Features of minimalist home design plans are much different from those of a traditional house. Building such a house still requires the use of standard principles of construction and architecture. The difference is that floor space is optimized and the space flows from one area to another.

Usually, inner walls are limited. They may simply create alcoves. It is not uncommon for a bathroom space to simply be divided from a bedroom, by a couple perpendicular walls. Many of the inner walls do not reach the ceiling. They are designed for privacy, while allowing air to flow freely throughout the home. The result is a more even temperature.

Such architecture also creates an illusion of a larger living space. Residents of such a house can relax and move about freely, without feeling so confined. The common living spaces, such as the kitchen, dining area and living room, often flow from one to another, without walls to clearly define the spaces. Distinctions come from placement of furniture, use of shelving units or the addition of a narrow wall or posts.

Stairways in such houses are very wide and open. The Entries usually flow right into the living spaces. Doors to patios or decks are made of glass and tend to look more like windows, when not in use.

The outside structure of such a home is typically designed with clean lines, even if the occasional odd shape is seen. Everything is geometric. There is very little roundness in the structure.

Minimalist home decorating is typically sleek, multi-purpose, and clean. Although some design magazines like to portray minimalist homes as empty boxes with a pretty chair in the corner, most homes of this style include all the usual furnishings. Decorative objects are typically large, well chosen pieces, spaced sparingly throughout the home-a large painting in one room, a sculpture in another. Art is placed so that it creates maximum visual impact, without having to compete with other objects in the room.

Minimalist homes are ideal for those who value serene environments and no clutter. Despite the lack of “things” in a minimalist home, they feature creatively designed spaces that take advantage of light, texture, and color to create a mood. In addition, many minimalist designs include ecologically friendly technology, such as sun tube lighting and bamboo floors, which makes them attractive to green consumers, as well.

Minimalist home design differs from modern home plans in several ways. While a modern design may include traditional features such as elaborate molding, tray ceilings, or patterned tile floors, minimalist designs are defined by what isn’t included. The appeal of a minimalist home is related to what isn’t seen, rather than how many features it has.

Make no mistake, however-many minimalist homes are loaded with cool features. They just aren’t obvious. Sleek ceiling to floor cabinets can provide storage without disrupting visual flow, and fold-out, built in furnishings can be hidden around the home. Some minimalist homes include unique features, such as in-floor storage or movable interior walls on hidden tracks, which allow the homeowner to literally transform their rooms into whatever configuration they want.