Introduction
Saying that minimalist architecture is a trend is completely wrong, it is much more than that – it is a concept that implies that more often less is more. The minimalist style has a slogan “less is more” and it is in contrast to the richness of traditional styles, emphasizing on form, light, space and materials. It is a movement that has gained popularity across the world and has applied to residential and commercial buildings. In this blog, we will talk about what minimalist architecture is, where it came from, some of the main ideas behind it, and some famous buildings that are considered to be minimalist, as well as some facts that show the importance of minimalist architecture in the modern world.
Origins of Minimalist Architecture
Simplified architectural style was developed in the twentieth century, under the impact of cultural, art and philosophical changes. Its foundations can be traced back to:
Bauhaus and De Stijl Movements: These two movements emerged in Europe in the 1920s and supported functionalism and the absence of unnecessary decoration, thus preparing the base of modern minimalism.
Influence of Zen Philosophy: Of course, the concept of minimalist architecture is closely connected to the techniques of the Japanese style, which is characterized by simplicity and quietude.
Architects like Ludwig Mies van der Rohe: A German-American architect who is credited with the aphorism “less is more” became one of the leaders of the movement, constructing buildings that were minimalist, transparent and free of unnecessary ornamentation while making the best use of space.
Ludwig Mies van der Rohe_@ https://en.wikipedia.org
These influences came together to form an architectural perspective that aims at eliminating redundancy and embracing simplicity.
Core Principles of Minimalist Architecture
The principles of the minimalist architecture are based on simplicity, functionality and the emotional neutrality of the space. Here are some of the core tenets:
Simplicity in Form and Function: Minimalism also focuses on straight lines, simple geometric shapes and simple patterns. The architectural design is quite rational and systematic, with little or no extra space or ornamentation.
Open Spaces: The spaces in minimalist structures are sometimes flexible to allow for creation of barriers between areas, thus creating an impression of larger spaces. This openness not only looks warm but also lets natural lights to flow around the building naturally.
Focus on Materials: This is usually the defining feature of minimalist structures, the choice of the material for construction. Some of the most common materials are concrete, glass and steel, due to their strength, surface feel and look. Each material is usually used in its most basic and natural state without any addition of ornamentation.
Natural Light as a Design Element: Unlike other architectural designs that use artificial lighting, minimalist architecture uses big windows and roof lights to admit natural light.
Neutral Color Palettes: Plain and monochromatic colors are common in minimalist designs, and patterns and textures take precedence over bright colors.
Function-Driven Design: In a minimalist structure, all aspects of the design have a practical function and are functional in terms of structural, spatial or visual.
A Combination of Principles of Minimalism_@ https://www.saoarchitects.com
They complement each other to produce clean, balanced, and purposeful environments.
Iconic Examples of Minimalist Architecture
Here are some striking examples of minimalist architecture that embody the movement’s principles and provide inspiration for architects and homeowners alike:
Farnsworth House by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe
Location: Plano, Illinois, USA
Built: 1951
Features: Farnsworth House is a home constructed from glass and is built on steel legs and is located close to Fox River. It is a minimalist structure with no partitions, and the main construction material used is glass with steel and travertine. This house is a famous example of the organic approach to the landscape and is also a perfect example of the minimalism style of architecture.
Farnsworth House by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe_@ https://en.wikipedia.org 
Interior of Farnsworth House by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe_@ https://en.wikipedia.org
The Glass House by Philip Johnson
Location: New Canaan, Connecticut, USA
Built: 1949
Features: This house has no barrier between the interior and exterior; it only has walls of glass. It consists of one large room surrounded by the glass: this principle is a perfect example of minimalism, as nothing interferes with the view of nature outside. The house is very simple, and the minimalist architecture is evident from the fact that almost everything that can be removed from the house has been removed.
The Glass House by Philip Johnson_@ https://archeyes.com 
Interior of The Glass House by Philip Johnson_@ https://archeyes.com
Azuma House by Tadao Ando
Location: Osaka, Japan
Built: 1976
Features: This is a concrete house design which has been designed with an element of wabi-sabi, a Japanese concept which appreciates simplicity and flaws. The house’s features include plain and bare concrete walls and a light and air source in the form of a central courtyard in the small living space.
