Your Guide to Minimalist Interior Design

Minimalism may be centered around simplicity, but the style has many nuances, and it’s helpful to know the key elements of minimalist design.

Another essential element of modern minimalist interior design is the emphasis on functionality. Unlike a Maximalist design style, Minimalism is about stripping back spaces to what we need and use because, at that point, the room becomes a sanctuary from our busy lives and allows us to focus on being present. A big focus for minimalist interiors is storage - closed storage provides for smooth, streamlined surfaces and a clutter-free environment. You can find inspiration on how to design a minimalist bedroom here.

One of the ways minimalism contributes to a harmonious and serene atmosphere is through the use of naturally derived materials and textures. Adding a few well-made, tactile pieces allows the natural beauty to shine through. It offers interest and depth when styled against the neutral color palette of the surrounding walls. The unique details found in the raw materials, for example, the grain of wood or veins of marble, give the room the character and quiet intrigue we associate with this calming interior design style without adding countless accessories.

Minimalism as an interior design style means creating a space that improves your mood by removing excess and complication; how successful this is depends on the interaction of lines, shapes, and forms in the space. The lines could be straight, right-angled, arched or geometric, found in the furniture, furnishings, or within subtle minimalist wallpaper. Similarly, adding features inspired by more organic forms adds a softness to the space that helps create a sense of peace and tranquillity.

There are a lot of similarities between modern and minimalist decor, as both reject embellishment and excess and prefer functional furniture placed within modestly decorated, open-plan, light-filled rooms. Modernism preceded minimalism, but they still co-exist today and have some notable differences. Minimalism prioritizes function and simplicity, whereas modernism embraces using certain materials, fabrics, and accessories based on the feeling and atmosphere they can create. Modernist rooms may feature a pop of color, whereas minimalist spaces are generally monochromatic.

A study by Insider Intelligence looking into the rising popularity of minimalism concluded that “minimalism had been embraced during a time of economic uncertainty,” and in a poll conducted by CivicScience, 10% of the cohort of American internet users consider themselves minimalists, while 11% want to be one and 14% are actively working toward this goal.

These findings highlight the growing interest in minimalism and the desire to incorporate its principles into everyday life. At Hovia, we appreciate the clutter-free ethos of minimalism and believe the key principles of this design style is why it continues to resonate today:

It prioritises practicality - minimalism makes us think about what we actually need and use, which reduces our tendency to hoard and helps us organise our home and possessions (Marie Kondo, the Japanese organizing consultant is a great advocate of this via the KonMari Method™).

It is an environmentally savvy approach to interior design - the design style encourages us to minimise our consumption, reduce throwaway design, and credits craftsmanship by prioritising quality materials that last.

It can positively impact our mood - the stripped-back nature of the style reduces stress and allows our mind to slow down, with the neutral palette contributing to a feeling of calm.

A minimalistic approach is affordable and aspirational - minimalism is about incorporating a small number of good quality, timeless pieces that bring joy and fulfil a purpose. They don’t have to be new; they can be carefully selected vintage items that align with minimalist principles, making it a desirable style accessible to all.

Minimalism is more than just an interior design trend—it’s an intentional way of creating spaces that promote clarity, calm, and well-being. As self-care and wellness take center stage in modern living, many are turning to minimalism to simplify their surroundings and enhance their quality of life. Its stripped-back simplicity offers a much-needed escape from the overstimulating, "always-on" outside world, proving that joy can come from calm, uncluttered spaces.

If you’re looking to bring minimalism into your home, here are a few essential tips from our Hovia design team:

To make an impact without overwhelming the space, opt for barely-there wallpaper prints in soft, muted tones. These add warmth and depth while maintaining a minimalist aesthetic. Designs like Path and Tubular are perfect examples of minimalist wall murals that create a cozy yet sophisticated ambiance.

Before decorating, put together a mood board with images of key furniture pieces, wallpaper or paint samples, and fabric swatches. This helps ensure your space stays cohesive, with a limited palette and thoughtfully chosen materials.

Minimalist interiors thrive on organization. Choose sleek, functional storage solutions with natural or smooth finishes to maintain a sense of order and serenity while keeping clutter at bay.

Be selective with furnishings and accessories—stick to a few well-chosen pieces that you truly love. This will help maintain the pared-back, minimalist look without making the space feel cold or empty.