Minimalism: Less is More, But What Does That Really Mean?
When it comes to interior design, the phrase “less is more” is practically the motto of minimalism. But if you’re like me, you might wonder—what does that really look like in a living space? Well, think clean lines, neutral palettes, and just a few well-chosen pieces of furniture. The minimalist style emphasizes simplicity and functionality, with everything in the room having a purpose.
But minimalism is more than just an aesthetic. It’s a mindset. It’s about creating spaces that feel open, airy, and uncluttered, giving you the mental space to relax. One of my favorite things about minimalist interiors is how they create a sense of calm. Walking into a minimalist room feels like a deep breath—a kind of visual decluttering that instantly soothes the mind.
The Maximalist Contrast: Filling a Space with Personality
Now, compare this with maximalism, where the rule is more is more. If minimalism strips back to essentials, maximalism adds layers of personality, color, and texture. Think bold art pieces, vibrant textiles, and unique furniture all in one room. It’s all about embracing chaos—but in a curated way.
I’ve found that maximalism works best when you have a lot of stories to tell through your décor. Your favorite books, collected art pieces, souvenirs from travels—maximalism makes room for it all. It’s a style that says, “This is who I am, and this is my life, on display.” While minimalism creates a blank canvas, maximalism paints over every inch.
How Minimalist and Maximalist Styles Can Coexist
It’s easy to assume that minimalism and maximalism are polar opposites. But they don’t have to be mutually exclusive. In fact, some of the most interesting spaces I’ve seen are those that successfully mix the two. For example, a minimalist room can benefit from a touch of maximalist flair—maybe a bold art piece or an oversized, patterned rug to anchor the space.
On the flip side, maximalist spaces can benefit from minimalist foundations. When there’s a bit of breathing room between your statement pieces, it allows the eye to rest and appreciate each element without feeling overwhelmed. It’s all about striking a balance that feels right for you.
Why Minimalism Works in Small Spaces
If you’re living in a smaller home or apartment, minimalism is probably your best friend. The fewer items you have, the bigger your space feels. I often recommend minimalist design to clients who want to maximize their square footage—because when you keep things simple, you’re allowing your space to breathe.
Furniture with clean lines, neutral colors, and multi-functional pieces are key here. A sofa that doubles as a bed, or a sleek coffee table with hidden storage, can help you keep things tidy without sacrificing comfort. In small spaces, less clutter equals more room to move and live.
Maximalism for the Bold and the Brave
On the flip side, if you have a larger home—or simply love bold statements—maximalism can bring a lot of life to your space. I often see maximalism as a fun design style for those who love expressing their personality through their home décor. The key is to make sure your collection of items tells a cohesive story.
Maximalism can be tricky because if you’re not careful, your space can quickly feel overwhelming. I always advise starting with a neutral base—walls, flooring, and larger furniture—and building up your maximalist elements gradually. This ensures that every item you bring into the room has a purpose and fits into the overall design scheme.
CABIN ART’s Approach to Design
At CABIN ART, we believe that great design is about more than just following trends—it’s about creating a space that reflects your unique personality and lifestyle. Whether you lean towards the clean simplicity of minimalism or the vibrant chaos of maximalism, our approach blends form and function seamlessly. We’re all about helping you create spaces that are not only beautiful but meaningful too.
In our designs, we often incorporate minimalist elements to ground a space, allowing key pieces of art or furniture to truly stand out. It’s all about finding that perfect balance between restraint and expression. And that’s what makes a space feel alive—when every piece serves a purpose, yet the room still feels full of life.