The toned-down colour palette of white, grey and black with large open spaces is appreciated for its calming effect, although portrayed as cold and uninviting to some. With this, the style saw the evolution into warm minimalism, a design concept that has its roots firmly in the parameters of the minimalist idea but expands to make way for a more inviting and personal space. This style is celebrated by many and continues to grow in popularity. We chatted to Sashya Thind, an expert in the field who shares her thoughts on warm minimalism and how we can use it in our homes.
Minimalism is a design trend that steers clear of the clutter and embraces simple shapes with eloquent lines.
For those that don’t know, please elaborate on what warm minimalism means.
Sashya Thind: The best way to describe ‘warm minimalism’ is to detail the feeling it embodies. The sense of calmness and visual clarity it makes you feel while allowing your eye to easily move across the room as curved lines and softer shades create a more personal space. Key features of warm minimalism include a warmer colour palette that embodies warm-toned shades and the various layers of textures and patterns across the decor and design. The personalised touches and curved lines through the space create an organic flow. These small yet significant changes are what differentiate warm minimalism.
How would someone incorporate colour into a minimal scheme?
Sashya Thind: Colour is not generally associated with minimal design, however, warm minimalism allows warmer shades to be included within the space. Neutrals remain the focus of this scheme but extend to include softer shades and earthy tones that can be incorporated through the furniture, wall decor or soft furnishings. Creamy whites, pale pinks, ivory, soft brown, terracotta, burnt orange or sage green all fall within the neutral tones but still push the space with enough colour to add a boost of personality.
I love to draw colour inspiration from the natural environment around us. Parks and gardens, mountainous terrain or the open ocean, I strongly believe nature is our canvas for selecting the ideal shades. By choosing your colour palette in this way, your home will reflect its surroundings to seamlessly blend with the space.
What is the best piece of advice you would give to someone who wants to include warm minimalism in their home?
The goal with this design style is all about balance. My process is rather fluid when it comes to designing with warm minimalism in mind. I tend to bring in multiple pieces that create varying textures and, as mentioned previously, draw on nature as my inspiration. I love to introduce natural plants throughout a home that create a connection with the outdoors and bring life into a room. I think people should be fearless in their approach to playing with decor elements and balance their design with functionality based on their needs.
A large part of working in this design style involves spatial planning and creating an organic flow from start to finish. Minimalism is always about simplicity in effortless gestures, but making intentional choices about what should be there and what shouldn’t.
