Minimalism is often associated with decluttering and donating or tossing unused items. While minimalist design encourages less clutter, it’s not just about getting rid of items. Minimalism involves intentionally keeping only the items you value and that serve a purpose.

"Minimal design is clean and sophisticated, but it is also practical," says Sarah Tract, interior designer and founder of Sarah Tract Interiors. "Focus on the items that will last a lifetime, both aesthetically and functionally."

The items minimalists keep in their homes are deliberate, practical, yet stylish and timeless. Continue reading to discover the five essentials that minimalist designers always keep in their homes.

• Steph Schlegelmilch is the founder and creative director of Studio Seva.
• Sarah Tract is an interior designer and founder of Sarah Tract Interiors.

1. Linen Curtains

Steph Schlegelmilch, founder and creative director of Studio Seva, says she always incorporates sheer linen draperies into her designs. "They always provide our designs with so much warmth and finish off our spaces beautifully," Schlegelmilch says.

Linen is renowned for being both light and durable, lasting for years if properly cared for. Additionally, it softens with age so that linen drapes will become warmer and softer over time. Use floor-length linen drapes in the living room and bedrooms to add privacy without blocking warm light. Consider using linen café curtains in the kitchen to let in even more natural light.

2. White Bedding

Minimalist designs often feature neutral color palettes because of their timelessness and versatility. This same rule applies to bedding. "I would never get rid of white bedding," Tract says. "It’s clean, crisp, and sophisticated."

Use white bedding as a blank canvas to showcase a patterned blanket or textured pillow, or feature an entire set of white bedding to create a serene space. If you opt to add color or pattern with throw pillows, Schlegelmilch advises sticking to one or two pillows for a clean and refined look. Too many pillows can appear cluttered.

Credit:

Kirsten Francis / Interior Designer: Studio Seva

3. Ceramics

Schlegelmilch says she never gets rid of her favorite ceramic pieces when decluttering. She likes to source pottery that is meaningful and tells a story so that it can serve as a stand-alone art piece. "Pottery is so versatile in a home and will always create interest with or without fresh-cut flowers," Schlegelmilch says.

Display your favorite ceramic vases and bowls on shelves in your home or on your dining table for a simple centerpiece. Fill with fresh or dried flowers, or choose to leave empty for a clean, polished look.

4. Heirlooms

According to Schlegelmilch, even if you’re decluttering to achieve a minimalist look, it’s best to hold onto vintage heirlooms and glassware. This might include home items that have been passed down through generations or a set of champagne glasses you found at a thrift store. Hanging onto antique pieces will create a collected and intentional look in your home that will not fade with passing trends. "Not only do these pieces have meaning, but mixing old and new feels the most authentic to us," Schlegelmilch says.

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Reid Rolls / Interior Designer: Sarah Tract

5. Statement Light Fixtures

Think twice before replacing your light fixture to match your minimalist aesthetic. Because most elements in minimalist design are clean and straightforward, Tract says she always incorporates a statement light fixture into her designs to ground the space. Consider hanging a group of pendant lights in your dining room or kitchen, or installing decorative sconces in your bathroom.