Soft Minimal

Soft Minimal is minimalism with the cold taken out of it. The discipline stays, so clutter is still the enemy and every piece still has to justify itself, but the palette warms up and the edges round off.

Think oatmeal rather than white, bouclé rather than leather, curves rather than corners. It is the difference between a room that impresses people and a room people actually want to sit down in. Shadow and daylight are part of the scheme, which makes it work particularly well in a New Zealand home with good light and not much wall.

Our Soft Minimal range covers vases and vessels, cushions and throws, lighting, ceramics and quiet decorative objects in warm neutrals. One considered piece per surface is usually the answer.

Buying for a minimalist rather than styling your own room? See our minimalist gift ideas.

How is Soft Minimal different from minimalism?
It keeps the discipline, so clutter still goes, but warms the palette and rounds the edges. Think oatmeal instead of stark white, bouclé instead of leather, and organic shapes like the Harmie vases instead of hard geometry.

What colours suit a Soft Minimal room?
Warm neutrals: oat, cream, sand, stone and soft grey, with black used sparingly for contrast. Keep whites warm rather than blue-toned, and let texture in linen, ceramic and timber do the work colour would.

How many objects should go on a shelf?
Fewer than you think. One considered piece per surface is often enough, or a pair with a clear gap between them. If a shelf feels empty, add height with a vase and a stem rather than more objects.

Is there a book about Soft Minimal design?
Yes. Soft Minimal by Norm Architects, published by Gestalten, sets out the thinking behind the look through real interiors. It also works as a coffee table book, which suits the style well.