/EN/ How to make a minimalistic interior look cozy

First of all, I would love to claim that I don't call myself a minimalist. While I don't see myself as a true follower, I still use this philosophy as a tool to make my life more organized, free and much less complicated. Whether I think about my job, food, interior or possessions, I like to (or more precisely try to) apply the principles everywhere. So what is minimalism anyway? Generally, the simplest definition would probably be that it is a way of getting rid of all potential things and aspects of life that bring the negative, complication, trappings or overwhelm. It sounds quite illogical to have these things in life, right? But with the complexity existing in this world brings, it is very easy to get lost in these pitfalls. 

For me, the easiest and probably the most natural place where to start with a little minimalism, was my home. It was not just about reducing the number of objects, it was about thinking more carefully about buying something or not. It's true that the whole movement around Marie Kondo helped me a lot. Anyway, this article is not about organizing and giving up stuff. I mean to talk about how to feel cozy in a let's say minimalist interior.

Since there are many styles of interior, it is sometimes difficult to define one. I like to think about a minimalist interior in a broader sense. In design it is the absence of clutter and many decorative objects with no other purpose. It means sticking to simple forms, lines, textures and materials. But there is no restriction as to how many things you can have in such an interior or what materials and colours you should use. At times such an interior might feel a little "cold". Let's have a look at a few simple steps to make it feel more pleasing without incorporating too many of anything.

Different shapes evoke different feelings. Minimalism generally uses straight lines and sharp edges to accomplish a very composed and clean look. Using circular, tubular and oval shapes helps soften the rigid look. I believe there should be a balance between these two types of forms. Use a round coffee table to go with your linear sofa or incorporate a simple round chandelier to refine otherwise minimalistic expression. Choose minimalistic chairs with curving backrests and round practical objects. 

What colours are considered minimalistic anyway? Here, again, since less is more, you won't see wild combinations of colours in minimal interiors. Instead, the palette usually consists of basic tones being accompanied with earthy and natural hues. The tone-in-tone technique will allow being more creative with colours and help achieve coziness. Also, try using natural less intense tones, such as beige, off-whites, light green, etc.

Minimalistic interiors sometimes like to use large shiny surfaces. If you want to avoid it looking sterile, avoid too many polished materials. Matt outsides with simple natural textures will do the trick. 

Do you think that curtains are a no-no in such an interior? What about using simple linen ones which will add beautiful texture while maintaining a simple look? The room will still look very simple but with textiles it will seem more welcoming.

Slightly textured wood, matte white and beige marble, and ceramics - all of these are very minimalistic in their nature but will add warmth into the interior.

• Think about composition

Composition of an interior is often an overlooked aspect. Incorporating varied composition in terms of height will make the room appear more sophisticated. While there should definitely be some harmony when it comes to heights of furnishings, adding objects of different sizes and heights will bring a more homely feeling.

Grouping simple coffee and side tables, pedestals, or artistic objects of various heights will provide a sense of character and pleasantness.

• Think about wall art

Wall art is probably a natural choice when bringing coziness into a home. If you opt for keeping white walls, you might feel the need to adorn them in another way. Choosing abstract paintings, simple photography or graphic illustrations is probably the easiest way of making the room seem homey. Whether you want to have a gallery wall or a solitaire piece, wall art should not be left out.

• Think about light fittings

Here it is not just about the shape of lamps, it is about positioning them in any corners of the room that need them. It is a known fact that various sources of light contribute to the general warm feeling so overlooking the number of them will not help. Also, the technique of bringing the lamps lower within your sight is a great way of adding depth - try using pendant lamps instead of ceiling fittings over your dining and coffee. Install scones and wall lamps with mobile arms over your sofa. If you like simple pendant lamps, group them in numbers. You can't go wrong here.