Issuu

The Essence of Space: Minimalism in Contemporary Architecture and Interior Design

Ar. Ayushi P. Gandhi1 , Prof. Meghna Tushar Sutaria 2

1.M. Arch student, SAL, School of Architecture, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India

Teaching Assistant, Anant National University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India

2 Corresponding author, Associate Professor, Research Scholar, Gujarat Technological University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India ***

Abstract - Minimalism in contemporary design reflects a broader cultural shift toward simplicity, intentionality, and environmental consciousness. Rooted in Zen philosophy which emphasizes impermanence, mindfulness, and spatial awareness and influenced by Western modernist ideologies such as the Bauhaus movement, minimalism values clarity, honesty of materials, and spatialefficiencyinbothinteriorand architectural design. This study examines the philosophical foundations, practical implementations, and the emotional and environmental impacts of minimalism. It explores how minimalist design practices align with the current need for sustainable living, psychological well-being, and functional refinement in built environments. Employing a qualitativedominant, mixed-methods approach, the research incorporates a comprehensive literature review, in-depth interviews with design practitioners, a structuredsurveyof25 professionals, and case study analyses of minimalist works by architects. The findings reveal that minimalistspacesenhance mental clarity, emotional calm,andfunctionalsimplicitywhile encouraging sustainable practices through intentional material use and reduction. Designers consistently reported that minimalist environments support intentional living and help counter overstimulated modern lifestyles. Case studies further illustrate how minimalism functions as both a design strategy and a lifestyle philosophy. In conclusion, minimalism emerges as a holistic, adaptable, and resilient approach that responds to the psychological, ecological, and social demands of contemporary life. More than a fleeting trend, it promotes human-centered environments that are calming, purposeful, and future-oriented, reaffirming its continuedrelevanceinthe global design landscape.

Key Words: Minimalism, Interior Design, Contemporary Architecture, Sustainability, Design Psychology, Spatial Clarity

1. INTRODUCTION

Minimalism has become an influential movement in contemporarydesign,extendingbeyondvisualaestheticsto address the psychological, environmental, and functional needs of the modern world. As global urbanization accelerates and digital distractions multiply, individuals increasinglyseekenvironmentsthatoffercalm,clarity,and authenticity.Inresponse,minimalistdesignhasemergedas

acounterbalance adeliberatereductionofvisualnoiseand material excess to create spaces that emphasize purpose, peace,andwell-being.

Rooted in Zen Buddhism and refined through Western modernist movements such as Bauhaus, minimalism emphasizes“lessbutbetter.”Itadvocatesfortheintentional elimination of non-essential elements, enabling design to focusonwhattrulymatters:function,proportion,light,and material honesty. This research investigates how minimalism has evolved into a culturally adaptive and emotionally resonant design approach, particularly in interiorandarchitecturalcontexts.Thestudyexploreshow minimaliststrategiesareappliedincontemporarypractice to achieve sustainable, psychologically supportive, and spatiallyefficientenvironments.

1.1 HYPOTHESIS

Minimalist interior design positively contributes to psychological well-being, promotes sustainability, and enhancesspatialusabilityincontemporaryresidentialand architecturalsettings

1.2 Objectives

• To examine the philosophical and historical foundationsofminimalism

• Toidentifykeydesignprinciplesandtheirpractical application

• Toevaluatetheimpactofminimalismonwell-being andsustainability

• To compare minimalist design with related movements such as Modernism, and Zen architecture

2. THEORETICAL BACKGROUND

2.1 Zen Origins and Eastern Influence

Minimalism’s spiritual and philosophical origins lie in Zen Buddhism. Concepts like ‘ ma ’ (negative space), ‘wabi-sabi’ (acceptance of imperfection), and ‘shibui’ (understated

International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395-0056

Volume: 12 Issue: 04 | Apr 2025 www.irjet.net p-ISSN: 2395-0072

beauty) all influence Japanese architectural aesthetics. Andrew Juniper describes wabi-sabi as a “reverence for simplicityandtransience”thatencouragesdesignerstofind beautyinthemodestandimpermanent(Juniper,WabiSabi: TheJapaneseartofimpermanence,2003)

