Office Furniture Inspiration - Minimalist Office Ideas

Minimalist Definition

What are your first thoughts about minimalism?
Having only a few items? Wearing only black t-shirts?
Or is it more along the lines of being intentional about what you purchase?
According to the well-known 'The Minimalists,' Minimalism is:

"a tool to rid yourself of life's excess in favor of focusing on what's important - so you can find happiness, fulfillment, and freedom."

For those that practice minimalism in their lives, they want to simplify their way of living, truly enjoy what they have and eliminate the stress that comes with owning and acquiring more and more. This may seem like a fleeting trend but actually it has been around for a while and in different forms, as principles vary depending on the individual.

Basic Minimalist Design Principles

Because of this desire to be intentional about possessions owned and products bought, it should be easy to suggest that it has a significant influence on design decisions.

A few principles employed in minimalist design are:

1. The use of simple furniture


2. Being intentional about space and negative space


3. Utilizing high-quality, long-lasting items


4. Sticking to simplified color palettes


5. Only bring in items that you love

There may be many more that can be put into action when trying to design a minimalist space but for the sake of inspiration, the minimalist aesthetic shown in offices and home offices below will follow these basic principles.

THE INSPIRATION

1. Simple Setup

This minimalist desk is no frills and caters to the principles of open space and simple colors. It also follows quality as a standard because of its height adjustability and unique leg design. The chair also adds in simplicity with two-tone pattern, the use of metal and limit on unnecessary features.

2. The Minimal Workstation

Multiple desk setups can often times add bulk and thickness to a space. With more traditional spaces and executive office setups this is part of the design aesthetic. For minimalist offices that need to fit multiple workstations, having open areas, only the most important features, and colors that reflect the light while brightening the room, are a must.

3. Dark and Rich

Dark and moody is popular now in interior design and it centers on items in warm, rich wood tones as well as darker paint and wallpaper colors. For a minimalist home office, the wood brings in that warmth and when paired with the black keeps everything to a simple, yet moody feel. This is especially important when trying to make a space feel cozy.

Image: Thesefourwallsblog

4. Space Maximizing

While this setup is in a hotel it adds in another element that can be useful for minimalist design: space saving furniture. Having the desktop attach from the wall with the possibility of doubling as a table top is a great standard for multiuse space. Also, eliminating the need for legs and utilizing wood tones leaves the room with an uncluttered feel.

Image: Interiordesign.net

5. Don't Forget Decor

Just because it's minimal doesn't mean it has to be plain. This space uses wood, rugs and minimalist office decor to dress up the area. Simple light fixtures, thin lines and a sheer curtain help the space to remain open and bright, yet styled.

6. Open and Airy

Office spaces don't just have to be a desk and a chair. Nowadays, coworking and other shared spaces are extremely popular. To make these spaces appear modern, stylish (and dare I say, hip?) minimalist furniture can be employed to maintain simplicity and bring in color. Furthermore, multiple elements in this office can be mixed and matched which is great for versatility.

Conclusion - Creating your own space

When trying to build your own minimalist office space, take inspiration from the elements you like and leave what doesn't work. Minimalist offices aren't plain or bare minimum, but rather it's important to choose items:

• That bring you the most happiness
• Are comfortable
• Have only the design features necessary to your work style

It's not about deprivation, but quality, intentionality and aesthetics.

Interested in getting a space saving desk but one that benefits your health? Read our article on Small Standing Desks for Limited Office Space.