Beyond Minimalism
In the fast-paced world of today, where everyone is overburdened with an overload of information, minimalism, a design philosophy that champions simplicity, has emerged as a breath of fresh air. It advocates for the elimination of excess, focusing on the essential elements and creating space for intentional living. Influential figures like Marie Kondo have popularised the idea of decluttering and finding joy in simplicity, leading to a mass movement in support of minimalism. From architecture and interior design to personal style and lifestyle choices, minimalism has permeated various aspects of our lives. By embracing minimalism, individuals seek to declutter their physical spaces, reduce distractions, and find a sense of calm amidst the chaos. In this blog, we delve into the essence of minimalism, exploring its impact on design and lifestyle, and how Rooh for Spaces offers a unique perspective that goes against the grain, inspired by pioneers such as Gaudi and Frank Gehry, who shaped the modern landscape with their innovative and daring creations.
The Benign Calm Amidst the Chaos: The Era of Mindless (small) Minimalism?
Imagine walking down a bustling street in England. As you pass by a row of phone booths, your attention is immediately drawn to one on the left. Its vibrant red colour, ornate mouldings around the door, and intricate ornamentation make it stand out from the rest. It exudes character and tells a story of a bygone era. On the right, however, stands a minimalist phone box. Its clean lines and lack of detail give it a sleek and modern appearance, but it fails to capture your imagination in the same way. This juxtaposition highlights the significance of detail in design. The phone booth on the left, with its attention to detail, not only possesses aesthetic appeal but also imparts a sense of identity and charm. It becomes a point of interest, sparking conversations and lending the city a distinct character. On the other hand, the minimal design of the phone booth on the right, while sleek and functional, lacks the same distinctiveness. It blends into the background, becoming just another element in a sea of sameness.
In the realm of architecture, another striking example of the power of detail can be seen in the stark contrast between the Gothic cathedral and the modern skyscraper. While Gothic architecture is meant to be so on your face with the ideology of “I am so much you’ll either hate it or you’ll love it but you’ll surely look twice” The Gothic cathedral, with its intricate stone carvings, towering spires, and stained glass windows, is a testament to the awe-inspiring craftsmanship and devotion of the artisans who built it. Every inch of the cathedral is adorned with intricate details, from the meticulously sculpted gargoyles to the delicate tracery on the windows. It stands as a symbol of the time and effort invested in creating a structure that not only serves a practical purpose but also inspires a sense of wonder and reverence. On the other hand, the modern skyscraper, with its sleek glass façade and minimalist design, lacks the same level of detail and ornamentation. While skyscrapers are marvels of engineering and technological advancements, they prioritise efficiency and functionality.
These examples reflect a larger trend in design and architecture. Minimalism has become prevalent, perhaps because it provides a clean and unobtrusive aesthetic. The allure of minimalism lies in its ability to create a sense of calmness and order, both externally and internally. However, there is a cautionary tale to be told. As the Swedish furniture giant Ikea revolutionised home furnishings, it inadvertently sparked a phenomenon known as the "Ikeaisation" of our homes. With standardised designs and mass-produced furniture, the focus on minimalism began to overshadow the importance of detail and individuality. When every design choice, be it architectural or corporate, becomes unconsciously minimalistic, it can lead to a lack of detail and a sense of homogeneity.
When everything looks the same, devoid of detail and discernible characteristics, it raises the question: What does that say about us as a society?
The Importance of Thoughtful Detailing
A room should never allow the eye to settle in one place. It should smile at you and create fantasy." - Juan Montoya
At Rooh for Spaces, we celebrate the beauty of detail. We believe that it is the details that breathe life into a space, infusing it with personality and meaning. We understand that each element, whether it's a carefully chosen colour palette, a thoughtfully placed accent piece, or an intricate pattern, contributes to the distinct character and quality of a space. Our collection of handcrafted furniture and home decor items embraces the art of mindful minimalism while incorporating elements of detail that elevate the overall aesthetic. We believe that your intimate spaces deserve to be minimal so that the lack of clutter outside leads to peace of mind for you and your loved ones. However, you can add a mindful aesthetic to the rest of your homes by carefully selecting pieces with intricate patterns, unique textures, and thoughtful ornamentation, creating an environment where every design choice becomes a conscious expression of style and identity. Our commitment to detail extends beyond aesthetics – it is a celebration of the human touch, the dedication of artisans, and the preservation of traditional craftsmanship.
In a world where everything seems to look the same, devoid of detail and individuality, Rooh for Spaces challenges the norm. We invite you to explore our collection, where each piece has been thoughtfully crafted to celebrate the beauty of detail and add a touch of uniqueness to your spaces. Let us rediscover the power of detail, infusing soulfulness and character into every design choice, and reclaim our identity in a sea of sameness.
An example of our philosophy is the elegant Jaisalmer Handcarved Solid Wood Trunk Box. This versatile piece can be transformed into a captivating coffee table, providing a serene space for enjoying a cuppa.
Paired with our Scene in a Jungle Handpainted Antique Wooden Frame Mirror, it effortlessly becomes an elegant end-of-bed bench, adding style and functionality while holding all your bedding in a soulful manner.
By unlocking the versatility of wooden trunks, we demonstrate that minimalism can coexist with detail, creating spaces that are both calm and captivating. Together, let's celebrate the beauty of detail and create spaces that truly reflect who we are!
Spice up your entrance with a stylish console
Breathe life into the setting with vases & greens
Brighten things up with a vintage table lamp
Use accessories like photo frames to add depth
Place an ottoman below for a sleek seating place