Lifestyle

This is the Secret Behind Minimalism

Photography: MUJI Philippines Facebook page (Main Photos)

The minimalist lifestyle has been gaining quite a following, especially in paring down decorations at home and living with only the essentials. Because of this, retail stores have been catering to this movement by creating products with a minimalist and clean aesthetic. 

One such store is MUJI, a Japanese brand known for their minimalist items, which echo a distinct design style meant to counter the lifestyle of excess that seems to be the norm nowadays. On October 22, MUJI art director and Advisory Board member Kenya Hara, a world-renowned graphic designer and curator, gave a talk at the De La Salle University Manila on the basic philosophy behind the design of the products offered by the brand.


Minimalism should be like a creative receptacle

During the talk, entitled “Emptiness,” Kenya Hara explored how the idea of emptiness is rooted in Japanese culture, and how it is then translated into the visual aspect of MUJI products.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

He began by talking briefly about traditional Japanese Shinto temples, which feature empty spaces that are meant to serve as dwelling places for the deities. Though that space is provided, there is no certainty that it will be filled, which allows people to explore the possibilities with their imagination and creativity. “Emptiness is the possibility of being filled,” Hara shared. “People put imagination in the empty space.”

He further shared that in Japanese design, the empty space is given more importance than the drawn space: “This empty space is a creative receptacle of images.


The secret is simplicity and emptiness

Though many associate the word “simple” to describe the brand's products, Hara prefers to use the term “empty”—a point he also explores in the talk.

In contrast to the Western notion of simplicity which pursues functionality and rationality in design, in Japan, the aim is to create pieces that are free from any particular styles, so that they are flexible and can be used in a variety of contexts.

CONTINUE READING BELOW
watch now

MUJI products are not just minimalistic in appearance; they can be applied in different environments, which means that customers are invited to exercise their creativity in deciding what to use those products for.


In a world where it seems excess and wastage are the norm, living a tidy, minimalist lifestyle undoubtedly seems very appealing. Living with less, and if not immediately possible—living with products of minimal but functional design—can be the solution. 

More on Realliving.com.ph

Shares

Read more stories about

Latest Stories

Makati's New Terminal Looks Like an Airport

Check out the routes available at the One Ayala terminal.

Iya Villania Finally Explained Why She Keeps Saying That The New Casa Arellano Is A Tiny Home

Iya puts it firmly, "It really is [a tiny home]. You'll understand when you see it."

A Growing Family Finds a Haven in this Contemporary Rustic QC Home

Interior designer Angelica Fua made sure to create a space that is both intentional and functional.

Turning Row Houses into Relaxing Tropical Escapes

Located in Laiya, these homes prove that life is better by the beach.

This Private Loft Cabin in Cavite Is a Staycation Dream

It features two cabins and a spacious outdoor area with a pool!

This Tiny House With Ocean Views Is Worth The Trip To Eastern Samar

A swimming pool stands ready near the house!

This Contemporary Bungalow Is Made for Wellness in Retirement

Sunset years should be spent in peace and leisure.
Load More Stories