Some people perceive minimalism as bland, boring, and hyper-modern. However, it actually has a long list of benefits. Minimalism encourages homeowners to embrace what's really important and to eliminate anything that only functions as a distraction.
Minimalism is not for everyone. However, if you're looking for a simpler environment, we have some useful tips on how to create a minimalist home.
1. Identify your needs
The very first step you need to take is to determine what you need to keep and what you need to eliminate. Think thoroughly about the things you can let go of. This may take some time, but it is essential.
The best way to do this is to roam around and check each room in your home. Identify the things you can genuinely live without.
2. Start one room at a time
Changing your home into a minimalist one is a process that requires focus and attention. You should focus on one room at a time. Don't pressure yourself in completely changing the entire house in one swoop. Most of the time, jumping around results in chaos.
Choose which room or part of the house you plan to start with, then work on it. You can use that room as an inspiration to the next room you'll be working on.
3. Identify the essentials and clear flat surfaces
Check the pieces of furniture or other accessories you have in the room. Identify the essentials from rarely used and space-hogging things and furniture. If you can live without it, remove it. Your main goal here is to determine what you really need in that specific room.
Another thing that you need to prioritize is keeping most of the flat surfaces clear. If there are plenty of unnecessary décor in your walls or floor, it is best to keep it out of sight. Important decorations, of course, will be an exception.
Your floor should be free from clutter, anything stacked, and nothing should be stored. After you finish identifying your room's essentials, it's time to unclutter your floor. You can keep the things you don't need somewhere else that is out of sight.
4. Limit collections and keep decorations simple
Collections take up a big space, no matter what it is. They also create clutter. If you like to collect something, let's say CDs and books, try to limit it to a couple of shelves only.
It's also important to keep only simple decors. Coffee tables, for example, take up a few spaces in a room. If it's not necessary, then get rid of it. If you prefer a spacious and open room, we recommend placing only one or two simple décor pieces on any given surface.
5. Smart storage
Rarely-used items should be stored away. You can use boxes or plastic bins to organize the things you need to store. You can keep them in the basement or garage if you think you will still need them in the future.
Creating and maintaining a minimalist home is never easy. To successfully do this, you need to accept that minimalism is both a process and a lifestyle. We hope that with the simple process we mentioned above, you get to realize what matters and what's just a material taking unnecessary space in your home.
