MODERN FURNITURE

Less is most definitely more
Inspired by pure simplicity, the modern, minimal look derives its feel from clean living and the absence of clutter. More often than not some of the most effective examples are a result of considered design and top craftsmanship, although producing the simplest end result.

Throughout cultures and civilisations the needs and ethos of simple living have provided inspiration for generations of designers. The form and function of a design, be it a piece of furniture or an object, are the main criteria for its look. Everything is paired down to its basic requirements, all that remains is the designer's interpretation of what it should say.

That all sounds a bit arty, but when you look at examples it all seems to make sense. Take the German architect Mies van der Rohe. Back in the beginning of the last century he coined the phrase "less is more." If you look at his buildings or even his furniture, an example of his modern furniture is the Barcelona chair (1), first produced in 1929, although it is now constructed of modern materials it still has the simplicity of something natural with the lines of pure design.

The simple life
Modern furniture and minimal living need not be cold and stern looking, nor should its serenity be purely monastic. It needn't be so cutting edge either, that it is unusable or ugly. The essence is to find a level of simplicity that suits you. The only requirement is an honesty to the materials and a respect of space.

There are many examples where the flow of space and light create the decoration without the confusion of ornamentation. Simple living gives rise to a more relaxed and tranquil life. Zen philosophy and oriental purity and spirituality have inspired many spin-offs, from high brow architectural design to the Shaker communities, living with less and finding more.

The play of light on a simple white wall, or the clean lines of a stunning piece of furniture given enough space to truly value it, are so easy to achieve, as long as you are prepared to do away with the everyday "shmutter" or else build flush fitting, non obtrusive storage to hide it all away. You do not have to live in an architect-designed house to obtain the minimalist look, just be selective and regularly de-clutter your life.