Less is more. It may sound cliché, but it’s true in many cases. According to Marc Schenker, “In its most stripped-down definition, minimalism is about designers expressing only the most essential and necessary elements of a product or subject by getting rid of any excessive and, therefore, unnecessary components and features”. On the other hand, modernism is associated with a strictly logical and analytical approach to design, and a strictly rational use of materials.
But there’s a distinction to be made between minimal design that lacks character, and modern minimal designs that are distinct and sophisticated. With the sheer range of products out there claiming to fall under the minimalist design category, this can get even more confusing. That’s why we’ve picked out six products to show you what’s classy and what’s not.
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Innovation meets elegance. Gaudi is a suspended luminaire inspired by classical architectural principles and developed based on LED technology. It’s sophisticated that’s bound to fit well with minimalist interior design themes. The LED light source provides a unique opportunity to produce smaller luminaires than previously possible. Gaudi is one of the first of its kind and is based on a sculptural arch that defines both the room and the direction of the light.
Designed by Marc Sadler, this collection of chairs was meant to be a platform meant to break the monotony of chair designs yet keep things simple and classy. This comfortable, high-performance base is paired with a light polycarbonate or wood backrest and is the latest addition to infinity’s Bi family.
This unique side table is minimalism personified – Cloud is made up of two different sized round tops and three legs, laser-cut from a steel plate, with the smaller top attached with a magnetic system that can be moved in different positions. The shape reminding of a cloud allows for many different configurations to meet a variety of functions and needs.
Minimal and modern with a healthy dose of funky – that’s how we’d describe secretair. This space saving desk provides ample room for your essentials plus a storage shelf integrated into the PET felt frame to accommodate accessories. Manufacturer Sedus describes it as “Light design, clear lines, and an organic shape”. The secretair home stands out due to its modern, uncluttered appearance.
Modern and minimal includes biophilia as well. An often misunderstood conception of minimalism involves rejected plants or similar design elements because of their randomness. However, it is designed right, planters fit well into minimal themes. That’s where products like Flexgreen fit so well – they can be tailored to fit your minimal and modern theme.
Minimal doesn’t mean bland and totally lacking in funk. Just look at the UPis1 from Interstuhl. Intended to be an alternative to the task chair – this intelligent multifunctional stool follows its user through spontaneous conversations and several types of interactions, keeping the user mobile and active.
