Minimalism at its core is an aesthetic philosophy with emphasis on simplicity, clean lines, and functionality. It is a popular style that is trending for the last few years with no signs of slowing down. By following the basics of this design you can transform your space into a calming and serene oasis.
In this blog, we will discuss the basics of creating a minimalist bathroom experience that promotes relaxation and well-being.
What is a Minimalist Bathroom Decor?
Before we move further and explain how to achieve a minimalist bathroom decor, let’s understand this interior design concept.
In simple words, minimalism can be defined with 3 words i.e. functionality, neutrality, and simplicity!
Focus on Simplicity: Simplicity is at the heart of a minimalist bathroom. You will need to focus on uncluttered surfaces, clean lines, and a minimal amount of decorations. The use of limited colours is another hallmark of minimalist design that creates uniformity and a serene ambiance.
Embrace Functionality: You will be focusing on essentials where everything serves a purpose. Think about uncluttered countertops, compact and sleek designs, and open shelving. Anything you incorporate into the bathroom should be functional and stylish at the same time.
Natural Light & Neutral Colours: Natural light is crucial in creating a sense of spaciousness in the bathroom. Interior design experts recommend maximising the use of natural light with unobstructed windows or skylights (in bathrooms with no windows). Prefer neutral colour pallets such as white, beige, or grey further enhance the feeling of openness and serenity.
Achieving a Minimalist Bathroom Look: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Declutter & Simplify
A minimalist bathroom look always starts with decluttering and simplifying things. Begin ruthlessly decluttering your space, discard expired products, unused towels, and decorative items that are no longer necessary.
Organise Remaining Essentials: Organization is key when decluttering the bathroom. That’s where you will need a storage solution. So, invest in a type of storage that blends with a minimalist aesthetic. Floating-style vanity units, built-in cabinets, or under-the-sink organisers are a perfect way to keep toiletries.
Step 2: Choose Simple Fixtures and Fittings
Modern Fixtures with Clean Lines: Modern fittings and fixtures are designed with minimalist aesthetics. Prefer a wall-hung toilet and vanity units instead of their floor-standing counterparts. From modern taps that have a single handle for maximum efficiency to square or tall designs, everything should contribute to overall aesthetics and functionality without requiring a lot of bathroom space.
Wall-Mounted or Pedestal Sinks: To make the design less complicated, many experts recommend preferring a wall-hung or pedestal sinks over a traditional floor standing vanity unit. This frees up floor space and contributes to the spaciousness of your bathroom.
Step 3: Opt for a Neutral Colour Palette
Benefits of Neutrals:
Minimalist bathrooms almost always have neutral colours. To ensure consistency you can pick no more than three colours in your scheme. Preferred colour pallets can have white, grey, sky blue, and beige. Your focus should be on creating a calm and spacious ambiance when choosing the colour scheme. These neutral shades create a clean background making the bathroom fittings and fixtures a highlight of the space.
Adding Depth with Texture:
Your neutral colour palette should have the right mix of similar and contrasting colours, shades, and textures. For example, you can create an accent wall to add depth and visual interest to the space. White walls with light grey subway tiles can create a great visual impact. You can choose any colour of the floor to complement the wall paint.
Step 4: Embrace Natural Light and Openness
Maximise Natural Light:
Natural lights are a preferred source of lighting for a minimalist bathroom. You strategically place a mirror in front of a window to reflect the light in the bathroom. There should not be anything obstructing the window. In case there is no window, you can opt for skylights to let natural light into the space. Layered lighting can be a suitable strategy for a minimalist bathroom. LED mirrors can also provide a secondary source of lighting that enhance the available space.
Privacy with Transparency: In case you are concerned with privacy and transparency in your minimalist bathroom, sheer curtains or frosted glass on the windows can be helpful. They provide privacy without sacrificing the benefits of natural light.
Step 5: Install a Compact Toilet
Back-to-Wall Toilets and Concealed Cisterns: Back to wall toilets with a concealed cistern either in the wall or WC toilet unit contributes to minimalist aesthetics. These require minimal space for fitting which helps you to save space in the bathroom. There are no bulky bases and unsightly pipes that are perfect for a minimalist bathroom look.
Selecting a Toilet and Cistern: In case you don't want to opt for a back to wall, pick a close coupled toilet with a shorter projection. These are sleek, narrow bottoms creating a minimalist look. Such toilets are available in various shapes and sizes. So, check what goes best for your bathroom aesthetics and available space.
Installation Considerations: The installation of compact toilets including back to wall toilets or one that fits on the wall (wall-hung toilets) is no different from the standard toilets. If it is the wall concealed toilet cistern then a professional will be required for assistance. However, close-coupled toilets and back to wall toilets with WC units are relatively simple and easier to install.
Step 6: Focus on Functionality
Multi-Functional Furniture and Accessories:
Since minimalist bathrooms focus on functionality more than aesthetics, it is important to ensure every element that you use in the bathroom serves a purpose. That means there should not be anything unnecessary and unused. You can even choose fittings and fixtures that offer dual functionality. For example, a vanity unit with a sink or cloakroom toilet with sink will eliminate the need for a separate basin. A medicine cabinet provides storage space as well as a reflection. And an LED illuminated mirror can be a secondary source of light while offering a clear reflection for grooming activities.
Step 7: Use Minimalist Decor and Accessories
A Touch of Personality:
Having clutter free and minimalist space does not mean there should not give your space a touch of personality. Experts recommend pieces of artwork and design at various places to reflect your personal style.
Minimalist-Friendly Decor: Another way to decorate a minimalist bathroom is by adding geometric mirrors, simple artwork in neutral tones, or a single well-placed vase with a few stems offering the perfect way to give space a personal touch.
Conclusion
A minimalist bathroom is all about creating a space that brings a sense of calm and serenity. You can create it by focusing on clean lines functionality and natural lights. It's not just about aesthetics but promoting relaxation and self care. You can experiment with various elements that help declutter and simplify the space. So, embrace the minimalist design and discover the serenity that awaits you.
