Minimalism style in architecture
Minimalism is an ultra-popular style in contemporary architecture. Its representatives and admirers can be found in every corner of the world. Many believe that minimalism is not just a style but a way of life and a way of thinking. Minimalism is diverse and multifaceted; it allows the creation of a home or interior that is not only modern but also original while expressing the individuality of its owner. In minimalist architecture, the goal is to express the maximum possible content with the minimum means.
Minimalism in visual arts emerged in New York in the early 1960s as a result of artists’ movement toward geometric abstraction. The style particularly flourished in American art from the 1960s to the early 1970s, influencing painting, sculpture, music, and, of course, architecture. However, the roots of minimalism can be traced back to avant-garde art of the 1920s and 1930s. The pursuit of simplicity in forms of expression can be observed in the works of K. Malevich and the representatives of Suprematism, V. Tatlin and the followers of Constructivism, as well as the artists and architects of the Bauhaus school. The slogan “Less is more,” proclaimed by Mies van der Rohe, became the motto of minimalism.



Minimalism can rightfully be considered one of the most significant achievements of 20th-century architecture. Its popularity has not waned to this day, vividly manifesting itself in architecture and interior design from the late 20th to the early 21st century. Architectural minimalism is convenient and practical; it represents a pure functional style that frees a person from all excess. This is why it is often chosen when building a private home or renovating an interior.
The idea of simplicity, the play of light and shadow, and an understanding of the beauty of natural materials and forms are key not only to minimalist architecture but also to all Japanese culture. This is why minimalism has become widely spread in Japan. Moreover, it is in Japan that minimalism has developed a strong connection with traditional cultural values.
The history of Japanese architecture testifies to a commitment to clean lines and forms, natural colors—these are key characteristics of a culture based on the values of “wabi-sabi.” “Sabi” represents naturalness, genuineness, authenticity, while “wabi” embodies the beauty of simplicity and subtlety. “Wabi-sabi” is not just a characteristic of Japanese philosophy of beauty; these categories have been a part of the Japanese worldview for many centuries and are key to understanding its modest, unpretentious beauty. The essence of “wabi-sabi” is conveyed by the Japanese proverb: “The beauty of a flower lies in a single blossom.”
Japanese minimalism is based on the understanding that authenticity is more important than ornamentation. Its distinctive feature is achieving simplicity and expressiveness in composition with a minimum of details. The layout should be logical and rational, allowing for an enjoyment of the feeling of spatial freedom while simultaneously making the space as functional as possible. The Japanese prefer items made of natural materials with visible natural textures. Handmade items are especially valued, even with slight imperfections, which only add to the uniqueness of the piece.
Lighting plays a crucial role in Japanese minimalist architecture, allowing for the creation of unconventional spatial solutions and achieving harmony in the entire composition. A great deal of attention is paid to natural light, which should penetrate the interior. However, the light should be soft and diffused, creating a comfortable semi-shadow.
A special role in interior design is increasingly being given to luxurious minimalism. The principles of minimalist chic celebrate the triumph of expensive simplicity, an abundance of light, and premium-class materials, while maintaining the ideas of conciseness.
Among contemporary Japanese architects, there are quite a few proponents of minimalism. From the older generation, Fumihiko Maki stands out, whose works follow the trends of architectural minimalism, connecting this style with the national tradition of strict order and utmost simplicity. Fumihiko Maki’s minimalist projects captivate with their sophistication. They are characterized by clean geometric forms and an emphasis on open space, utilizing all aesthetic possibilities of the interplay of light and shadow.

One of the most prominent representatives of Japanese minimalism in architecture is Tadao Ando. By choosing concrete for nearly all his structures, Ando has made this material a hallmark of his work. Despite the material’s roughness, Ando always embeds a subtle understanding of beauty in its transience and changeability, inherent in Japanese culture. Light plays a special role in his works, creating the necessary harmonious artistic image. According to Japanese aesthetics, not only the contours but also the volume and depth of things are created by light and shadow. Their interplay gives space individuality, breathing life into a work of architecture. Tadao Ando’s works are a perfect confirmation of this.
Among the younger generation of Japanese architects, Kazuyo Sejima and Ryue Nishizawa, who formed the SANAA group, have already become classics of Japanese minimalism. Their works are always restrained, but they are distinguished by a rich architectural language. When using materials such as concrete, steel, aluminum structures, and glass in architecture, SANAA’s buildings are characterized by lightness and transparency, and the organization of internal space, which appears free and fluid, maximizes all conceptual and artistic means of minimalism.

Ideologist+ collaborates with leading and young Japanese architects. With us, you can order a project for a private house or commercial building in the minimalist style, which is currently more relevant than ever and continues to gain popularity. Minimalism is replacing classical design, and Japanese architects are at the forefront of this trend.