We have recently observed a few articles and conversations about minimalism being out and maximalism making a return. Since our business is based on Simplifying your life, we absolutely wanted to discuss this topic in depth. We have also mentioned in previous articles that we do not always refer to ourselves as minimalists and prefer the term functionalist if you must put a label on it. However, they are similar enough to compare and contrast them to the idea of maximalism.
Maximalism offers a way for people to break away from minimalism's strict rules and express their creativity and individuality in their living spaces. With its emphasis on bold colors, patterns, and textures, maximalism provides an exciting and eclectic alternative to the clean and simple lines of minimalism. Maximalism, as a design concept sounds fun. Patterns and bright colors are great. What is not great is over consumption and wasted “stuff” cluttering your home.
As you begin to hear more about maximalism being the new trend, consider that decluttering and minimalism seem to resonate with people who are looking for a more intentional and mindful way of living. They offer a way to simplify your life, reduce stress, and make more conscious choices about how you live, consume, and interact with the environment.
Simplifying is actually rooted in some powerful ideas that have been around for centuries. The concepts of living simply and in harmony with nature can be traced back to Henry David Thoreau, the famous American author, philosopher, and naturalist who lived in the mid-19th century. Thoreau believed that material possessions were a burden and that living simply was the key to happiness. He famously wrote, "Simplify, simplify, simplify," and this phrase has become a motto for many people and the inspiration for our business.
We have enjoyed touring the homes of Frank Lloyd Wright, the famous American architect. He believed that architecture should be in harmony with nature and that buildings should be designed to enhance the lives of their inhabitants. He is famous for designing homes with built-in storage, which eliminated the need for extra furniture and clutter. Wright's designs promoted the idea that the built environment should be simple and efficient, and that unnecessary clutter should be eliminated. Recently, we were on a tour of the Westcott House in Springfield, Ohio. We learned that Wright originated the idea of open concept and that his homes rarely (if ever) had attics or basements because he didn’t like the idea of accumulating “stuff.”
Many people, particularly millennials, are passionate about sustainability and reducing their carbon footprint. Living minimally, which involves reducing one's possessions and consumption can be seen as a way to reduce environmental impact.
Millennials have faced unique financial challenges, such as high levels of student debt and a challenging job market. Living minimally can be a way to save money and reduce expenses. By adopting a minimalist lifestyle, they can focus on the things that truly matter to them and avoid the pressure to keep up with consumer culture.
The digital age has made it possible to access an abundance of information and entertainment without the need for physical possessions. This has led many to question the value of accumulating material possessions when so much can be accessed digitally. We are always decluttering old VHS tapes, books, DVDs, audio cassettes and CDs. We need so much less as technology continues to progress.
Our generation is also largely concerned about their mental health and the impact of stress and anxiety on their lives. Living minimally can be a way to reduce stress and create a more peaceful and calming living environment. By simplifying your life, you can focus on the things that truly matter and reduce the mental clutter that can lead to stress and anxiety.
So, whether you're a busy mom looking to simplify your life or a single millennial looking to reduce your environmental impact, decluttering and minimalism are trends that are here to stay. By adopting a functionalist lifestyle, you can live a more sustainable, affordable, and fulfilling life. Remember Thoreau's famous words: "Simplify, simplify, simplify.”
Hello. We are Caleb and Cole. We each share a passion for organization and cleansing the home. We think of SimplifyNYC as not just a service, but a philosophy about life that we pass on to every client with whom we work. Our backgrounds are both in the performing arts. Through intense study of the arts, we gained greater perspective on how to tell a clear narrative, how best to determine focus and articulate goals. We think of your life and your home similarly. Too much clutter obscures clarity. Our goal is to better your quality of life by ridding it of negative, cluttered space and creating a clear, safe space outside the hustle and bustle of NYC. To reach us directly click here and follow us on Instagram.
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