Minimaluxe: interface of minimalism and luxury in interior design

Minimalux and New Neutrals: A New Era of Interior Design

Modern interior design has taken a new direction, combining minimalism with luxurious elements. This movement – ​​often referred to as “Minimaluxe” – focuses not only on clean lines and reduced forms, but also on warm, neutral colors that bring coziness and elegance to the living space.

Let's delve into this fascinating world and discover how minimalism and warming neutrals can transform your home into an oasis of calm and style.

The origins of Minimalux

Minimalist design principles have their roots in Japanese culture , particularly in the concept of “Ma,” which emphasizes the importance of space and emptiness. The aesthetics of minimalism became popular in the Western world in the 1960s, spearheaded by architects such as Ludwig Mies van der Rohe , whose motto “less is more” captures the essence of this movement.

Less is more

In recent years, this purism evolved and transformed into a more luxurious approach. The result is Minimaluxe (also called Minimalux). This development was driven by a desire for functional elegance and understated splendor.

Characteristic features of the new residential design

In one sentence:

Minimaluxe emphasizes the luxury of space and simple, yet high-quality materials that subtly enhance the ambiance.”

This design philosophy places a strong emphasis on quality and focuses on the appeal of simplicity as well as the integration of elegant elements. It is interpreted as a touch of luxury, underpinned by a restrained color palette that highlights soft textures, shapes, and hues.

Minimalux has emerged as a significant trend in interior design since 2020, gradually establishing itself as a fully-fledged aesthetic movement. At its core is the idea of ​​visually decluttering to highlight the elements that evoke a wonderful sense of joy – a truly luxurious approach to showcasing the objects that are most dear to you.

Minimalux, however, goes beyond mere visual simplicity; it also incorporates tactile materials that enrich the living experience. Think bouclé , soft linen , and untreated wood – a harmonious blend of smooth and naturally rough textures that creates an inviting atmosphere.

In her house tour, US actress Cara Santana the Minimaluxe style in her home in the Hollywood Hills:

New Neutrals: More than just beige

While traditional minimalism is often associated with cool, monochromatic palettes, Minimaluxe brings warmth and comfort to a room. Beige , taupe , cream tones , and earthy colors create a calming atmosphere that invites relaxation. These tones are anything but boring; they offer a rich variety of nuances and textures that make a room vibrant and inviting.

Fun Fact: The color beige was first used in the fashion world in the 19th century and originally comes from the French word for “natural wool”.

The psychology behind neutral color tones

Colors profoundly influence our mood and well-being.

Calming effect

Neutral tones like cream, taupe, and beige have a calming effect on the nervous system. They help reduce stress and create a peaceful environment. These colors act as a canvas upon which other, more intense accents can be placed.

Colors like beige and cream create a feeling of security and comfort. They are low in visual stimulation and make it easier for the eye to relax. This is particularly noticeable in rooms intended for relaxation, such as bedrooms or living rooms.

warming neutrals are surprisingly versatile. They harmonize well with almost any other color and can be easily integrated into existing color schemes. The real art, however, lies in thoughtfully and stylishly setting accents, such as through striking artwork or stylish furniture.

Psychological background: According to color psychology, soft, neutral tones can lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone) in the body. This promotes a state of calm and can even improve sleep quality.

Promoting communication and concentration

Neutral colors like taupe and sand promote a calm and focused atmosphere, which is particularly beneficial in work and study areas. They act as a backdrop for focused work and prevent color-psychological distractions.

Psychological background: Research studies show that neutral colors can promote the production of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, which are important for mood and cognitive function.

Improvement of spatial perception

Warm neutral colors can visually enlarge rooms. They reflect natural light better, making rooms appear brighter and more spacious. This contributes to a feeling of freedom and less confinement in these rooms.

Psychological background: Narrow and dark spaces can increase feelings of isolation and claustrophobia, while bright, open spaces promote feelings of freedom and openness.

Universal attraction

Neutral colors have a universal appeal because they appear neither too masculine nor too feminine, neither too modern nor too traditional. These colors are able to appeal to broad demographic groups and offer a sense of harmony and unity.

Psychological background: Colors like beige and cream are culturally neutral and have no negative connotations, making them a safe choice for public and private spaces.

Emotional warmth

Despite their understated nature, warm neutrals radiate a subtle emotional warmth. They create a welcoming environment that is emotionally supportive. This is particularly beneficial in communal spaces such as the dining room or kitchen.

Psychological background: Warm colors can promote the production of oxytocin, known as the "cuddle hormone", which supports social bonding and trust.

