International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET)
e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 12 Issue: 04 | Apr 2025
p-ISSN: 2395-0072
www.irjet.net
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
a counterbalance—a deliberate reduction of visual noise and material excess to create spaces that emphasize purpose, peace, and well-being.
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 spatial efficiency in both interior and 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 structured survey of 25 professionals, and case study analyses of minimalist works by architects. The findings reveal that minimalist spaces enhance mental clarity, emotional calm, and functional simplicity while 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 continued relevance in the global design landscape.
Rooted in Zen Buddhism and refined through Western modernist movements such as Bauhaus, minimalism emphasizes “less but better.” It advocates for the intentional elimination of non-essential elements, enabling design to focus on what truly matters: function, proportion, light, and material honesty. This research investigates how minimalism has evolved into a culturally adaptive and emotionally resonant design approach, particularly in interior and architectural contexts. The study explores how minimalist strategies are applied in contemporary practice to achieve sustainable, psychologically supportive, and spatially efficient environments.
1.1 HYPOTHESIS Minimalist interior design positively contributes to psychological well-being, promotes sustainability, and enhances spatial usability in contemporary residential and architectural settings. 1.2 Objectives
Key Words: Minimalism, Interior Design, Contemporary Architecture, Sustainability, Design Psychology, Spatial Clarity
1. INTRODUCTION
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To examine the philosophical and historical foundations of minimalism
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To identify key design principles and their practical application
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To evaluate the impact of minimalism on well-being and sustainability
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To compare minimalist design with related movements such as Modernism, and Zen architecture
2. THEORETICAL BACKGROUND
Minimalism has become an influential movement in contemporary design, extending beyond visual aesthetics to address the psychological, environmental, and functional needs of the modern world. As global urbanization accelerates and digital distractions multiply, individuals increasingly seek environments that offer calm, clarity, and authenticity. In response, minimalist design has emerged as
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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
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