Sunday, October 9, 2011

Black and White and Modern All Over

Jonathan Adler has always mused that one should forgo minimalism in favor of maximalism.  I was always drawn to his idea of maximalism because it rang of the American Dream; more please.

And now, upon deeper reflection and a swan dive into Zero Waste, I'm questioning the merits of maximalism, and getting into minimalism, both in lifestyle and in design.

In honor of minimalist spaces, I've curated some inspiration.


I feel like the lighting designer needs to get real credit for this space, the uplighting from the floor being echoed by the hidden floating lighting on the ceiling is just perfect.


Wood floor, wood bench, and plant, in a shower.  Amazing.  Also love the different sized subway tiles, adds some cool optical illusion with scale.


Clean and light.


 White and black, so bold but also so peaceful.


I love this gallery space, and what happens when you put pink flowers on the table.  One of the best things about neutral spaces is that when you inject a little bit of nature, it shines.


Again, love the natural influences in this shower, the orchid is beautiful.



I love the minimalist look of these bookcases.  So much lighter than built-ins, and so inexpensive to re-create with pipes and boards!


Someone tell me where I can get those chairs! Also love the detail of the black translucent window shades, and that candelabra on the table with the black candles is ferocious!


This bed looks a little stiff to me, but I love the velvet throw pillows, the colors, and oh my, the painting.


Can't get enough of this kitchen.  Those shadow boxes make the everyday dishes look like sculpture.

So there you have some modern, minimalist inspiration.  I think our living room, kitchen, and hall, are right on track with this direction.

What do you think of the minimalist design? Too sparse for you or just right?

Reader's Note: All sources for these images can be found on my Pinterest board, Beautiful Homes.