Less is more in Minimalism

The use of simple architectural features, without ornamentation or embellishment, is a feature of minimalist architecture, often known as “minimalism”. Minimalists think that reducing a design’s substance and form to its fundamental necessities shows the true ‘spirit of architecture.’

From Ludwig Mies van der Rohe ‘s “Less is more,” he and his modernist contemporaries set the foundation for the sleek, streamlined design. Minimalism is a radical style that affects not just modern and contemporary architecture, but also interior design.

The following are some of the most important aspects of minimalist architecture.

 Clean Lines and Geometry

In architecture, the required pieces of a building are essentially its shape. Minimalism is all about reducing things to their bare basics. The building components of these structures can be reduced even further to only geometry and lines, which is exactly what minimalist architecture is made up of. Most constructions are made up of simple angles defined by clear lines that follow traditional geometric designs.

 Lack of Ornamentation

On a minimalist structure, architectural details like friezes, columns, corbels, or gables are absent. It’s all straight lines, smooth curves, and flat surfaces, which was done on purpose to draw attention to the architecture.

Simple Materials

Not only does a lack of ornamentation show up in architectural details, but it also shows up in the materials utilized. Simple materials like glass, steel, or concrete are typically utilized in minimalist architecture to avoid distracting from the structure.

Monochromatic Palette

In minimalist architecture, it’s all about removing distractions, and color is one of them. Many minimalist structures are monochrome, while some do include a few bright hues. 

Open Spaces

Many minimalist residences include stacked volumes of space in a simple, straightforward, yet efficient plan form. This results in a plan that is clear and uncomplicated, with predictable and uncomplicated places. Many minimalist floor plans have simple forms, open floor plans, minimum internal barriers, limited storage areas, and an emphasis on vistas and brightness.

The project above shows how a good minimalist house can achieve.

Forms, materials, and details should all be kept simple in a minimalist house design. It’s not about sensory deprivation, getting rid of everything you own, or mercilessly cleaning your house; it’s about choosing order, clarity, calmness, and intention. We are not living with less by focusing on a few key items, but rather bringing attention to the shape, color, and texture of those elements.

For building your dream house, an architect can help you make it into reality!

XJG Architecture is a design, management and general construction company. We prepare plans, permits, engage in construction, calculations and estimates. The staffs are composed of group of individuals from different professions and field of practice who are committed to support each other. It is composed of Architects, Engineers, skilled and well experienced non-skilled construction workers.