Flexibility and versatility

Neutral color palettes offer great flexibility and are easy to combine with other colors. They essentially act as a "canvas" on which accent colors or decorative elements can be highlighted without disrupting the harmony of the room.

Psychological background: The ability to add accents in more vivid colors can stimulate the brain and boost creativity, while the neutral base colors maintain balance and stability.

Textures and materials: The key to Minimalux

Simple shapes and neutral colors alone don't create a minimalist interior. What truly matters is the quality of the materials and the variety of textures. Think soft wool rugs, smooth marble tables, luxurious velvet cushions, and warm wood elements. By combining different textures, you create visual and tactile interest without making the room feel cluttered.

For example , a caramel-colored leather sofa set with buttoned Chesterfield upholstery can be complemented with a burlwood coffee table and cashmere throws. A wood-burning stove with a white brick finish, a textured rug, and a metal wall sculpture in gold and silver tones create the perfect contrast and add another interesting layer to the interior.

The magic of light and shadow

Lighting plays a crucial role in Minimaluxe design. Natural light should be maximized to bring out the colors and textures of the room. Large windows, light curtains, and strategically placed mirrors help to distribute the light throughout the space.

, dimmable lamps are ideal for creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Accent lighting can highlight artwork and architectural details.

Fun fact: Did you know that the human eye perceives colors best in natural light? This explains why designers so often prioritize maximum daylight.

Minimalux in different rooms

Living room

The living room is often the heart of the home and an ideal place to celebrate the Minimaluxe style. A large, comfortable sofa in a neutral tone can be complemented with textile decorations and a unique yet simple coffee table.

A rug in a warm, neutral color adds coziness to the room.

bedroom

The bedroom should be a peaceful retreat. Choose bedding made from natural materials in soft colors. A minimalist bedside lamp and understated wall art create a harmonious atmosphere.

Textures also play an important role here: A cozy, warming throw can perfectly complement the ambiance.

Kitchen and dining area

Minimalism can be expressed in the kitchen through clean work surfaces and high-quality materials. Wood and stone are ideal partners in this space. A solid wood dining table, combined with simple chairs, creates the desired effect.

Open shelving made of metal or wood can offer practical storage space and also serve as a design element.

bathroom

The Minimaluxe style can also create a relaxing spa-like atmosphere in the bathroom. Natural stone sinks, matte black faucets, and towels in warm, neutral tones create a luxurious yet understated aesthetic.

Expert tips for implementation

We would like to take this opportunity to thank our experts for providing insights and advice on this exciting interior design trend:

• Jack Lorge , owner of Rolli Shades and an expert in combining functionality and aesthetics, specializes in luxury interior design. His approach is deeply influenced by the desire to create spaces that are both visually stunning and extremely comfortable, making him a leading voice in trends such as Minimaluxe.
• Jonathan Faccone , interior designer and founder of Halo Homebuyers . He has helped numerous clients fulfill their housing dreams and transform them into beautiful, functional homes, with many years of experience in remodeling, DIY, and home organization.
• Alex Locklear , interior designer and founder of NC Cash Homebuyers, has over 15 years of experience in interior design, home organization, and interior architecture . He has also helped numerous clients in the USA transform their living spaces into the homes of their dreams.
• Spacejoy , an online interior design platform hailed by top publications as one of the industry's leading platforms, features experts who create stunning designs and curate high-quality items tailored to their clients' individual style and functional needs. We were fortunate enough to use numerous visually impressive examples for this article. Thank you!

Tip 01: Warm neutral tones as a base

Using neutral colors as a base opens up a wide range of possibilities for adding colorful accents with accessories, artwork, or furniture. The warmth of neutral colors helps to soften the intensity and create a visually appealing and harmonious space.

Adapt your warm, neutral color palette to the base color and incorporate both lighter and darker tones within this spectrum for walls, furniture, and even key elements like curtains.

Once the basic color scheme is established, you can add small touches. Consider a colorful cushion, a striking chair, or an eye-catching sofa. Experiment with vibrant elements such as a colorful rug, a striking lamp, or a carefully curated collection of accessories.

For a natural elegance, one or two elegant houseplants could be the perfect addition, or you could choose to design a single object in a bold color to enhance the visual impact of your room.

Tip 2: Focus on quality, not quantity

In the world of Minimaluxe, less truly is more. Instead of cluttering a room with a multitude of furniture and decorations, the focus is on selecting a few outstanding pieces of excellent quality. Opt for timeless furniture designs made from premium materials that will stand the test of time.