ThesevaluesareseenintraditionalJapaneseinteriors clean lines, raw materials like wood and paper, and spaces that evokequietude.Zenminimalismprioritizesemptinessnotas void, but as potential a space for contemplation and balance. (Chayka,2016,84)

2.2 Western Modernism and the Bauhaus Ethos

MinimalismintheWestemergedfrommodernistmovements like Bauhaus in the early 20th century. The Bauhaus philosophyunifiedart,design,andindustrialproductionand rejectedornamentationinfavoroffunction.Architectssuch asMiesvanderRoheintroducedthenow-iconicconceptof “less is more,” which still underpins minimalist thinking today (Goad,2005)

LeCorbusier,anotherkeyfigureinmodernistminimalism, emphasized proportion, simplicity, and light. These ideas helpedcreateadesignmovementthatwasnotjustfunctional, butpsychologicallyandmateriallyefficient.

ContemporaryarchitectslikeJohnPawsonandTadaoAndo have refined minimalism into a meditative spatial experience. Pawson’s architecture is marked by precise geometry and silence his work seeks to “do more with less,” creating impact through restraint (Pawson, 2004) Tadao Ando’s concrete structures embrace stillness and natural light, drawing from both Zen and modernist traditions. As he notes, “architecture is the interplay betweenlightandshadow”(Ando,2010)

2.3 Indian Ethos on Minimalism

The Sanskrit phrase “ ”, meaning “excess should be avoided in all aspects,” encapsulates the Vedic Indian ethos of moderation, simplicity, and balance core ideasthataligncloselywiththeprinciplesofminimalism.In Indianphilosophy,thisisfurtherechoedin Jainism,which promotesthedoctrineof “Aparigraha”,ornon-attachment tomaterialpossessions.Jainteachingsencourageindividuals toleadamodestlife,avoidover-consumption,andcultivate detachment from wealth and ownership. This philosophy supportsmindfullivingandalignswithcontemporaryideas of sustainability by advocating resource preservation and wastereduction.

In the context of pre-independence India, Mahatma Gandhi became a global symbol of simplicity and selfreliance. His lifestyle, and especially the design of the Sabarmati Ashram, reflected a deep commitment to minimalism.Gandhiconsciouslyrejectedmaterialexcessand promotedthevaluesof simple living and high thinking.His

minimalist approach influenced not just political and spiritualmovements,butalsohowdesign,consumption, andsustainabilitywereperceivedinIndia.Inmoderntimes, minimalism in India extendsbeyondphysicalpossessions toembraceconsciousconsumption,financialmindfulness, and prioritizing experiences and purpose over accumulation reflecting both traditional wisdom and contemporaryrelevance.

3. METHODOLOGY

3.1 Research

Design

This study utilized a qualitative-dominant mixed-methods approach,including:

 Literature Review: An extensive review of scholarly literature on Zen design, modernism, Bauhaus,andminimalisttheory.

 Case Studies: AnalysisofnotableprojectsK2house andTheGrandAlabasterPunjab

 Survey: Twostructured16-questionand13survey distributedto25architectsandinteriordesigners whospecializeinminimalism.

 Comparative Analysis: Athematiccomparisonof minimalism with movements such as brutalism, modernism, Zen architecture and Scandinavian design.

4. SURVEY FINDINGS

4.1 Zen Origins and Eastern Influence

Respondents indicated that clarity, emotional calm, and sustainabilitywereprimarydesigngoals.Theuseofneutral color palettes and natural materials such as untreated wood, concrete, and glass was cited as central to their minimalistapproach.

4.2 Application Strategies

Common strategies included open floor plans, concealed storage,andthestrategicuseofnaturallight.Manydesigners incorporatedbiophilicdesignelements,suchasindoorplants, and emphasized ambient lighting to soften the visual austerityofminimalism.

