Embracing Simplicity: The Rise of Minimalist Design in Tampa Bay

Credits: Decorilla Interior Designer Lori D. 

By Tampa Bay Living Magazine staff

In 2023, Tampa Bay experienced a surge in the minimalist lifestyle. Increasing living costs and the desire to simplify life influenced this trend.

Minimalism design is ruled by “the less is more” philosophy.

Minimalist interior design is a concept that originated in the 1960s as part of the minimalist art movement. Minimalism is characterized by simplicity, clean lines and monochromatic palettes with color used as an accent. To that end, minimalist spaces are instantly recognizable for their crisp, clean, clutter-free looks. This design style does not just remove knick-knacks and “extras” for a dull space. Instead, it involves creating a sleek, uncluttered, functional space that exudes tranquility and sophistication.

However, minimalist design requires careful planning and execution. According to experts, designers should include only the necessary elements without compromising aesthetic appeal — balancing form and function, simplicity and complexity, and novelty and familiarity.

Creating a minimalist layout involves several fundamental principles.

Minimalism is an elusive and complex concept, encompassing the principles of modernism, contemporary design and more. Minimalists strive to create enduring and pure interior designs to draw attention to a space’s materials and form. For instance, every object has a purpose and white walls become a canvas for light, shadows and contrast.

First, remember to keep it balanced. This step helps to create harmony and coherence within the home. The balance principle can be applied to any room, from the bedroom to the kitchen to the living room. According to experts, neutral tones reduce clutter, while selectively chosen colors can evoke desired emotions within any room. For those looking to simplify their living space, clean lines provide a modern update while reducing the amount of dust and clutter that can accumulate. Experts recommend using only one or two large pieces of furniture to achieve this design.

“Large furniture pieces are an instant focal point and anchor the room. It only takes having one or two scaled-up furniture pieces to add a sense of purpose and intentionality to a space,” said Devin Shaffer, lead interior designer at Decorilla, in an interview with Tampa Bay Living Magazine. “Going this direction also helps prevent clutter and unnecessary accent furniture pieces.”

Experts also recommend including natural elements like plants to bring life to the space.

Credits: Decorilla Interior Designer Jamie M.

Second, less is more. To remove clutter, experts recommend embracing the “One In, One Out” rule, meaning an old item must be discarded when bringing a new item into the space. The "One In, One Out" rule helps to maintain the equilibrium and balance in a home, increase mindfulness of what a person owns and curb emotional buying. By monitoring the inflow and outflow of items, homeowners become more aware of what they already have and make intentional decisions when it comes to shopping.

However, experts say it’s essential to strike a balance to avoid making the space feel soulless. With this rule, homeowners can create a balanced environment and avoid clutter while still having the necessary items for their lifestyle.

Additionally, home aesthetic pieces should only add value and beauty. With fewer distractions, a minimalist aesthetic offers peaceful vibes for the home, often using neutral colors and clean lines and spaces. Natural light is also highly valued in minimalist design.

“When you have windows that showcase stunning views or offer a glimpse of nature, there's less need for excessive décor. Letting the outside scenery take center stage complements the minimalist ethos of focusing on the essential and removing the need for extra décor and clutter,” explained Shaffer.

Third, keep it simple. When selecting furniture, experts recommend fewer pieces to help create an uncluttered space. They also recommend looking for furniture with clean and smooth lines, materials that are easy to clean, simple light fixtures, monochromatic wall art, potted plants that don't flower and curtains in cream or white linen. Homeowners can add a touch of glamour with metallic embellishments and glassware. According to Shaffer, simplicity is not a compromise but a source of serenity and balance, citing inspiration from Zen principles and their increasing popularity since the COVID-19 pandemic.

“What makes this timing fascinating is that the pandemic inspired people to explore new hobbies and interests and all of a sudden you're seeing that infused in minimal designs,” said Shaffer.

Credits: Decorilla

Fourth, leave empty spaces. Empty space is an essential interior design element, allowing the eye to rest between objects and creating a sense of visual balance. Experts say empty space maximizes the potential of a room in space planning, eliminates distractions from an outstanding feature and makes a home look more aesthetically pleasing. By leaving empty space around and between furniture pieces and exploiting patterned tiles, interior designers can create balanced spaces that provide psychological comfort and a visually engaging result.

Lastly, implement a flat design. Flat layouts allow interior designers to visualize and create harmonious living spaces. The open floor plan is a popular trend combining two or more traditionally separate spaces, making the home feel larger and improving traffic flow while allowing natural light to enter. Sliding doors provide privacy as needed while maintaining the openness of the layout.

Credits: Decorilla Interior Designer Amelia R.