Minimalism is a term used to describe a design style that follows the “less is more” principle. When someone says that a room is minimalist in design, that means it only contains the essentials needed to create a clutter-free look. This results in a room that looks spacious and effortlessly organised, making it a popular design choice for those aiming to achieve that elegant simplicity. This versatile design principle can also be applied to various parts of your home, such as your kitchen and bathroom.
If you’re planning to give your bathroom’s design an overhaul sometime soon, a minimalist style may just be the perfect fit for the project. Here are some tips on how to get started with designing your own minimalist bathroom.
A key principle in minimalist design is to choose elements that make for a functional space. You want to build a functional bathroom where all the items and fixtures serve a purpose rather than just being there to fill in the space. In addition to your main bathroom fixtures, such as the sink, toilet, and shower, choose furniture that can help make the space less cluttered as well.
For example, have cabinets installed as a place to put in toiletries, skincare products, and other items instead of just leaving them out in the open. Better yet, have these things placed under your sink to save you more space. For optimal placement of your bathroom fixtures, try consulting bathroom renovations Auckland professionals to provide you with a layout that’s both functional and tailored specifically to your bathroom’s layout.
Space is another important element in minimalism, as it goes hand in hand with the uncluttered look it embodies. However, this can be difficult if your bathroom is small to begin with. Going for an open bathroom layout can help achieve this despite the space restrictions. Rather than using shower curtains, utilise frameless glass enclosures to create that sense of space while still having a division between the wet and dry areas of your bathroom.
Strategically placed mirrors can similarly create the illusion of space and make even a modest bathroom look roomy. It also contributes to making the room look brighter as it reflects light, thus allowing you to maximise any form of lighting you have in your bathroom.
Neutral shades such as white, grey, black, and beige are popular picks for minimalist rooms. While some enjoy the sense of calm and tranquillity that these colours evoke, others may find that using only these shades can make their bathroom look too plain or drab. If you agree with this idea, then you can always try adding another colour as an accent. A dash of dark green or deep orange can create a visually appealing contrast without breaking the minimalist aesthetic you’re going for.
Alternatively, you may also choose to have an accent wall that serves as the focal point of your bathroom. The accent wall can feature a splash of vibrant colour or an interesting tile pattern, just enough for it to catch the eye but not so much that it overwhelms the serene look established by your neutral shades.
To prevent your minimalist bathroom from looking too clinical, balance things out by adding natural elements. Wooden furnishing, for instance, can add a touch of warmth and colour to your bathroom. Similarly, the greenery from potted plants stands out well among the subdued colours in the room, drawing the eyes into its soothing presence.
Natural elements can also introduce unique textures to your bathroom. The wood grain patterns on your cabinet, for example, provide a nice contrast against the smooth white tiles on your walls. This subtle play with textures creates an interesting focal point despite the sparse decorative elements in your bathroom.
Lighting is another crucial aspect of a minimalist space. You want to stick to the essentials, so having minimal lighting would be best so long as it properly illuminates the room. You can’t go wrong with a pendant lamp as they usually come in simple yet elegant designs. Be particular about the material of the lighting fixture as well—opt for glass, brass, or metal for a sleek look that won’t clash with the rest of your bathroom.
That being said, try to maximise the available natural lighting as well. If your bathroom has a window or skylight, don’t cover it up and let the sunlight in instead. Natural light brings warmth to your bathroom and can even be a cost-effective lighting option.
A bathroom is an important part of any home. More than just a place for your personal hygiene routine, it can also be a space to enjoy momentary solitude and relaxation. Having a minimalist bathroom can help create a more soothing and welcoming space for you while also ensuring it remains functional for your everyday needs. Hopefully, the points discussed in this article will inspire you to choose a minimalist style for your next bathroom renovation project.