Minimalist vs Maximalist Office Furniture
Selecting office furniture is a significant decision for any organization. It’s not only about functionality, but also creating a workspace that aligns with your identity and culture. While there are dozens of different styles – contemporary, modern, traditional, industrial, and more – let’s discuss the differences between minimalist and maximalist furniture.
Minimalist Furniture
Minimalism is characterized by:
- Simplicity & clean lines
- “Less is more”
- Clutter-free, yet functional workspaces
WHY YOU SHOULD GO FOR IT: Minimalist office design can create a clean, organized, and professional look. Promoting a clutter-free environment can help employees stay more focused and organized. Industries where a formal appearance is important lean towards minimalism because of the sophisticated vibe that goes along with it.
A WORD OF CAUTION: Some believe that minimalism can be bland or lack personality. Also, limiting visual clutter can be restrictive for employees who need to utilize equipment, supplies, and other materials regularly.
THE FURNITURE TAKE: Minimalist furniture can be versatile and adapted into various office layouts and sizes. The minimalist aesthetic can work with a limited color pallet when fewer finish options are available. Add plenty of storage to reduce visual clutter yet remain functional. You can create visual interest with pops of color or texture.
If you’re interested in minimalist furniture options, the Furniture By Perry team can help you find the right balance to prevent your workspace from falling into this category!
Maximalist Furniture
Maximalism is characterized by:
- Bold colors, patterns, and textures
- Personal expression
- Creating a visually stimulating workspace
WHY YOU SHOULD GO FOR IT: The maximalist approach is great for inspiring creativity and expressive branding, plus, it can offer a comfortable and personalized workspace for your team. Some find that a vibrant and expressive workspace can lead to higher employee satisfaction.
A WORD OF CAUTION: It’s important that this fun, maximalist environment doesn’t become overwhelming, though, as excessive decor and furniture can be distracting or confusing.
THE FURNITURE TAKE: Whether using large imposing furniture, or simply injecting extra color and texture into the typical pieces, there are more options than ever before for a commercial workspace to be bold and exciting, while maintaining a professional work environment.
So, how can you determine what works best for you?
There are several key ideas to consider when trying to determine what type of style you want to furnish your workplace with:
- Brand: Consider how your chosen style aligns with your brand’s values and personality.
- Industry: Creative or lively organizations may lean toward a bolder approach, while more traditional or formal teams could prefer more minimalist furnishings.
- Employee Interest: Seek your team’s input on what makes them both comfortable and productive.
- Budget: While a maximalist look might require more or larger furnishings and minimalist furniture can have lower costs due to simplicity, this is not always the case!
Above all, we suggest consulting a designer to help you make decisions and create a space that balances form and function.
The Perry Office Plus Furniture team has experienced, in-house designers and project managers ready to help bring your office goals to life. We can help you incorporate elements of various styles to create a unique and comfortable workplace suited to YOU!
Check out some of our previous work and meet the team at FurnitureByPerry.com.