4.3 Emotional and Spatial Outcomes

Most practitioners reported that minimalist environments promote user focus and reduce cognitive fatigue. Tactile materialsandorganicelementswerekeyinpreventingthe coldnessoftenassociatedwithoverlystarkinteriors.

International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395-0056

Volume: 12 Issue: 04 | Apr 2025 www.irjet.net p-ISSN: 2395-0072

4.4 Common Challenges

Designers acknowledged that maintaining warmth and comfort without sacrificing minimalist integrity was a consistent challenge. There were also concerns about minimalism being misinterpreted as a trend rather than a designphilosophy.

5. COMPARATIVE PERSPECTIVES

5.1 Minimalism vs. Brutalism

Althoughbothstylesavoidornamentation,brutalismoften appearsheavyandimposingduetoitsuseofrawconcrete and aggressive forms. Incontrast, minimalism emphasizes lightness,openness,andserenity.

Aspect Minimalism Brutalism

Philosophy Focus on reducing elementstoachieve clarity and tranquility.

Aesthetic Subtle,delicate,and serene spatial compositions.

Material Smooth concrete, lightwoods,andsoft colorpalettes.

Emphasizes raw, exposedmaterials and bold, imposingforms.

Heavy, massive, and roughtexturedforms.

Rough,unfinished concrete (béton brut)andsteel.

Example John Pawson’s minimalisthome. Le Corbusier’s Unitéd’Habitation

Table 1 Comparison of principles of two different design ideologies-1

5.2 Minimalism vs. Modernism

Modernism embraces technology and innovation, often resultinginbold,expressiveforms.Incontrast,minimalism seeks restraint. As Goad suggests, modernism and minimalism intersect, but the latter softens modernism’s rationalismwithemotionalandspiritualdepth(Goad,2005)

Aspect Minimalism Modernism

Philosophy "Less is more" –focusesonextreme simplicity and reduction.

Aesthetic Pure forms, monochromatic tones, and elimination of excess.

"Form follows function" –emphasizes function-driven design with clean aesthetics.

Simplicity with functional expression, often using industrial materials.

Example Tadao Ando’s ChurchoftheLight MiesvanderRohe’s FarnsworthHouse

Table 2 Comparison of principles of two different design ideologies-2

5.3 Minimalism vs. Japanese Zen Architecture

Bothvaluesimplicityandthenaturalworld,butZendesign addsaspirituallayerrootedinimpermanenceandharmony with nature elements thatmay beaesthetically mirrored but not philosophically present in all Western minimalist designs.

Aspect Minimalism Japanese Zen Architects

Philosophy Reduction of elements for simplicity and purity. Inspired by Zen philosophy, emphasizing balance, harmony, andnature.

Aesthetic Cleanlines,neutral colors, and geometricforms Natural materials, asymmetry, and integration with nature.

Material Concrete,glass,steel andstone. Wood,paperscreens (shoji),bamboo,and tatami.

Example TadaoAndo’sWater Temple Katsura Imperial Villa

Table 3 Comparison of principles of two different design ideologies-3

5.4 Minimalism vs. Scandinavian design

MinimalismandScandinaviandesignbothvaluesimplicity, functionality,andcleanaesthetics,buttheydifferintoneand warmth. While minimalism often leans toward stark, monochromepalettesandextremereduction,Scandinavian designaddscozinessthroughsofttextures,lightwood,and muted earthy tones. The result is a minimal yet inviting environmentrootedincomfortandpracticality

Aspect Minimalism Scandinavian Design

Philosophy Extreme reduction to achieve clarity andfocus. Minimalismblended with warmth and functionality.

Aesthetic Starksimplicitywith aneutralpalette. Soft minimalism withwarm,natural tones.

Material Natural materials like raw concrete, Steel, glass, and reinforcedconcrete wood,andstone. for industrial efficiency.

International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395-0056

Volume: 12 Issue: 04 | Apr 2025 www.irjet.net p-ISSN: 2395-0072

Material Concrete,glassand metal. Wood, wool, and light-colored materials.

