How to Style a Minimalist HDB Flat, From an Expert

In the bustling urban landscape, the allure of minimalism is undeniable. The art of achieving a refined and uncluttered living space is a timeless pursuit that can bring tranquillity and purpose to your home.

In this article, we unveil expert insights from our interior stylist, Adrika, who guides you through how to create a minimalist home that not only speaks simplicity but exudes sophistication.

For Adrika, no two homes are ever the same. With clients’ narratives always at the forefront, it’s her passion to help bring spaces to life! With a wealth of design knowledge built up over the last 8 years in the Interior Design industry, Adrika has styled thousands of homes - between Australia and Singapore!

Moving into a new home? Explore savings to help you elevate your space. Eligible for upcoming HDBs and condos only.

6 expert tips to style a minimalist HDB

Opt for sleek furniture with clean lines

When it comes to choosing furniture for a minimalist home, the emphasis is on clean lines, simple designs, functionality, and a focus on quality over quantity.

“Having clean lines contributes to a sense of order and visual clarity in the living space,” says Adrika. Avoid intricate patterns or ornate detailing, as these can disrupt the minimalist aesthetic.

For example, go for a sofa with a solid colour, straight arms, and a clean silhouette. Adrika recommends opting for neutral fabrics to complement the minimalist theme.

The Hamilton Round Chaise Sectional Sofa is the perfect addition to a minimalist home. Picture credits: @mareenah

Put more emphasis on functional furniture

Invest in multifunctional furniture that serves a dual purpose without compromising on style. This eliminates the need for excess storage solutions or decorative items, promoting a clean and organised living space.

“Look for pieces that provide ample storage, such as coffee tables with drawers, storage beds, or extendable dining tables,” says Adrika. This not only maximises space but also reduces the need for unnecessary decor items.

The Andre Coffee Table features storage beneath a rotatable surface. Picture credits: @houseofomotayo

Embrace an open layout

“A streamlined layout involves the intentional arrangement of furniture which prioritises flow and simplicity. This minimises visual clutter and doesn’t disrupt the visual harmony of the space,” says Adrika.

She mentions that you should arrange your furniture to create clear pathways and avoid overcrowding any area of your home.

@alchemists_design ensures an open layout with minimal furniture pieces and a bright space. Pictured: The Jonathan Extended Side Chaise Sectional Sofa with Ottoman.

“An open layout not only looks aesthetically pleasing but also makes cleaning and maintenance more straightforward. This aligns with the minimalist lifestyle of simplicity and efficiency.”

Balance negative and positive space

“People often mistake minimalist homes to have lots of empty spaces,” says Adrika. “But, a true minimalist home has a good balance of the empty and occupied space.”

As minimalist designs are rooted in simplicity and elegance, balancing negative (empty) and positive (occupied) spaces ensures an uncomplicated and refined home. It eliminates unnecessary visual distractions, contributing to the overall spaciousness and airiness of your home.

@gohbiggohome balances out the positive and negative spaces with furniture, decor, and ample space around each piece of furniture. Pictured: The Adams 3-Seater Sofa with Ottoman.

One way to achieve balance is by creating zones in your home and leaving enough space between each piece to allow for a comfortable flow.

Recommended read: How to Style Positive and Negative Space in Interior Design

Go for a neutral colour palette

“A subdued colour palette reduces visual clutter and promotes a sense of openness. It also allows key pieces of furniture to stand out, emphasising their functional and aesthetic significance,” says Adrika.

Start by choosing a colour palette dominated by neutral tones such as whites, greys, and muted earthy shades. These colours create a calming atmosphere and serve as a blank canvas for other elements in the room. You can then add pops of colour around the space to add visual interest and prevent monotony.

@sureenfoo sticks to browns, beiges, and hints of rattan in their home for a clean and uniform aesthetic. Pictured: The Hamilton 3-Seater Sofa.

Opt for furniture and decor items in these hues to maintain a cohesive and understated look. Adrika recommends choosing furniture made from natural materials like wood, stone, or metal to complement the colour scheme and add a touch of warmth.

Select decoration thoughtfully

As a minimalist lifestyle is about embracing a well-thought-out, unpretentious environment, Adrika suggests adopting a less-is-more approach.

“Select one or two statement pieces so that you focus on the essential elements that contribute to the overall aesthetic and functionality of your home.” For example, instead of cluttering the walls with numerous small artworks, choose a statement piece that reflects the room's overall theme or your personality.

@cherriepei.id chooses a rattan mirror and pendant lamps as the focal point in this dining area. Pictured: The Vincent Dining Table in Oak.

Consider incorporating natural elements like potted plants or simple geometric artwork to add visual interest without overwhelming the space.

In the pursuit of minimalism within your HDB flat, these tips serve as a guide to transforming your living space into a haven of tranquillity and purpose. From the serenity of a neutral palette to the functionality of an open layout, we hope these tips can help foster a sense of calm sophistication within your home, where every space breathes with intentionality.

If you need more help creating a minimalist home, book a styling consultation and enjoy personalised space planning and styling advice from our Interior Stylists!