Somehow the term ‘minimalist’ became synonymous with white, empty, almost cold spaces. Why this happened is an absolute shame, because there is so much more to the idea of minimalism than following someone else’s aesthetics – especially if you’re aiming for a colorful minimalist home!
Being a minimalist should be about having only what serves a purpose in your life, (nurtures a physical or emotional need, gives shelter or sustenance, helps with a task, etc) so that you may focus on whatever else you truly value in life.
Of course, there’s no manual on how to be a minimalist, but if there were, it would not specify that you must have a sterile environment! I, for one, LOVE color and I think most people do. So how to show your love for color while still maintaining a sleek, minimal look? Here are a few ideas!
Throw Pillows
Throw pillows are the perfect way to express your love of color, while giving you the ability to change things up. Plus, pillowcases are relatively easy to sew, so you’re never limited to what’s available in stores. Whether you’re into the Pantone Color Of The Year or some wacky print you found at JoAnn’s, (or these snazzy ones from Society6), pillows are an awesome way to add a pop of color.
Plants
There’s nothing that makes a plant look lusher than a bright white space. (And nothing that makes a space look fresher than some greenery! It’s a win-win).
There’s nothing that makes a space look fresher than some greenery. (And nothing that makes a plant look “lusher” than a bright white space! It’s a win-win). So if you’re the type of minimalist (or aspiring minimalist) who digs white on white on white on white, then consider adding a splash of green in the form of a fern or succulent. A white glossy or solid color pot is a good place to start. 😉
1. @erinroberts.design 2. @hannahpuechmarin
Bedspreads
I’m personally a huge fan of white bedding. If anything in my home is going to be full-on white, it’s my bedspread. But that’s in large part because my bedroom walls are dark and don’t get a ton of natural light. If your bedroom is on the minimal side with some decent natural lighting, then buying a colorful bedspread or duvet cover might be the perfect way to add some cheer and personality to your room.
We totally embraced this look in the rooms at our Inn (below) and I’m loving how bright they look! (You can buy the bedding here!)
Doors
We’ve all seen how painting exterior doors can transform a home, but rarely do we see interior doors with a pop of color. Why not? If your décor is at a minimum, try tossing a coat of paint on bedroom or bathroom doors. Better yet, consider color blocking for a fun, modern spin.
1. Paper & Stitch 2. Sherwin Williams 3. House of Turquoise
Artwork
Minimalist homes are the perfect place to showcase art. It’s kind of a no-brainer, but nothing makes a colorful piece of art stand out like a sleek, white wall. Have you ever seen a professional artist or photographer’s portfolio? The pages themselves are plain…boring even. It’s the same reason museums are often void of interesting furniture or fixtures: So you can focus FULLY on the ART. Strip away the distractions and the artwork on your walls will shine.
Accent wall
Accent walls can be tricky in a minimalist home. The biggest mistake people make with accent walls is cluttering them up with additional layers of décor. I prefer to see colorful accent walls used as directional queues, with little to no artwork. Consider adding a splash of color to a hallway, leading up the stairs, or near your entryway. (The diagonal wall below was my inspiration for our nursery, which you can peek at here!)
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Did I miss anything? Let me know what other ways you like to bring color and style into your minimalist home!