Utilism vs. uselessnism
In praise of the useful and the understated
“To be happy, stop saying “yes” to the things that make you miserable.” — The Minimalists
Usefulness over spectacle
In a short but sharp essay titled Utilism vs. Uselessnism, designer Jasper Morrison explores the difference between things that quietly serve a purpose and things that shout for attention.
He introduces the idea of utilism—a mindset that values usefulness as the foundation of good design. It’s not about showing off. It’s about making things that work, last, and feel right in everyday life.
“Utilism is an appreciation of the ordinary, a rejection of the extraordinary. It is a pursuit of the exceptional in the average.”
In contrast, uselessnism is described as design that’s more concerned with being noticed than being needed.
“Uselessnism is an illness. It manifests itself in forms and functions that are meaningless or exaggerated to attract attention.”
It’s a refreshing reminder that beauty often comes from clarity, not clutter—and that quiet, useful things tend to age better than bold statements.
The full piece is well worth a read: Utilism vs. Uselessnism by Jasper Morrison
00: Spiritual simplicity
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01: Journal
Read entries from the archive of the Minimalism Life® community journal
Trials of a minimalist collector: trying to find balance between collecting and minimalism
Words by Nicholas Hallows
What are we really decluttering? the healing magic of letting go of things
Words by Dr. Egypt Iredia
Step-by-step: how we got rid of everything to go on a full-time travel adventure
Words by Shannon Colton
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
A conversation with Hee Welling (interview)
Design for speed by PJ Onori (article)
04: Minimal lifestyle
Explore our list of curated lifestyle resources for simple living
Slowly: penpal reimagined (experiment/tool)
The 100 item challenge (blog)
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.
Stiksen: Premium caps from Sweden
Collars&Co: Minimalist polo shirts
JAK: Portuguese leather sneakers
Nordic Knots: Rugs inspired by the beauty of the Nordic light
The Resort Co: Eco-conscious and artisan vacation wear
Steele & Borough: Vegan, lightweight and water repellant bags
Escuyer: Accessories designed in Brussels
Void Watches: Simple Swedish timepieces
Meller: Minimal shades
Wahts: Minimal monochromatic menswear
Floyd: Unique and distinctive travel cases
Mismo: Bags and accessories from natural materials
Discover more minimal brands on minimalism.com
Truth bombs: https://synnthesis.substack.com/p/coming-soon
Interested what designs / products comes to mind for “uselessnism”