Each element should serve a function and contribute to the overall appearance, as well as emphasize the sense of elegant simplicity that characterizes interiors in this residential design.

Tip 03: Create a feeling of serenity with our thoughtful design.

This design approach is based on the concept of a conscious lifestyle that creates spaces that convey peace and quiet. 

Experienced interior designers value a harmonious flow and the functionality of a space, where every element fulfills a clear function and contributes to the overall picture. By incorporating ample natural light, clear sightlines, and the strategic use of negative space, they create an atmosphere of quiet elegance.

Tip 4: Prioritize comfort and functionality

In Minimaluxe design, aesthetics play a central role, but it's equally important to focus on comfort and functionality. Choose furniture pieces that are not only visually appealing but also offer comfort and support.

By adding soft textiles, plush rugs, and comfortable seating, you create inviting atmospheres that encourage relaxation and reflection. Ensure a harmonious balance between form and function to guarantee that the design sustainably improves the residents' quality of life.

Tip 5: Create a tangible space

The design trend focuses on creating a tangible sense of space. Through the skillful combination of natural materials, rooms with neutral color tones gain structure, warmth, and depth.

Opt for delicate textiles like bouclé and linen for your upholstered furniture, sturdy wooden tables with a solid look, and durable materials like marble to give your room a down-to-earth feel.

Tip 06: Incorporate curved, organic lines

Minimalist spaces with a touch of luxury are characterized by soft lines and harmonious, organic shapes.

Imagine elegant branches growing out of round ceramic vessels, oversized lampshades, round tables, undulating headrests, and seating whose curved contours envelop you in warmth.

Tip 7: Accept imperfection

The Japanese philosophy of “wabi-sabi” also influences minimalist design. This concept teaches us to recognize beauty in imperfection, to accept asymmetry and roughness, to appreciate simplicity, and to accept the transience of all things.

In contrast to traditional minimalism, which favors clean lines and a smooth aesthetic, Minimalux design celebrates the naturalness of wood structures and the authenticity of fabric folds.

In a minimalist space you will find rustic, unfinished tables with natural edges, a selection of weathered antique objects and a careful arrangement of organic materials.

Tip 8: Give your space room to breathe

Although the term “minimal” often suggests a limitation of living space or a very simple interior design, Minimalux actually proves to be the exact opposite – here, the furniture is given the opportunity to shine and unfold.

In spaces of minimalist luxury, each piece is carefully selected for its practical use, aesthetic appeal, and the joy it brings you. This creates a lovingly designed atmosphere in your home.

Tip 9: Enhance with artistic details

The luxurious interior design celebrates simplicity while strategically employing subtle details to enrich the space. Carefully selected accents and artistic elements create visual interest without overwhelming the minimalist aesthetic.

Opt for striking pieces such as sculptural light sources, minimalist artworks, and fine textiles to give the room individuality and character.

Tip 10: Play with contrasts

Minimaluxe impresses with its subtle interplay of colors, shapes, and materials. Combine delicate nuances with bold accents, smooth surfaces with organically textured textiles. Imagine robust wood contrasting with elegant marble, or cozy sheepskin rugs on bare floors.

Tip 11: Optimize natural light

An essential element of minimalist design is the use of natural light. A major home renovation may require the installation of floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors or skylights. However, if you are working with existing architectural features, the windows should remain unobstructed.

To make a room brighter, it is recommended to place a large mirror near a natural light source. This trick has long been one of the most proven methods to make rooms appear larger and more light-filled.

A few words about transience and sustainability

An often overlooked aspect of Minimalux is sustainability. The emphasis on quality, rather than quantity, means that furniture and decorative elements are durable. It's about selecting timeless pieces that are not only stylish but also last for years.

Sustainability can also be achieved by choosing natural materials. Wood from sustainable forestry , recycled marble , or fair-trade textiles are not only environmentally friendly but also contribute to a healthier living environment.

Fun Fact: The “Cradle to Cradle” principle, in which products are designed so that they can be fully recycled at the end of their service life, is gaining increasing importance in the design spectrum and fits perfectly with the principles of Minimalux.

How do you find high-quality pieces?

Finding the right pieces takes time and patience. Browse antique shops, art auctions , premium flea markets, or online boutiques for unique, high-quality items.

It's not just about buying things, but about building a collection that tells your personal story and brings you joy.

Concluding thoughts

Minimal luxe and warming neutrals have revolutionized the way we think about interior design. They offer a perfect balance between minimalism and luxury, between simplicity and comfort.

This design philosophy is not just an aesthetic choice, but a way of life that brings peace and beauty into our everyday lives.