Minimalists Always Keep These 5 Items in Their Homes

Minimalism isn't only about getting rid of items. Learn what items minimalist designers always keep.

Minimalism is often associated with decluttering and donating or tossing unused items. While minimalist design encourages less clutter, it isn't only about getting rid of items. Minimalism embraces intentionally keeping items you value and that serve a purpose.

"Minimal design is clean and sophisticated but it is also practical," says Sarah Tract, interior designer and founder of Sarah Tract Interiors. "Focus on the items that will last a lifetime, both aesthetically and functionally."

The items minimalists keep in their homes are deliberate and practical, but still stylish and timeless . Keep reading to learn the five things minimalist designers always keep in their homes.

• Steph Schlegelmilch is the founder and creative director of Studio Seva.
• Sarah Tract is an interior designer and founder of Sarah Tract Interiors.

1. Linen Curtains

Steph Schlegelmilch, founder and creative director of Studio Seva, says she always incorporates sheer linen draperies into her designs. "They always provide our designs with so much warmth and finish off our spaces beautifully," Schlegelmilch says.

Linen is known for being light and durable, lasting years if well taken care of. Plus, it softens as it ages, so linen drapes will become warmer and softer with time. Use floor-length linen drapes in the living room and bedrooms to add privacy without blocking warm light. Consider using linen café curtains in the kitchen to let in even more natural light.

2. White Bedding

Minimalist designs often feature neutral color palettes because of their timelessness and versatility. This same rule applies to bedding. "I would never get rid of white bedding," Tract says. "It’s clean, crisp, and sophisticated."

Use white bedding as a blank canvas to showcase a patterned blanket or textured pillow, or feature an entire set of white bedding to make your space feel serene. If you opt to add color or pattern with throw pillows , Schlegelmilch says to stick to one or two pillows for a clean and refined look. Too many pillows can appear cluttered.

3. Ceramics

Schlegelmilch says she never gets rid of her favorite ceramic pieces when decluttering. She likes to source pottery that is meaningful and tells a story so that it can serve as a stand-alone art piece. "Pottery is so versatile in a home and will always create interest with or without fresh-cut flowers ," Schlegelmilch says.

Display your favorite ceramic vases and bowls on shelves in your home or on your dining table for a simple centerpiece. Fill with fresh or dried flowers , or choose to leave empty for a clean, polished look.

4. Heirlooms

According to Schlegelmilch, even if you're decluttering to achieve a minimalist look, you should hold onto vintage heirlooms and glassware. This might include home items that have been passed down through generations or a set of champagne glasses you thrifted. Hanging onto antique pieces will create a collected and intentional look in your home that will not fade with passing trends. "Not only do these pieces have meaning, but mixing old and new feels the most authentic to us," Schlegelmilch says.

Related: How to Find the Best Vintage Home Decor, According to a Pro

5. Statement Light Fixtures

Think twice before switching out your light fixture to match your minimal aesthetic. Because most elements in minimalist design are clean and simple, Tract says she always incorporates a statement light fixture into her designs to ground the space. Consider hanging a group of pendant lights in your dining room or kitchen or installing decorative sconces in your bathroom .

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