Why and how to create space

Have you ever looked at your busy and full home and felt a bit overwhelmed? Does the jumble of your kids’ rooms or closets feel chaotic? Maybe it’s time to take a page from the minimalists and clear away that excess stuff from your house.

Of course, minimalism is about more than throwing things out and painting everything white. The minimalist approach is about creating the necessary space, both physically and mentally, to enable you to focus on what is truly important to you.

By minimalizing your home, or certain aspects of it such as a master bedroom, you can create a space that is organized, calm and contains only things that are relevant to you.

Doesn’t that sound peaceful? That’s because it is. Studies show that getting rid of excess “stuff,” helps us be more creative and gain a sense of freedom.

Admittedly, maybe it’s not realistic to change our philosophical approach to living, but here are a few things we can all do to make our homes feel less cluttered and confining.

Start at the beginning

The first step is to decide what areas of your home you want to focus on. Maybe you want to attack the biggest room or perhaps the messiest; it could be that you need to create a better sanctuary for yourself. Whatever the case, taking it one room at a time can feel less overwhelming. 

Make room for change by decluttering

It goes without saying that reducing clutter is the most important and most difficult part of the process. But once you have made that decision, it can be freeing. Focus on what you’ll get out of it and not what you are saying goodbye to. Listen to your emotions but also be practical. If you haven’t used an item for a year, do you really need it? Do you love it? Does it hold a special place in your heart or are you just concerned that you paid good money for it? Be strong and think about your clutter-free future.

Once you’ve decided what to retain, figure out where it will go. Keep counters and tables clean; keep cupboards organized and orderly. Frequently used items can stay out, such as certain utensils in the kitchen, but limit the numbers and space they take up to maintain tidiness.

Limit colours and let the light in

It doesn’t have to be all white – light blues, creams, beiges and greys can create that calm and understated environment. Then when you do add a flash of colour, such as a cushion, it really pops. If you’re adding those brighter shades, stick with one or two and limit the dosage. Also, keep the windows bare and let the light shine in. Heavy curtains are a drag, so if privacy is an issue, try to go with lighter sheer options or streamlined blinds.

Use empty spaces to create focal points

Creating a sense of space is a key aspect of minimalist décor, as the space interacts with the objects that remain and helps define a room’s look. Create balance within that new space by having a focal point – so maybe a coffee table with one unique, colourful item or an eye-catching piece of art over a couch.

Avoid too many patterns and focus on textures

A busy carpet near a floral couch by some patterned curtains is a lot to take in. A minimalist approach typically limits the number of patterns or opts to avoid them altogether. If you are using prints, make them a somewhat unobtrusive pattern or tone-on-tone. Essentially a print should be used as the accent piece for a room. The bigger the room and the larger the space, the more you can get away with. Even a patterned rug can work if the rest of the room is fairly muted.

Textures can add that spark that you might be seeking from a pattern. A fuzzy blanket and a velvet chair can certainly mix things up. In a bedroom, you might try an upholstered headboard or some textured wallpaper for a little bit of refreshing appeal.

One of the best parts about creating a more minimal space is that it’s easier to clean. Because you’ll be more intentional about what you are bringing into your streamlined space, you won’t be buying so much “stuff,” which will be easier on your wallet – and the planet! If you do buy something new, replace something else that’s already there by donating, selling or recycling it and keep the clutter at bay.

For other home ideas or more information on any part of buying, selling or moving in the Comox Valley, please contact me, check out my website or visit my Facebook page.