The Minimalist's Home Guide
Philosophy
As a Christian homemaker, the concept of minimalism aligns beautifully with our faith's emphasis on simplicity, gratitude, and intentionality. It's more than just a design trend; it's a way of life. Welcome to “The Minimalist's Home Guide," where we'll delve deep into the essence of minimalism and how it can pave the path to a more meaningful and intentional life.
At its core, minimalism embodies a set of principles that resonate deeply with Christian values. Minimalism is about stripping away the unnecessary to uncover the essential. Just as we seek to declutter our hearts of sin and distractions to draw closer to God, minimalism encourages us to declutter our physical spaces. By paring down our possessions, we create room for what truly matters.
The minimalist aesthetic, with its clean lines and uncluttered spaces, can mirror the simplicity and purity that our faith encourages. It allows us to appreciate the beauty of God's creation without unnecessary distractions.
It's a philosophy that extends beyond the physical realm into every aspect of life. When applied to the home and design, it results in a serene and functional space marked by negative space, a restrained color palette, and a focus on the purposeful.
But minimalism isn't just about aesthetics. It's a lifestyle choice—a conscious decision to free ourselves from the burdens of excess. It's about discovering the profound joy of living with less, and in turn, living with more purpose.
Essential Items
These 45 items are carefully curated to serve not only functional purposes but also to bring joy and purpose into our everyday existence. In addition to the standard features of a house (appliances, toilets, cabinets, etc.), consider the items listed below to personalize your space with that which truly adds value.
Kitchen:
1. Dinnerware: plates & bowls
2. Cutlery: including quality chef's knife
3. Cups: everyday glasses, mugs, wine glasses
4. Cookware: pots, pans, baking sheets
5: Utensils: spatula, tongs, measuring cups, cutting board, can opener, etc.
6. Food storage canisters
7. Dining set: table, chairs, & linens
8. Towels
9. Soap
10. Trash/recycling/compost bin & bags
11. Coffee maker
Bedroom:
12. Bed frame
13. Comfortable mattress
14. Two bedding sets: pillows & pillowcases, sheets, and comforter
15. Nightstands
16. Clothing storage: wardrobe, dresser, hangers
17. Laundry basket
18. Full length mirror
19. Decorative lighting: floor lamps or sconces
20. Clothing: tops, bottom, outerwear, undergarments, shoes, accessories
Living Room Essentials:
21. Couch & side chairs
22. Area rug: make sure to choose the right size for your space
23. Coffee table
24. TV & media console
25. Plants: including edible herbs
26. Artwork/digital picture frame
27. Bookshelf & books
28: Diffuser & essential oils
Bathroom Basics:
29. Bath towels & mat
30. Soap: hand, body, face wash
31. Shampoo & conditioner
32. Hair & skin care products/tools
33. Toothbrush, toothpaste, & floss
34. Medications & supplements
35. First aid kit & emergency go-bag
Cleaning Supplies:
36. Clothing: laundry detergent & dryer sheets
37. Iron & ironing board/steamer
38. Multipurpose: consider a homemade, natural cleaning solution
39. Floor: vacuum & mop
40. Cleaning tools: rags/sponges, toilet brush, squeegee, etc.
Other:
41. Office desk & chair
42. Charging cables: computer, phone, etc.
43. Storage for documents: medical records, financial information, etc.
44. Household maintenance items: lightbulbs, filters, batteries, etc.
Letting Go
In a world where we're constantly bombarded with advertisements encouraging us to buy more, it's easy to amass possessions we don't truly need. The result? Our homes become repositories of stuff, and our lives become cluttered not only physically but mentally and emotionally as well.
Minimalism, on the other hand, offers a respite from this chaos. A clutter-free home is a tranquil sanctuary where every item serves a purpose and brings joy. It's a place where you can breathe freely, think clearly, and recharge your spirit.
Minimalism has a transformative power. Whether you're a seasoned minimalist or just beginning to dip your toes into this lifestyle, my goal is to inspire and empower you to create a home that truly reflects your values, your passions, and your peace of mind.
Beyond Possessions
As Christian homemakers, we understand the importance of our homes as places of comfort, love, and hospitality. However, our homes can become cluttered with material possessions that do not align with our spiritual journey. Minimalism offers us the grace of simplification, guiding us to practice gratitude. It teaches us that true contentment doesn't come from material abundance but from living in alignment with our values and faith.
Minimalism is not about deprivation; it's about finding divine simplicity in our homes and lives. It's a spiritual journey that encourages us to embrace a clutter-free existence, allowing us to draw closer to God, find contentment in His grace, and live with greater intentionality and purpose. As Christian homemakers, I encourage you to explore the philosophy of minimalism, guided by our faith and the desire to create homes that reflect our values and love of God.
Homemakers University creates home guides, Biblical art, and apparel that inspires homemakers to intentionally manage, style, and steward their spaces. Sadie Jean works to bring her love for God, minimalist design, and homemaking together through her modern designs.
HU proudly supports women who see their homes not just as spaces, but as their ministry.