Cool, Warm, or in between?
By Sheetal Chailertborisuth, Designer
Architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe described Minimalism as “Less is more” but is it really? When a space is designed minimalistically, “less” often is less A minimal space is often associated with clean, sleek and clear lines, or a very “open” space in other words with elements of furniture sparsely used to create an impression.
“Minimalism” is a style that is highly influenced by Japanese Architecture, which uses basis elements such as lines and planes. Interiors use simple elegant designs and basic geometric shapes, natural colours and textures.
“Minimalism” became a 19th Century movement, a trend , and very popular in London and New York where designers worked to achieve simplicity using white elements, with a large space and minimum objects and furniture.
Today, it is still become used by young designers all over.
We see many examples in homes, hotel spaces and retail spaces. And yes, the architecture and the interiors are cool and elegant, but it never feels.
Spaces need to give a feeling of homeliness;
A warm space is normally created with textures and colours and furniture objects that are soft and comfortable. A warm space is welcoming, inviting and appealing.
Is there a balance? Can a balance be found to adopt both the cool and warm styles, is there an in between between the cool sleek? “Minimalism” and warmer, plusher feeling? Can a balance be struck between the cool and warm?
I believe the “Asian Contemporary” style is an answer.
A style developed in Asia where clean lines, sleek look are taken from the Minimalist movement and fused with warm colours, materials and high level of comfort
The result is a soft ambiance, fresh, warm, and modern.
Sheetal Chailertborisuth is a former student of Accademia Italiana Bangkok in interior and product design.
She is currently working at Fenn Designers as the Marketing and PR. Coordinator, as an Interior and Product Designer focusing on the business development side in the world of design. Fenn is a full service design practice dedicated to Master Planning Architecture and interior design.
