Are You a Minimalist or a Maximalist? What about a Middle-ist?

Which is more practical: a minimalist or a maximalist lifestyle? From an interior design standpoint, do you prefer clean, simple designs or cozy, accessorized rooms? Or do you want a combination of both?

THE MINIMALIST LIFESTYLE

Minimalists have only what is necessary. Just enough kitchen utensils to do the job. A simple wardrobe to accommodate one week’s worth of wear. All organized neatly and stored out of sight. A place for everything and everything in its place. Fewer items equals less time managing the household inventory.

For decor, the minimalist wants just enough items to fill a space without cluttering it. One picture. Maybe two. Possibly an accent rug. Perhaps no rug at all. Colors are often natural and monochromatic.

Simply put (pun intended)…

“(Minimalism) is marked by clarity, purpose, and intentionality. At its core, minimalism is the intentional promotion of the things we most value and the removal of everything that distracts us from it. It is a life that forces intentionality.” – Joshua Becker from becomingminimalist.com

THE MAXIMALIST LIFESTYLE

Maximalists are, well, you guessed it – the opposite. But that’s not necessarily a negative connotation. This lifestyle is not messy, cluttered, or visually overpowering. Comfort is key for the maximalist. Plates for everyday dining plus another set for entertaining. A full winter wardrobe with a few extra items in case someone comes to play in the snow and forgets their gloves. Plus, multiple blankets for decor and fort building.

While minimalists keep everything stowed away (sometimes too far away), maximalists prefer their items to be kept in convenient, easy-to-access locations. A variety of colors and patterns create dynamic spaces. Walls and shelves display their all-time favorite pieces that can be rotated out with other trendy accessories.

WHAT ABOUT A MIDDLE-ISTS LIFESTYLE?

Can we find a middle ground? YES! While the latest trends advocate the minimalist lifestyle, it can be difficult. Being a minimalist can be challenging when you’re dealing with kids, pets, or just day-to-day living. (Hello budget-saving hand-me-down clothes in the attic.) Plus, you may enjoy displaying sentimental items in convenient places.

On the other hand, even though you like to have a little surplus on hand, you may also crave a clean, organized space for comfort and practicality. Kids picking up old toys before they get out new ones provides more space to play (and less nagging from grown-ups). Adults may also find fulfillment from a few quick minutes of tidying every day throughout the week instead of an entire afternoon of sorting and storing.

HOW TO MEET IN THE MIDDLE

Want to find the sweet spot between the minimalist and maximalist lifestyles? Start here:

~ Purge. Perform an honest assessment of everything you own to identify the items you actually use or enjoy on a regular basis. Only like three of the five candlestick holders on the shelf? Pull the other two. Can you live with just one bread pan instead of two? Keep your favorite. Tired of that artwork in the half-bath? Lose it. Put the surplus items in a box and store that box in the garage or closet. Then, set a reminder for one month from now. If you haven’t pulled anything out of the box, sell or donate the items.

~ Add storage. If you still have things that you want to keep, but you don’t want them on display for all to see, store those items away in plain sight. Storage ottomans pull triple duty as footrests, coffee tables, and blanket/toy storage bins. Sturdy woven baskets at the right height can give you a place to store winter mittens and hats while doubling as a side table. Vases can hold dog treats, serve as bookends, or double as a cake stand base while adding texture to the design of your room.

~ Keep/add what delights you. Most importantly, keep and add items that are important to YOU and your lifestyle. If you’ve been eyeing a vintage teapot that doesn’t fit with any of your current design inspirations – get it! You’ll enjoy using it and you’ll remember and share the story behind it no matter how out-of-trend it may appear. Your enjoyment is what matters most.

Whether you identify as a minimalist, maximalist, or middle-ist, the end result should always be a home that is reflective of you!