Example MiesvanderRohe’s BarcelonaPavilion Alvar Aalto’s Villa Mairea

Table 4 Comparison of principles of two different design ideologies-4

6. DISCUSSION

The research affirms that minimalism plays a vital role in shaping environments that are emotionally soothing and ecologicallyresponsible.Itsemphasisonspatialclarityand natural materials aligns with modern needs for mental wellness and sustainability. The integration of Zen and Bauhausideologiesallowsminimalismtobalanceformand functionwhileprovidingculturaldepth.

Minimaliststrategiesareoftenchosennotforstylisticnovelty butasconsciousresponsestooverconsumption,visualchaos, and resource depletion. However, its successful implementation depends on an understanding of its philosophical roots and thoughtful design choices that prioritizecomfortandpersonalization.

Theessenceofminimalismliesnotintheabsenceofthings, but in the intentional presence of only what matters. This distinctioniscritical.Goodminimalistdesigndoesnotaimfor sterile perfection, but for considered clarity. The visual silence it creates allows for the amplification of human experience how light travels, how sound moves, how texturesfeelunderfoot.Thesesubtlequalitiesarewhatmake minimalistspacesresonateonanemotionallevel.

Moreover, minimalism is inherently dynamic. It adapts to culture, geography, and changing needs. In climates with abundant sunlight, it utilizes openness and reflection. In colder settings, it adopts warmth through insulation and texture.Thisabilitytoadaptmakesithighlyapplicableacross global contexts from compact urban apartments to open ruralretreats.

The integration of sensory design touch, sound, temperature,andscent alsoplaysagrowingroleinmodern minimalism. Designers are moving beyond the visual to createspacesthatsoothetheentirenervoussystem.Tactile surfaces, subtle acoustics, and natural ventilation become toolsforemotionalwellness,aligningphysicalenvironment withmentalclarity.

6.1 Minimalism and Technology Integration

While minimalism traditionally emphasizes simplicity and analog living, it has recently adapted to include smart technology in subtle and integrated ways. The modern minimalisthomeoftenincorporateshiddensmartsystems lighting, climate control, and security that enhance

functionalitywithoutdisruptingvisualserenity.Deviceslike voice-controlledassistantsandautomatedlightingsystems can be seamlessly embedded into minimalist interiors, allowing occupants to maintain technological convenience withoutclutteringspacewithvisiblehardware.

Smartdesigncanalsosupportsustainabilitygoals.Energyefficient appliances, solar panel systems, and intelligent homeautomationcanbeusedtomonitorandreduceenergy consumption.Theseadvancementsalignwithminimalism’s ethos of thoughtful resource use and environmental responsibility. When used judiciously, technology complementsminimalistlivingbypromotingease,control, and awareness all within a visually restrained environment.

6.2 Expanding the Role of Materiality

Anotherkeyareaofgrowthinminimalistdesignistheuseof sustainable and regionally sourced materials. The earlier focusonmaterialslikeconcrete,wood,andglasshasevolved to include bamboo, recycled stone, reclaimed timber, and earth-basedcomposites.Thisevolutionrepresentsadeeper commitment to environmental ethics within minimalist frameworks.

Minimalistspacesnowprioritizenotjustmaterialhonesty, but also material storytelling using elements that reflect local culture, artisanal craftsmanship, or a narrative of repurposing.Thishelpstoaddcharacterandhumanwarmth to otherwise restrained spaces, balancing starkness with culturaldepth.

7. CONCLUSION

Minimalism is more than a stylistic expression it is a reflection of deeper values such as mindfulness, sustainability, and intentional living. By reducing spatial clutter and emphasizing quality over quantity, minimalist design creates environments that are both aesthetically pleasingandemotionallyrestorative.

