Minimalism in Russian Style: Creating Comfort and Cozy in Standard Apartments

Have you ever entered an apartment where every item is in its place, nothing is extra, and yet it feels cozy? If yes, you have probably encountered minimalism. But how to apply these principles in typical Russian apartments where space is often scarce and items accumulate on shelves for years? Let's find out how to create a cozy minimalist space in our realities.

What is Minimalism in Russian Style?

Before we begin, let's clarify: minimalism in Russian style is not a sterile space without soul. It is a reasonable approach to organizing space and belongings that takes into account our habits and lifestyle specifics.

Step 1: Ruthless Sorting

Start with reviewing your belongings. Yes, that very one you've been postponing for years.

• Three-box rule: set up boxes labeled "keep", "discard", and "give away/sell". Sort items quickly without giving yourself time to hesitate.

• Bedtime question: ask yourself: "Have I used this item in the past year?" If not, it's probably not needed.

• Say goodbye to "just in case": leave this mindset behind. Free up space for life here and now.

Step 2: Multifunctionality Is Our Everything

In small apartments, every item should work for you.

• Daybed: a classic. Choose models with storage compartments.

• Transforming table: a dining table during the day, a workspace in the evening.

• Folding tables: attach a foldable table to the wall — an excellent solution for small kitchens.

Design: Pavel Foteev

Step 3: Vertical Storage

Use walls and space up to the ceiling.

• Wall-mounted shelves: perfect for the kitchen and bathroom.

• Shelves up to the ceiling: visually lift the ceiling and provide plenty of storage space.

• Hooks and organizers: hang on the walls to free up horizontal surfaces.

Design: Natalia Land

Step 4: Light and Color

Proper lighting and color palette work wonders.

• Light tones: use light shades for walls and large furniture. This visually expands the space.

• Accents: add bright details — pillows, paintings, vases — for warmth.

• Multi-level lighting: combine overhead light, wall sconces, and table lamps.

Step 5: Zone Separation Without Walls

In standard apartments, space is often limited. Learn to separate areas without partitions.

• Wardrobe partitions: an excellent way to divide a room into zones.

• Room dividers: a light and mobile solution for creating privacy.

• Rugs: use different rugs to visually separate zones in the room.

Design: Shushaniq Sarkisyan

Step 6: Smart Storage Systems

Every centimeter counts!

• Beds with lifting mechanisms: enormous storage space.

• Vacuum bags: for seasonal clothing and bedding.

• Shelf organizers: help maintain order and save space.

Design: Anastasia Gladysheva

Step 7: Digital Minimalism

Don't forget about the digital space.

• Digitalize documents: scan important papers and store them in the cloud.

• E-books: replace some paper books with electronic ones.

• Photo albums in your phone: keep a few favorite photos framed, move the rest to digital format.

Step 8: Coziness Without Clutter

Minimalism does not mean giving up coziness.

• Live plants: add life and freshness to the interior.
• Textiles: a few cozy blankets and pillows create an atmosphere.
• Candles and aromatherapy diffusers: for a pleasant atmosphere without extra items.

Design: Vitaliy Myasnikov

The Main Thing — Don't Overdo It

Remember that minimalism is not a competition of who has fewer items. It's about comfort and functionality. Don't get rid of items that are truly dear to you or needed.

Conclusion: Minimalism Is a Journey

Transitioning to a minimalist lifestyle is a process. Don't try to do everything at once. Start small, and gradually you'll notice how the space around you becomes freer, and life becomes simpler and more pleasant.

Minimalism in Russian Style is not about sterility and emptiness. It's about a reasonable approach to things, respect for space and time. It's an opportunity to focus on what truly matters — whether it's a hobby, communication with loved ones, or just a peaceful evening in a cozy, uncluttered apartment.

So, are you ready to start your journey toward minimalism?

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Cover: Design project by Anastasia Zarqua