Straight, geometric shapes dominate. No superfluous lines or elements, but rather generously open spaces.
Everything superfluous disappears. Only those things regularly used remain visible. The result is a tidy, clear space.
Minimalism is by no means a new trend, but rather dates back to ancient times. Already the Romans valued well-dosed simplicity. In the 20th century, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe famously gave the movement new impetus with his motto ‘Less is more’.
However, in the 1970s, lavish furniture and opulent decoration were the thing. It wasn't until the 1990s that a minimalist style was reinvented with the emergence of loft living. It continues to be a positive antidote to digital overstimulation.
In hotels, minimalism means offering guests a place of tranquillity which consciously favours reduction with the aim of really appreciating the things that matter.
We all share this feeling: The world is fast and loud and colourful, everyday life is challenging. We strive to find peace and serenity in our spare time. Also when on holiday, also in hotels. Instead of an overwhelming wealth of colours and decorations, we need rooms that breathe. Designt in soft colours, with natural materials and clear lines that are soothing rather than distracting.
Spaces where all superfluous things have been omitted, where there is room for the essential: rest, relaxation and inner peace.
Minimalism as a leitmotif
Design creating peace and quiet
There is an ever so subtle difference between boring, bare, perhaps even austere rooms and rooms that are intentionally designed following the principles of minimalism. As is generally the case in design, random decisions to omit stuff has nothing to do with deliberate concepts calming down the ambience.
Here we will explain the principles of minimalist design — for private living, but also for the interior design of hotels.
Clear lines
& the role of decoration
Spotlight on materials
Mix and match
Puristic materials such as wool, cotton, and linen are complemented by other natural materials.
Light-coloured wood, natural stone and subtly patterned fabrics are combined with glass, steel, and ceramics in order to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
An orderly structure
Where to put everything?
We all own a lot of things. Where to put them? Open shelves are replaced closed cupboards.
Important items disappear behind clear doors. Where open shelves are necessary, colour coding creates structure.
Discreetly individual
Show personality
Minimalism does not imply hiding one's character. On the contrary: simple rooms offer a real stage for statement pieces.
Highlights such as high-quality sculptures, stylish lamps or special plants add personality to the room without cluttering it.
Simple furniture
and not too much
Light and neutral colours and clear shapes define the furniture. Unique design and fine materials such as leather or wood create an atmosphere of lightness and elegance.
What's most important: think about which furniture is actually necessary and needed. Don't put furniture in the room just because you think it looks nice. Learn to accept empty spaces!
Finely tuned lighting
— a magic tool
Indirect lighting is particularly suitable for rooms with a minimalist interior design, since the luminaire itself remains invisible. It provides soft, pleasant light, while precise spotlights illuminate dark corners.
Large windows with plenty of natural light and well planned and cleverly designed lighting sources bring a sense of calm and lightness to the room.
Playing with colours
Very subtle and very skilful
A simple colour concept based on white, grey and black - that's where the journey into minimalism often starts. Of course, black and white are not the only possible colours. Any camel, caramel or brown tone and, in general, any softened tone will work. Great for use in colour drenching techniques. (Read our blog on this: Colour Drenching.)
Carefully selected colour accents animate the ambience and create the right atmosphere. One cushion might be all it takes: in summer it can create a maritime atmosphere, in winter it can evoke Christmas.
Is minimalism here to stay?
Trends and perspectives
Is minimalism here to stay? Looks like it. The trend towards calm, clear designs is ongoing. Pure and luxurious design is often simple and quiet. The important thing is to find a perfect balance of simplicity and individuality.
Certain hotels are starting to experiment with a mix of minimalist design and playful details – a subtle colour combination here, an unexpected texture there. Such accents can add personality to a room without disturbing the basic idea of reduction.
What's more, hotels regularly integrate smart technologies that don't take up any extra space and replace other things. Minimalism is not only an aesthetic concept, but also practical, sustainable and visionary.
We are looking forward to witnessing how this concept continues to evolve. Those hotels that have mastered the art of reduction demonstrate that less can definitely be more — especially when small details add a touch of individuality to the room.
One thing is clear: the desire for peace and quiet will continue to shape hotel design in the coming years.
Photos: karinpasterer.com, home INTERIOR