GET MORE FROM LESS

The minimalist architect Dieter Rams coined the term “less, but better”. Quickly summarized, he speaks of subtracting the frills to create a pure simple state, where by improving the effectiveness of the object or the design. With the cost of real estate skyrocketing, downsizing your space is becoming more appealing.

This does not distract from your space feeling homey but rather makes you appreciate your house as a home.

Your question should be, “How to make it work?” First of all, downsizing in size does not mean that you are downsizing in quality. It also does not mean that you are reducing your space to nothing but rather, that you are living with purpose lead items which are functional and aesthetic. Here are a few tips to get more from less.

Of course the first step is to declutter. In any space extra stuff seems as though you are drowning in stuff and the tendency to accumulate more stuff on top of the stuff becomes easy. Use restraint and limit the content that you visually present to the viewer. This immediately opens up the room and makes it feel bigger and airier.

Simplify your life and design smarter by reducing the number of elements in the space to the least and most essential components, then add character.

By using less, the challenge is to master having the space work the same or even better than a space with all the bells and whistles.

A simple design is more attractive than an overcrowded space but it is not intended to be devoid of personality. Embrace simplicity in the visual space of the room where form and function work hand in hand.

When creating the layout, look for what appeals to you and allow the most important pieces to stand out by giving it visual space thereby creating a focal point in the room. Your layout should give attention to, daylighting, fresh air, ease of use, approachability and lack of clutter.

The good thing about modern design is that there are materials that work with the concept of simplifying design. Also appliances and some furniture are slim-line and elegant and can fit into a smaller space.

Incorporate multi-purpose furniture and multipurpose spaces. In other words, spaces and furniture should do double duty thereby the floor space is maximized. Every square inch has to have a purpose. No, that does not mean cramming the room with stuff. Remember negative space can also serve a purpose so make it work. Always choose timeless pieces.

Simplify your colour palette but still make the space pretty.

Less indoor space can encourage you to enjoy the outdoors. With a smaller space there is less maintenance and cleaning which creates time for living in outdoor spaces.