Over the years, more and more people have adopted the concept of minimalism in practically all aspects of their life. The reasons range from the most practical (ex. cost of living is less) to the most interesting (ex. not a lot of “garbage” in the home). It is important to note, however, that minimalism is a centuries-old concept. Way before our world became cluttered with all the high-tech gadgets we now have, people were already practicing the simpler way of living.
When it comes to homes or households, the Italian concept of minimalism is one of the most popular. Of late, quite a number of architects and interior designers have used Italian minimalist home designs as inspiration for their projects. There are only a few furniture – just the essentials – and the appliances are limited to the ones that are often used. The result is a clean, organized, and relaxing home.
But what is minimalism really all about?
What is Minimalism?
Minimalism is about paring down everything to the minimum; to only the items that you need to live comfortably and happily. In other words, you don’t need to keep over 100 pairs of shoes in the closet. You should have only one living room set. And your bathroom should not house a variety of shampoos, soaps, and conditioners.
What you actually do when you embrace minimalism is you “downsize” all the major aspects of your life – not just your home. It’s all about choosing which ones are most important to you and which ones are not – which ones you can live without. In my closet, for example, I found some clothes that have been with me for over 10 years. While they still fit me and are in good condition, I don’t recall wearing them in the last two years. So I decided to give them away; others, I decided to sell online.
Some people say minimalism is an effective way of de-cluttering and de-stressing. They say that those who live a minimalist lifestyle are usually the ones who are happiest, most productive, and most content.
This is why a lot of people are now trying to emulate the Italian way of living.
Italians are known to be live simple lives. While it’s true that they can have the most modern, high quality, and expensive items in their homes, these are only the ones that they need the most; the ones they use every day.
To give you a better idea of what Italian minimalist living is all about, here are some interesting facts about how simple their lives are.
4 Interesting Things About Italian Minimalist Living
1. Italians embrace simplicity. In their homes, they keep only the furniture and appliances they use every day. As such, it’s not unusual to enter an Italian home that has only a couch, an armchair, and a coffee table in the living room. Some even have kitchen counters that are bare or have only a coffeemaker or microwave oven.
2. Minimalist Italian homes are designed to maximize the use of space. For example, a condominium unit or apartment usually has a living/dining room area, a bedroom, and toilet & bath. Bedrooms normally do not have a TV set or any similar appliance. It’s just the bed.
In addition, a lot of Italian homes do not come with closets. Homeowners simply purchase one if they want it in their bedroom. And if ever there is a closet, it does not occupy half of the room. It’s just enough for one person’s clothes and accessories.
Most of the Italian minimalist homes have multifunctional furniture. So a kitchen counter can also serve as a dining table and a cocktail bar. Or the coffee table can also have drawers and function as an organizer.
3. A lot of Italian homes are naturally minimalist. While many of our homes here in the city have big, spacious gardens or lawns, in Italy, most of the houses are in close proximity to one another. And the residents don’t mind it! This is probably one of the reasons why there are plenty of townhouses in Italy.
I remember back in 1996 when my mom and I went to Rome, practically all the neighborhoods we passed by had townhouses. Even the inn we stayed in was located beside a townhouse.
4. Many Italian homes embrace the traditional style, which is minimalist in general. The lines are clean, the furniture is luxurious but limited to the most essential, and the colors are simple. They are organized and clutter-free. And they are sleek and elegant.
Italian Living in CDO
Here in Cagayan de Oro, there is a place where you can experience the Italian way of living. Primavera Residences is located in Uptown CDO, beside SM City. It does not only offer the convenience and luxury of Italian minimalist living, it is also an eco-friendly establishment. It is the perfect mix of comfortable living and sustainable development.
Developed by Italpinas Development Corporation, Primavera Residences boasts of the finest Italian architecture and craftsmanship, something you’ll love if you prefer minimalist living.
More Options for Italian Minimalist Living
If you’re looking for other options, then you’ll love what you’ll discover in Primavera City, Italpinas’ newest development here in CDO.
Launched in 2016, Primavera City is a mixed-use building that houses residential units, commercial establishments, offices, and even a hotel. Like Primavera Residences, it is eco-friendly and has functional and practical features and amenities. It is an epitome of high-quality Italian living.
If you want safety, convenience, comfort, and the perfect home for minimalist living, you should consider becoming a part of the Primavera City community. Check out their website for more details.
Minimalism may not be everyone’s choice, but it’s something worth considering – especially nowadays when our society can be quite stressful and modern technology can overpower the value of life. My husband and I have been thinking about trying it out. Maybe someday soon we will.
(Photos from Italpinas Development Corporation, unless indicated otherwise.)
Sources:
https://freshome.com/2014/08/07/why-italian-style-home-decor-is-so-popular/
https://www.minimalismonwheels.com/my-understanding-of-minimalism/
https://montrealgazette.com/life/homes/shelter-budding-entrepreneur-favours-minimalist-italian-style
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