When you’re beginning a home reno project, having a clear view of your style can make the decision making process much easier. I’ve picked three styles to review, minimalism, mid-century modern and maximalism. Let’s jump in!

MINIMALISM:

This style trend rose to prominence after the second world war as part of the larger modernist arch. Minimalism has been around for a while and seems to keep persisting as one of the biggest trends in home design. Like it sounds, minimalism is about reducing down the number of visuals to create a very simple aesthetic. As one of the father’s of minimalism – the American Architect, Ludwig Miles Van Der Rohe said, “Less is more”.

Ludwig Miles van der Rohe, Architect in 20’s-50’s “Farnsworth House”

Guidelines:
Use lots of white
Light wood
Natural elements
Simple shapes
Windows/natural light

While it is clean and fresh, some people find it somewhat “stale” or “institutional” in its application. It also typically leaves out colour completely or uses it only in small doses. To create a warm and inviting minimalist space, use light wood or camel leather for furniture. You can also layer white pillows or carpets in various textures to create more warmth and homy-ness. Don’t forget to use organic shapes in your artwork to create movement and interest. You can also bring in house plants and keep the curtains open to let in lots of natural light. Voila, your serene space awaits.

MID-CENTURY MODERN:

Also known as “MCM” This one has gained popularity in the last 10 years with many furniture re-finishers scooping up old pieces from the 50’s and bringing them back to life. If you can label your old furniture as “MCM” it’s quite likely a young person will take the bait! This style trend centers around the work of designers from 1933 and 1965.  

Remember during the second world war, everyone was essentially quaranteed at home unless they were a part of the war effort.  I’ve heard this described as a “period of incubation” for this design style, particularly in countries like Denmark. You will want to research designers such as: Charles and Ray Eames, Harry Bertoia, Arne Jacobsen, George Nelson and Wagner. Their furniture and lighting are still highly coveted today with many still made in the original factories. 

Guidelines:
Iconic pieces
Highly functional items
Organic elements & materials
Period patterns or texture
Neutrals or colour, you choose

To create a space with midcentury modern influences, select your furniture and decor items from some of these iconic designers. Because of their popularity you will find many brands will mimic these original designs and offer a more competitive price point. Place a star mirror in the room, choose a bubble lamp, find ways to use the popular geometric patterns in fabric and tile. 

Sourcing original Danish pieces: Habitus in London, On.      www.habitus.ca

Complimentary competitive brands: Ikea, Structube, Rove Concepts, HAY

MAXIMALISM:

As the name suggests, maximalism is the opposite of minimalism. In this case, “more is more”.  This style celebrates everything bold and striking. It seeks to saturate itself in colour and pattern, choosing to celebrate things purely out of joy and with no necessity for function.  While this term is somewhat new, the style itself has been popping up through history in the Victorian Era, Art Deco, Rococo, Hollywood regency and the Baroque period. 

Picture courtesy of Architectural Digest

Guidelines:
Bold vibrant colours
Striking shapes
Lots of ornamentation
Pieces just for joy
Complex patterns

In the past, Maximalism was only available to the wealthy privileged few. Now it’s accessible to everyone. Start with painting a piece or two of your furniture in a bright colour. Pair it with a fun wallpaper or rug pattern. Look for interesting bold shapes for a lamp or coffee table. And top it off with some eclectic artwork. Tasteful nick nacks are also perfect, place some on the coffee table in contrasting colours or on a fireplace mantle. Think big shapes when choosing mirrors or lamps. Don’t forget the important job of editing your collection to make sure it doesn’t evolve into a “messy” look. This isn’t what you want so choose a theme of colour or pattern to keep order and consistency. Most of all, have fun!!