Refined Minimalism: Jasmina Dizdarević’s Blueprint
In a world that seems to favour excess, clutter, and constant stimulation, the allure of minimalism grows stronger. The idea of minimalism, which emphasizes simplicity, clean lines, and a focus on functionality, has captured the hearts of many people searching for a more serene and elegant lifestyle.
Join us with Jasmina Dizdarević, a renowned interior designer and architect, as she shows us her unique perspective on creating refined minimalist spaces.
Who is Jasmina Dizdarević?
Jasmina Dizdarević is an accomplished architect and empowered entrepreneur with a Ph.D. in Urbanism, Design, and Planning of Urbanistic Public Spaces.
Her design philosophy is based on the belief that a well-designed space can have a significant impact on the well-being and productivity of the people who use it. Her dedicated approach and unique flair make Jasmina the essential guide for those seeking to transform their homes into serene havens.
Renowned for her innovative approaches, she skillfully integrates cultural and historical elements into architecture and design, paying attention to even the tiniest details. We can confidently say that every living space Jasmina touches is passionately infused with life and beauty.
So today, with Jasmina as our guide, we’ll get to explore the key elements of minimalist design and how to infuse them in your home!
Jasmina's Take On the Philosophy of Minimalism
“Minimalism isn’t only about getting rid of things or adopting a simple aesthetic. It is a mindset—a way of thinking that embraces impact and purposefulness. At its core, minimalism is a reaction against the noise and clutter of modern life, calling for intentional and meaningful design choices,” says Jasmina.
She continues, “Minimalism encourages a shift in consumer behaviour, promoting conscious consumption and sustainability. Rather than constantly seeking out the latest trends and accumulating possessions for the sake of ownership, minimalists prioritise quality over quantity and seek out items that bring long-lasting value, meaning, and joy.
This mindful approach to consumption not only reduces waste but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the things we choose to surround ourselves with.”
The Core Principles of Minimalism
Jasmina says that aside from philosophy, minimalism is built upon a few fundamental principles that guide every aspect of the design process. In her words, “The first principle of minimalism is the famous ‘less is more’, which essentially means decluttering your space and leaving room only for objects that hold purpose and value.
By doing this, you’re making sure that every glance in your living space gives a sense of calm and harmony.”
Moving forward, she continues to highlight function and simplicity as the other two core principles of minimalism. “The idea is to choose decor and furniture that hold practical function while maintaining simple aesthetic appeal.
By eliminating unnecessary distractions, you’ll allow your eyes to focus only on the essential elements, creating a sense of visual harmony and balance. These principles ensure that your living space will not only remind you of the simplistic approach to life but will also ensure the items surrounding you contain everyday functions.”
In addition to the principles mentioned, sustainability is becoming increasingly important in minimalist design. Many designers are now incorporating eco-friendly materials and practices into their minimalist projects to reduce their environmental impact. This focus on sustainability reflects a need for responsible design choices in today’s world.
Jasmina's Blueprint for Minimalist Design
So, what does Jasmina Dizdarević’s blueprint for minimalist design include? Let’s explore the key elements that define her approach:
Colour Schemes
Jasmina says for her, the first step is always setting the colour schemes. As she puts it, “I believe in using a neutral colour palette as the foundation of a minimalist space. Shades of white, beige, and grey create a sense of openness and purity, allowing the space to breathe.
This way, you emphasise the natural beauty of the materials and textures used. However, for those who like a little colour, I suggest using subtle colourful pops through carefully chosen decor or artwork. This way, you can add personality and warmth, without the space overwhelming your senses.”
Furniture Selection
When it comes to furniture, Jasmina says that she favours pieces with clean lines and a timeless aesthetic, putting an emphasis on simplicity and materials.
As she puts it, “I am a big fan of modular furniture when it comes to minimalistic style, as it can be rearranged to maximise functionality and adapt to changing needs. Furthermore, the organic shape and clean lines blend seamlessly into any space without compromising the balance of aesthetics.
This way, you get to focus particularly on texture and materials, bringing a subtle sophistication to the overall design,”
Maximising Space
As Jasmina said, one of the hallmarks of minimalism is the efficient use of space. Jasmina believes in decluttering and organising every square inch, ensuring that everything has its place and serves a purpose.
To achieve this, she suggests, “Practicality here is your best friend. Opt for clever storage solutions such as built-in shelving, hidden compartments, and multi-functional furniture. By doing this, you effectively remove visual clutter, have a space for your dear possessions, and your living space gets to feel both airy and organised.”
Home Decor
When it comes to selecting decor items, Jasmina follows the mantra “quality over quantity”, but what does it essentially mean?
As she puts it, “Rather than filling a space with random trinkets, I recommend selecting a few meaningful and high-quality pieces that reflect your personality and aesthetics. My personal touch here is integrating artisan pieces that carry culture and history.
Pieces that go beyond design, that carry centuries of practice and meaning, reminding you every day of the beauty of civilisation.”
Jasmina's Additional Tips for Minimalist Decor
Besides artisan pieces, Jasmina gives us a few additional tips for including minimalist home decor:
Texture and Materials: “Incorporate textures like linen, cotton, and natural fibres to add depth and tactile interest.”
Lighting: “Use natural light as much as possible and complement it with soft, ambient lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.”
House Plants: “Introduce house plants, which will purify the air and add a vibrant touch of nature, besides enriching the minimalist aesthetic.”
Natural Elements: “Incorporate elements like stone or wood to bring an organic, earthy feel to your home. You can do this through flooring, countertops, or window and door frames.”
Negative Space: “Also known as white space, is cleaning out the area around your accent decor items. This way, you allow the items to serve their purpose, by emphasising the room as accents.”
How to Get Started: Jasmina's Step-by-Step Guide
Embarking on a minimalist journey might seem daunting at first, but Jasmina offers a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Declutter: Begin by assessing your belongings and getting rid of anything that no longer serves a purpose or brings you joy.
Define your Style: Take time to reflect on your personal style and the aesthetic you want to achieve. Research minimalist design inspiration to help guide your choices; a great source for examples is Minimalissimo.
Plan the Layout: Consider the flow and functionality of your space. Look for ways to maximize storage and optimise the arrangement of furniture.
Invest in Quality: When purchasing new items, prioritise quality pieces that will stand the test of time.
Add Finishing Touches: Incorporate carefully chosen decor items that enhance the overall aesthetic and reflect your personality and interests.
Read Jasmina’s guide on how to include WAGA pieces in your home that are sure to add the minimalist accent you’re looking for!
Conclusion
In conclusion, Jasmina Dizdarević’s blueprint for a refined minimalist home combines simplicity, functionality, and a conscientious approach to designing serene and elegant spaces.
It puts an emphasis on choosing items that hold value, either through cultural meaning or simple and functional design. Whether you are looking to completely transform your space or introduce subtle minimalist elements, her design philosophy serves as an inspiring guide to achieving an elegant and harmonious home.
