Hong Kong-based boutique design studio The Trace Creative describes itself as “dedicated to sculpting interiors that transcend mere aesthetics”. Founder SAM MARSDEN runs us through a recent project that shows this ethos in practice through a minimalist interior design theme. Read on to discover some small home design ideas and how to create a warm minimalist style yourself.
What was the design brief for this property?
The design brief was centred on creating a peaceful haven for the clients. They wanted a space conducive to relaxation and unwinding, free from the visual and physical clutter that can so easily accumulate in small urban living environments. The clients’ diverse interests, ranging from outdoor camping to skiing, also necessitated a versatile storage solution capable of neatly concealing everything from bulky items to everyday household items.
In addition to functional storage, the aesthetic goal was to cultivate a light, airy atmosphere that seamlessly blends the indoors with the outdoors.
What’s a common misconception with minimalist interior design?
Some argue that a minimalist style, which emphasises empty spaces, clean lines and often a monochromatic colour palette, isn’t practical, especially in Hong Kong where living spaces are small. There is a misconception that a minimalist design leaves homeowners with insufficient storage space. This, in turn, leads to cluttered and impractical living environments.
This view overlooks the core principles of minimalist design, which prioritises efficiency and the thoughtful use of space. Far from encouraging bare, unusable spaces, true minimalist style seeks to maximise functionality. It does this through clever storage solutions and also the careful selection of furnishings that are both practical and aesthetically pleasing.
The minimalist approach to interior design is ideally suited to Hong Kong’s constrained living environments. By focusing on simplicity, clarity and the elimination of unnecessary elements, minimalist interiors can make small spaces feel larger, more open and more inviting.
For those looking for small home design ideas, what were some hidden storage solutions with this property?
Noting that the apartment ceilings are 3.2-metres high, we raised the bedroom floor to allow for storage in the steps leading up to the bedroom, under the floor and under the bed. At the same time, we retained a generous 2.6-metre ceiling height. These strategically hidden storage spaces are perfect for bulky items. The integration of drawers within the steps leading to the elevated platform adds functionality and ease. Meawhile, the lower ceiling height creates a more cosy and comfortable sleeping environment.
Minimalist interior design approaches can sometimes have a “cold” feel. What minimalist style features made this space feel like a home?
We used a neutral colour palette to form the backdrop of the interior throughout. It serves as the canvas that allows for tone and colour through textiles and decorative objects that infuse personality and warmth into the space without compromising the minimalist aesthetic.
The feature neutral wallcovering on the TV cabinet adds visual and tactile richness and warmth. The same goes for the ribbed timber wall flanking the TV. The ribbed timber also helped to conceal the door separating the living room from the sleeping portion of the apartment, removing visual clutter. These textural materials also absorb sound, softening the acoustics of the room.
Additionally, the natural lines and subtle variations in the timber grain add a softness and a sensory experience. These help make the home feel more personal and lived in.
What colours, textures and materials did you use? What impact did these have?
Using timbers known for their stress-relieving properties, and calming colour palettes like greens and light tan tones, the design directly contributes to an enhanced living environment conducive to relaxation and mental health improvement.
As a specific example, adjusting the orientation of timber ribs in the bedroom to horizontal lines exemplifies how physical aspects of design can influence the psychological state. The aim, in this case, was to reduce anxiety for the clients. This is often a much-needed thing after a long day in a lawyer’s office!
@thetracecreative | thetracecreative.com
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