Asarchitectureanddesigncontinuetoevolveinresponseto environmental pressures, social shifts, and digital acceleration, minimalism remains uniquely positioned to offer enduring solutions. It simplifies without stripping, it clarifieswithouterasing,anditinvitesuserstobepresent.Its successliesinitsadaptability notonlyinaesthetics,butin thewayitintegratesnewtechnologies,localmaterials,and humanrituals.Minimalism,atitsbest,isanarchitectureof empathy onethatlistenstotheneedsoftheplanetandthe peopleinhabitingit.

The results of this study show that when minimalism is appliedwithsensitivityandpurpose,itcanyieldspacesthat are not only beautiful but also profoundly humane. Its adaptability across cultures and disciplines ensures its continued relevance in addressing the challenges of 21st-

International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) e-ISSN: 2395-0056

Volume: 12 Issue: 04 | Apr 2025 www.irjet.net p-ISSN: 2395-0072

century living urban stress, environmental degradation, andthepsychologicalburdenofoverstimulation.

Minimalism,initspurestform,isnotaboutdeprivationbut aboutmakingroom forclarity,calm,andconsciousliving.

8. ACKNOWLEDGMENT

I sincerely thank Prof. Meghna Sutaria for her invaluable guidanceandunwaveringsupportthroughoutthisresearch. Her insightful feedback, encouragement, and critical perspectivegreatlycontributedtoshapingthedirectionand depth of this study. I am also deeply grateful to the homeownerswhogenerouslysharedtheirtime,experiences, and insights, making this research both meaningful and grounded in real-world contexts. Their openness and willingness to engage in thoughtful dialogue enriched the qualityofthefindings.

I would like to extend my appreciation to the design professionalswhoparticipatedinthesurveyandinterviews; their expertise and honest reflections added depth to the study’sanalysis.Iamalsothankfultomypeersandfriends whoprovidedthoughtfulsuggestions,emotionalsupport,and encouragementduringtheresearchprocess.

REFERENCES

[1] Chayka, K. (2016). The longing for less: Living with minimalism.BloomsburyPublishing.

[2] Goad, P. (2005). New directions in Australian architecture.PesaroPublishing.

[3] Juniper, A. (2003). Wabi Sabi: The Japanese art of impermanence.TuttlePublishing.

[4] Pawson,J.(2004). Minimum.PhaidonPress.

[5] TadaoAndo.(2010). From emptiness to infinity.Rizzoli.

[6] McMains,S.A.,&Kastner,S.(2011).Interactionsoftopdown and bottom-up mechanisms in human visual cortex. Journal of Neuroscience, 31(2),587–597.

[7] “Minimalism in Modern Interiors.” Architizer, https://architizer.com/idea/3877690/.

[8] “The Grand Alabaster.” 23DC Architects, https://www.23dcarchitects.com/projects/the-grandalabaster/

[9] Chakrabarti,A.(2017). IndianPhilosophy:VolumeI:With an Introduction by J. N. Mohanty. Oxford University Press.

– Discusses traditional Indian philosophical values including moderation and the idea behind “ .”

[10] Dundas, P. (2002). The Jains (2nd ed.). Routledge. –AcomprehensivesourceonJainphilosophy,including theconceptofAparigraha(non-possession).

[11] Parel, A. J. (1997). Gandhi: Hind Swaraj and Other Writings. Cambridge University Press. –ExploresGandhi’sviewsonsimplicity,self-sufficiency, andminimalistliving.

[12] Fischer,L.(1983). The Life of Mahatma Gandhi.Harper Perennial.

– A detailed biography with emphasis on Gandhi's simplelifestyleandphilosophy.

[13] Kaur,R.(2020). Minimalism in Modern India: A Cultural Shift International Journal of Cultural Studies, 23(4), 487–501.

–DiscusseshowminimalismhasevolvedinIndiafrom itsspiritualrootstomodernsustainablelivingpractices.

List of tables

Table 1 Comparison of principles of two different design ideologies-1 1519

Table 2 Comparison of principles of two different design ideologies-2 1519

Table 3 Comparison of principles of two different design ideologies-3......................................................................................1519

Table 4 Comparison of principles of two different design ideologies-4 1520