Minimalism had its moment with its all-white walls, sleek furniture, and strict “less is more” rule. Then came maximalism with its bold prints, overflowing shelves and unapologetic flair. Now, somewhere beautifully in between, midimalism has emerged as the Goldilocks of design. Not too sparse, not too fussy, just right. And in the bedroom, it might just be the dreamiest interior trend yet.
What Exactly Is Midimalism?
Think of it as minimalism with a soul. Midimalist bedrooms still embrace clean lines and uncluttered surfaces, but they’re far from cold or clinical. They invite softness, personality and warmth. Instead of stark white everything, you’ll find earthy tones, tactile textures and carefully chosen objects that mean something.
It’s a more relaxed and realistic take on minimalist living. Perfect for people who want a calming space that still feels personal and lived-in.
The Midimalist Bedroom Formula
Creating a midimalist bedroom is all about balance.
- Neutral tones with depth: Forget plain white. Think soft creams, oatmeals, sage greens or dusty blues. These shades bring a peaceful feel without feeling flat or sterile.
- Natural textures: Wood, linen, rattan, jute, etc.; they’re all fair game. These materials add warmth and subtle interest, especially in a pared-back setting. A wooden bed frame or side table in oak or walnut instantly grounds the room.
- Intentional décor: Every item has a purpose; whether it’s functional or simply brings joy. A single sculptural lamp, an heirloom vase, or a well-thumbed book stack can make a quiet statement.
- Understated comfort: Cosiness is key but without excess. Layered bedding in neutral tones, a soft rug underfoot, and perhaps a boucle or velvet accent chair can elevate the space without overloading it.
It’s All in the Edit
Midimalism encourages restraint, but not to the point of feeling empty. The goal is a restful retreat that still tells your story. That might mean hanging a favourite print above the bed or choosing bedding in your go-to colour palette. It’s not about stripping everything back, instead it’s about curating the right things.
When editing a midimalist space, ask: Does this item serve a purpose or bring joy? Does it help create a calming mood? If the answer is yes, it stays.
How to Bring it Into Your Bedroom
Lighting: Soft, layered lighting is a staple in any midimalist bedroom. Rather than relying on a single overhead bulb, bring in variety. Consider a warm-toned bedside lamp, a subtle wall sconce, or even a candle or two for that end-of-day wind-down. Lighting should feel gentle and inviting, casting a cosy glow rather than harsh shadows.
Floors that feel just right: Flooring often gets overlooked, but it plays a big role in the overall tone of a room. In a midimalist bedroom, natural wood flooring, whether it’s engineered oak or sleek chevron pattern, adds warmth without stealing focus. Alternatively, a light-toned laminate or wood-effect LVT keeps things fuss-free while still feeling elevated.
Layering a textured rug over bare flooring is another midimalist move. Go for neutral colours, soft patterns or nubby weaves that add comfort underfoot without overwhelming the space.
Storage that blends in: Midimalist bedrooms still need to function, and that means storage. The trick is to hide clutter without hiding character. Think under-bed drawers, built-in wardrobes with clean lines, or floating shelves that display a few thoughtfully chosen items.
Open storage can work too, as long as it’s curated. A bedside table with a simple stack of books, a candle and a small plant? Perfection. Just keep the piles and excess to a minimum.
Why Midimalism Works for Bedrooms
Bedrooms should be restful by design; a place to recharge, unwind and escape the visual noise of daily life. Midimalism supports this by creating a setting that feels calm, yet full of personality. It dials down the chaos, but not the character.
There’s something deeply soothing about climbing into a bed where everything feels intentional and uncluttered, but still comforting. It’s a style that supports good sleep, clear thinking, and a slower pace. And who doesn’t need more of that?
Curated Calm is the New Cosy
Midimalist bedrooms are more than just a design trend. They’re a reflection of how people want to live now. Less clutter, more intention. Less noise, more nuance. It’s a style that feels calming to wake up in, and restorative to fall asleep in.
And the best part? It doesn’t demand perfection; just a bit of thought, some well-chosen details, and a willingness to let your personality shine through simplicity.