define minimalism within their own markets.

What is Minimalism?

Minimalism across the markets 

However, as a minimalistic brand it might be hard to know what to look for when devouring new markets. Who’s to say that minimalism looks the same wherever you go?

“Minimalism as a trend differs from person to person. Some people are into minimalism because it is stylish and not because they embrace the philosophy behind it. Of course, minimalism also appeals to some french design companies as their furniture can adapt to anyone, and fit in with more people,” Yasmina says.

”In Scandinavia, though, I think most people refer minimalism to mostly architecture and design. Scandinavian minimalism is usually seen as something modern and progressive, and is still very much influenced by Danish design,” Fredrik means.

”The minimalistic key ’less is more’ in Scandinavian countries is not generally the case in other markets. It’s imperative to look at the history of design over the years as well” Willow explains.   

”In America, the basis of design came from its colonial days, with a strong traditional influence from England. You see this in the pillar-like architecture of homes, the dark brown hues and tones, the ornamental furniture and so on! So a ”minimal” home in Los Angeles is going to differ greatly from that in a Nordic country, Denmark, for instance. Although you will still find elements in the design styles, just in another variation.”
   

How will Minimalism Evolve in the Future?

As our minimalistic insiders have explained; minimalism is more than a mere trend, but rather a philosophy and way of life. Perhaps this is a result of the ongoing environmental crisis, and people seeking to simplify their lives. But there is another aspect to minimalism; the look of it.

Willow describes how the traditional sense of minimalism, with its stark white walls and charcoal grayscale furniture pieces, is subject to change. At least visually.

”If fast forward to today, we are seeing warm beiges, taupes, and muted grays. The colors may change, decor pieces may evolve, but the root of the minimalistic ’less is more’ approach remains the same.”

”I think people nowadays have taken a step further in their minimalistic decorating, by adding more objects and mixing in colors and materials to add a warmer feeling. A ’traditional’ minimalistic home can look a little empty and cold, but by adding some warm colors you can add more personality,” Fredrik explains.

”When living somehow got complicated, it was refreshing to think of coming home to a minimal and simple interior.”

”Today I do see people minimizing their lifestyles; decluttering their homes, attempting to live more simply and so on. I’d hope that more and more will catch on to this ’trend’ of living. It’s quite liberating, to say the least,” says Willow.

”Minimalism can be a more than a trend and is for me a way of life. I sincerely hope that more people will embrace this trend of ridding themselves of things not necessary around us,” Yasmina says.

Minimalism is not only a style but a mindset that is not only exclusive to one market or one walk of life. Minimalism is ever changing and will continue to follow us throughout the future of design innovations and help inspire us as humans to live a simpler life.
     

Psst? Make sure you don’t miss out on Denmark’s Annual Design Event 3 days of Design. Find out more about the event, and how it could benefit your brand here!

VOCAST’s Swedish Curator Linnea Litsberger grew up in Shanghai, but is now based in slightly smaller Malmö. With a BA in Strategic Communication, Linnea divides her time between her great passion for communication and expression, modern dance and her little Westie.