Azuma House by Tadao Ando_@ https://sgustokdesign.com 
Interior of Azuma House by Tadao Ando_@ https://sgustokdesign.com
Villa Savoye by Le Corbusier
Location: Poissy, France
Built: 1931
Features: Villa Savoye also represents the best example of how the principles of minimalism can be applied to create a beautiful and functional home. It has geometric shape, flat roof, and free internal planning with large windows that let in a lot of light; all of these aspects are framed in concrete – this is the most important feature of Villa Savoye, based on the principles of the new minimalist philosophy.
Villa Savoye by Le Corbusier_@ https://archeyes.com 
Interior of Villa Savoye by Le Corbusier_@ https://archeyes.com
Church of the Light by Tadao Ando
Location: Ibaraki, Osaka, Japan
Built: 1989
Features: In this postmodern minimalistic church Ando employed only concrete and glass to generate a potent impact. The window provided is a cross-shaped window, and its function is to allow light into the room, and when it casts a cross-shaped shadow in the room, it also complies with the light and shadow design concept of minimalism.
Church of the Light by Tadao Ando_@ https://www.interactiongreen.com 
Interior of Church of the Light by Tadao Ando_@ https://en.wikipedia.org
Interesting Facts About Minimalist Architecture
Japanese Influence: Many minimalist architects are inspired by Japanese aesthetics and Zen philosophy, especially principles like “Ma” (negative space) and “Shibui” (understated beauty).
Sustainability: Some of the characteristics of minimalist architecture are that such structures are not very large and therefore consume less energy. The philosophy adopted involves the use of less materials, better utilization of energy and natural means of heating and cooling the building.
Aesthetically Appealing to Millennials: Minimalism is received best by Gen Y, more so millennials, who prefer simple and practical things over materialism.
Visual Tricks for Space: Simplicity is characteristic for minimalism and to make the interiors look bigger mirrors, neutral colors and open space design are used, which is popular in densely populated megacities.
Psychological Impact: Research has shown that simple designs help to alleviate pressure and enhance attention because they contain no decoration that often interferes with work.
Moodboard about Minimalist Architecture_@ https://in.pinterest.com
The Popularity and Future of Minimalist Architecture
Minimalism has slowly but surely been establishing itself as a trend around the globe, especially in large cities where space is a luxury and people seek to create calm and spacious living conditions. Here are some reasons behind the enduring appeal of minimalist architecture:
Urbanization: In the overcrowded cities, minimalism contributes to the development of more efficient, spacious and calm living spaces. The main advantage of minimalist interiors is that even if you live in a small apartment, it will seem spacious and quiet.
Sustainability: Since the public has become more environmentally sensitive, the use of minimal material and energy efficient designs is preferred by those who want to make a positive change.
Digital Influence: The desire for clean and well-designed interfaces, and the organization of information on the Web has led to a greater appreciation for minimalism in design, not just in architecture.
It can be seen that the concept of minimalism is still developing with improvements in both material and technology so that architects can find out the best ways to make space more efficient, sustainable, and relevant with modern society’s living standard.
Tips for Embracing Minimalism in Your Own Space
For those inspired by minimalist architecture and interested in adopting its principles in their homes, here are a few tips:
Declutter Regularly: Get rid of any object that does not have a use or adds no form of beauty.
Invest in Quality over Quantity: Minimalism prefers to have a few valuable things rather than having many cheap things.
Opt for Neutral Colors: Aim at using a low contrasting color scheme to avoid having a very busy looking room.
Prioritize Natural Light: Make sure that there is a large amount of windows or reflective surfaces to make the most out of natural light in your environment.
Use Simple, Functional Furniture: Choose pieces of furniture that serve more than one function and that have simple and straight designs.
Conclusion
There is nothing as simple as the ‘less is more’ philosophy of minimalist architecture that compels us to strip away anything that is not necessary. Starting from the absolute masters such as Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, Tadao Ando and moving on to the contemporary examples seen all over the world this style provides a timeless way of designing space that is clear, calm and strikingly beautiful. This is why, as minimalism expands its influence on the architecture of the future, it is necessary to realize that nothing can be overestimated as the simplicity of the form.
Comments