Form with feeling
When simplicity holds meaning, not just aesthetics
“Real minimalism emerges when you find that perfect balance between purpose and form. Utility and humanity.” — Tobias van Schneider
Simplicity can and should be soulful
There's a misunderstanding about what minimalism truly is. Our current contemporary interpretation treats it as this surgical procedure in which you just remove absolutely everything until it all becomes so sterile that there is nothing left to hold on for us.
But minimalism isn't about creating aesthetic emptiness but about achieving clarity by focusing on what genuinely matters. When you strip away elements solely for the sake of the minimalist aesthetic, you're basically just performing an elaborate design theater rather than thinking about what it all really means. You end up with forms without soul.
Real minimalism emerges when you find that perfect balance between purpose and form. Utility and humanity. It sounds so cheesy, but I truly believe this.
Words by Tobias van Schneider
00: Before less had a name
Minimalism Life’s premium edition continues to peel back the layers of minimalism—not just as an aesthetic, but as a lens for living and creating. Through original essays, thoughtful reflections, and in-depth case studies, we explore where minimalism meets creativity, culture, consumerism, and intentional growth.
Not yet subscribed? Join us for $5/month or $50/year to unlock every essay—including our latest. The next edition arrives on June 4, reflecting on the presence and clarity found in quiet spaces before minimalism had a name. From museum rooms to Shaker dwellings, it’s a meditation on restraint, attention, and the slow cadences that once shaped extraordinary lives.
01: Journal
Read entries from the archive of the Minimalism Life® community journal
Words by Carl Philips
Sailing through simplicity: my journey from Dubai's glitz to a nomadic minimalist life
Words by Micka Touillaud
Three reasons to seek other POVs: we all do what we do for a reason
Words by The Minimalists
Share your story
Do you have an interesting story you would like to share on minimalism.com? We want to read about it. You have the opportunity write about your experience of how minimalism has impacted your life and get your words published in our community journal.
02: Minimal art
From our curated gallery
03: Minimal design
Explore our list of curated design resources
Internet Phone Book (book)
Le Corbusier's love for concrete (article/architecture)
Pillowtalk: audio app (tool/software)
04: Minimal lifestyle
Explore our list of curated lifestyle resources for simple living
Meditation postures by Walden (article)
05: Shop
Discover our hand-picked minimalist products in the Minimalism Life® shop
06: Brands anchored by simplicity and sustainability
Minimalism can mean frugality and owning less, but it can also mean supporting ethical brands with sustainability at their core. Here are a few you might find interesting—just remember, clothes are not an investment.
CLAE: Minimalist footwear from LA
Stiksen: Premium caps from Sweden
Collars&Co: Minimalist polo shirts
Dalgado: Timeless accessories made to last
Steele & Borough: Vegan, lightweight and water repellant bags
The Resort Co: Eco-conscious and artisan vacation wear
Escuyer: Accessories designed in Brussels
Floyd: Unique and distinctive travel cases
Meller: Minimal shades
Mismo: Bags and accessories from natural materials
Void Watches: Simple Swedish timepieces
Wahts: Minimal monochromatic menswear
Discover more minimal brands on minimalism.com