Embracing a minimalist lifestyle can be a great way to declutter your life and reduce your carbon footprint. However, according to the LA Times, the average American household has over 300,000 items in it. This is both alarming and overwhelming. Where do you even begin to tidy up?
If you’re thinking about making the switch to a minimalist home, you should consider a few key upgrades. From adding more storage to investing in multifunctional furniture, read on for some ideas.
Efficient Storage Solutions
One of the hallmarks of a minimalist home is that everything has its place. To achieve this, you’ll need to invest in additional storage. It doesn’t have to be expensive; a trip to your local dollar store will often do the trick. Just be sure to choose durable and well-made items, so they can stand up to everyday use. Here are some tips:
- Use mason jars or other glass containers to store food. This will help you see exactly what you have on hand, which is helpful when meal planning. Plus, it looks much nicer than a cluttered pantry full of open boxes and bags.
- Install shelves or hooks in your mudroom or entryway. This will help you keep things organized and off the floor.
- Add dividers to your shelves. This will help you maximize space and keep things tidy.
- Use baskets or bins to store items like blankets, books, and toys. Not only will this help you stay organized, but it will also make it easy to find things when you need them.
- Hang things up. Choose to hang items like coats, bags, and towels whenever possible instead of storing them in a closet or drawer. This will help you save space and keep things within easy reach.
Modern Roman Blinds
Another way to upgrade your home is to invest in custom-made Roman blinds. Not only are they a stylish addition to any room, but they’re also extremely versatile. Roman blinds can block out light, create privacy, or add a style touch to your space.
When choosing the ones to use, it’s essential to pick a style that fits your overall aesthetic. If you’re going for a minimalist look, choose simple and understated blinds. Alternatively, if you want to add a pop of color or pattern to your room, choose ones in bold fabric.
In terms of functionality, Roman blinds are a great way to control the amount of light that enters your home. They can help keep your home cool and reduce energy costs if you live in a sunny area. And if you have young children or pets, they can also be used to create a safe and private space. Therefore, they are a great addition to any home, whether you’re aiming for a minimalist aesthetic or not.
Multifunctional Furniture
Investing in multifunctional furniture is another excellent way to do your minimalist homework for you. Think about pieces that can serve multiple purposes, such as a coffee table that can also be a storage ottoman or a daybed that can serve as a guest room when needed. Not only will multifunctional furniture save you space, but it will also save you money in the long run.
Remember that it’s crucial to pick stylish and functional pieces. Therefore, the furniture should be:
- Well-made and will stand up to everyday use: It should be sturdy enough to hold whatever you need it to, whether it’s books, blankets, or even people.
- Versatile and can be used for multiple purposes: It should be able to serve more than one function so that you can get the most use out of it.
- Fits your overall aesthetic: It should be in line with the other pieces in your home so that it doesn’t stick out like a sore thumb.
- Functional and will meet your needs: It should be able to do everything you need, whether providing extra storage or being used as a guest bed.
- Affordable and within your budget: It shouldn’t break the bank, but it should also be a quality piece that will last for years to come.
Low-VOC Paints and Stains
Another way to make your home more sustainable is to upgrade your paints and stains to low-VOC options. VOCs (volatile organic compounds) are emissions from certain chemicals that can have short- and long-term health effects, so limiting your exposure as much as possible is essential.
Fortunately, many paint companies now offer low- or no-VOC options that are just as effective as their traditional counterparts. When looking for one, though, it’s important to read the labels carefully. Some paints advertise themselves as “low-VOC,” but they still contain harmful chemicals.
If you’re looking for a minimalist aesthetic, you may want to consider using white or light-colored paint. Not only will this brighten up your home, but it will also reflect the natural light and create an airy feeling. Dark colors can often make a space feel smaller and more cramped. It’s also important to consider the finish. Glossy finishes reflect more light than matte finishes, so they’re a good option if you’re looking for a bright and airy feel. However, if you prefer a more subdued look, matte finishes are a better option.
Ultimately, it’s up to you what type of paint you choose to use in your home. Just make sure that it is both low-VOC and high-quality so that you and your family can breathe easily.
Making the switch to a minimalist lifestyle can help you declutter your life and reduce your carbon footprint—but it’s not without its challenges. With this guide to upgrades for a minimalist home, however, you’ll be well on your way to creating the perfect space for you and your family.
