Going Minimalist In Minimal Steps

Follow this cheat sheet to breathe minimalist life into any space in three easy steps:

1. Choose a limited color palette. Choose one or two solid, soothing shades to use throughout your home. Tan and white always work; so do soft colors, like washed-out blue or sandy brown. Then, make it interesting by sprinkling in a reserved handful of vibrant accent colors, textures, patterns, and materials.

2. Establish a focal point. Assess each room, and choose one special, prominent item - a piece of vintage or antique furniture, a handmade quilt, a fireplace - to serve as the central focus. Let the rest of the space be a subtle setting for that single gem with quiet, functional furnishings and decor.

3. Let there be light. When you’re stripping down the essentials, lighting and other basics need to be extra lovely. Choose artful modernist pendants, chandeliers, or sconces that illuminate the clean lines of each carefully curated room.

Updating the Tradition

Here’s how to give iconic Lowcountry decor a modern twist without sacrificing any of it’s Southern Charm.

Traditional Lowcountry

• Wrought-Iron Chandeliers

• Floral Damask Rugs

• Heavy Drapes

• Dark Wood Tables With Turned Legs & Bases

Modern Lowcountry

• Iron Light Fixtures & Lantern Cages

• Tan Sisal Rugs Bound in Charcoal Canvas

• Light-FIltering, Loosly Woven Wooden Blinds

• Traditional Tables Painted Black for a Fresher Look

For more about low clutter living, read here.