Choosing a design aesthetic for your luxury bathroom is an important decision. What vibe are you looking to evoke? How do you use the space each day? How do you want your style preferences to be reflected in the design?
If you lean toward a pared-back, clutter-free environment that is thoughtfully designed to support your lifestyle, minimalism might be the way to go.
Form Meets Function: The Essence of Minimalist Design
Minimalist design is so much more than having as few objects as possible in a space. The foremost goal is to balance simplicity with functionality—think “less is more.” From a design perspective, this is actually a challenging task, especially in a room that serves so many daily functions.
How do you get everything you want and need in a luxury bathroom while creating a calming, open environment? Some of the most common strategies behind minimalist design include:
Open Space
One of the keys to successful minimalist design is creating open space in every dimension. This is achieved by being selective and thoughtful in the planning phase, maintaining proper spacing between design elements, and using light to your advantage, both natural and artificial.
Clean Lines
Sleek profiles minimize distractions, allowing the eye to take in the entire tableau and not become visually overwhelmed. One way to achieve this is by minimizing hardware, either by integrating milled handles that blend into the face of the cabinet, or incorporating push-to-open cabinets for a completely seamless look.
Hidden Storage Solutions
Everybody has stuff, even minimalists. The key is to create clever ways to store items so that they are accessible when you need them and hidden when you don’t. Striking the right chord of balance and proportion is essential, and smart design systems are your secret weapon.
Limited Color Palette
Minimalism is often characterized by a relatively monochromatic color palette, sometimes with the occasional accent color. Don’t be afraid to add a splash of color to the space, but do so judiciously and think of these tones as accents in the space.
Distinguished Materials
A limited color palette doesn’t necessarily mean a lack of character. By incorporating tactile modern materials, you can add texture and depth without complicating the design. This will prevent the dreaded 'washed-out' feeling that is common with monochrome spaces.
The Power of Less: The Advantages of Minimalist Bathroom Design
Simply appreciating the serenity of the minimalist aesthetic is a good enough reason to go that route, but there are other reasons to consider keeping it simple, including:
Enhanced Tranquility
The less visual stimulation we have, the calmer we feel. Imagine going through your morning or evening routine in a soothing space that allows your mind to focus on setting the stage for the day or winding down at bedtime. Relaxation and mindful living are rejuvenating—and we could all use an extra dose.
Spacious Feel
In smaller rooms like bathrooms, a minimalist approach has the benefit of creating a more open feel. The minimalist aesthetic is also inherently linked to luxe, so if you want an upscale vibe, keep it simple.
Easier Cleaning
The fewer surfaces you have, the easier it is to clean them. Clean lines mean fewer nooks and crannies for dirt and dust to collect, making functionality one of the many benefits of minimalism.
Curating Your Collection: How to Choose the Right Products
With a pared-back space with fewer design elements, selecting the right solutions is paramount. Some broad product-specific recommendations include:
Vanity Size and Style
Wall-mounted solutions are ideal for minimalist bathrooms because the open space below creates an airy feel. Utilize vanity drawers to optimize storage space and keep clutter off the countertop. Pedestals and consoles, particularly those with slim profiles, are also ideal solutions for smaller bathrooms and powder rooms.
Built-In Wall Storage
Ample storage is necessary in any bathroom, but it shouldn't dominate the space especially when the design theme is minimal. This requires a deft touch. Planning and an emphasis on priortizing the essentials for your room are critical. In general, slim wall-mounted cabinetry help to lighten the space while keeping essential items tucked away. Incorporating thoughtfully designed shelving or semi-concealed storage are smart choices to achieve the minimalist vibe.
Minimalist Bathtubs and Showers
With fewer furnishings, the forms, shapes, and lines become more important. When selecting a tub, consider how the profile fits into the overall room dynamics. This is also an opportunity to add color to a minimalist space in the form of a feature or centerpiece design. For shower enclosures, a glass panel in a wet room is a great way to provide privacy without adding heavy curtains or doors.
Timeless Fixtures and Accessories
Faucets, and other fixtures become more prominent with minimalist design, so consider the impact of these elements on the overall aesthetic. Wall-mounted towel warmers, sleek towel hooks, and other simple accessories add essential functionality and provide an opportunity for design.
Turn to Hastings for Minimalist Bathroom Design
As simple as the aesthetic is, it can be surprisingly challenging to find furnishings that integrate well into a minimalist space. Hastings has your back with a robust collection of modern vanities, storage solutions, and mirrors that can be personalized to enhance your space. As the exclusive US and Canadian distributor of VOLA, Hastings is also the only place you can access these iconic fixtures and accessories.
Our team is here to help you at any phase of the design process, whether you’re starting with a blank slate or selecting furnishings for a completed design. Get in touch today to get started.
