9 Simple Tips to Live as a Minimalist in a Big House

Minimalists have a reputation for living in small apartments (like me), tiny houses (400 sq. ft. or less), and even buses or vans.  But you don't have to live in a small space to be a minimalist.

That's because minimalism isn't one-size-fits-all.  It's a mindset and a tool for a simpler way of life, one that helps you remove the things that fill your space, your time, and your budget so you can focus on what adds most value and joy.  And that's determined by you!

If you live in a small space, you don't have room for a lot of stuff.  This limitation is helpful for many who want to live an uncluttered life.

But what if you have a large home?  Is there any way you can still explore minimalism?

Why a minimalist might have a big house

There are several reasons a minimalist might want or need more space.  For example, not only does my daughter have three young sons, but my son-in-law is a clinical laboratory scientist who works nights.  Their bedroom is at the other end of a long hall from the boys' bedrooms, and on the opposite side of the house from the family room.  So when Steve needs to sleep during the day, he can get away to a quiet room.

A job or a family are two reasons you might want a larger home.  Perhaps you want to rent a house along with several roommates, and need space to accommodate everyone.  Or maybe you already own a large home in a neighborhood and town you love.

How to be a minimalist in a large space

Use any or all of these ideas to live like a minimalist right where you are.

1.  Embrace empty space.

If you feel you have to decorate every wall or fill every room and storage area, you may be acquiring things you don't need.  Instead, get comfortable with a bit of bareness.

Start by redefining what "full" means to you.  I know from experience that after years of overflowing closets and drawers I could barely shut, it was an adjustment to realize that "full" is actually much less than capacity – it's an amount that allows for ease and functionality.

If this seems hard or strange, change the way you think about it.

• Instead of viewing a sparsely-furnished room as boring or unwelcoming, think of it as calm and spacious.
• Instead of feeling that your space is incomplete, remind yourself that it's fine to decorate slowly and intentionally.

Look for the beauty of less.

2.  Don't feel pressured.

When a small space is minimal, people may just see it as tidy.  But when a large space is minimal, it's obvious.  Friends and family might have negative reactions to this:

• They might think it's weird.
• They'll question why you don't own something that most people own.
• They'll wonder when you're going to buy something to fill the emptiness.

Over time, the people who love you will adjust.  But at first, you'll have to do your best not to let the comments bother you.  Don't let pressure from loved ones make you change your lifestyle.

3.  Limit décor.

You might decide to limit décor to one item on each wall or one item on each table or other flat surface.  Or you could use meaningful but useful things to adorn your space, rather than owning anything that's purely decorative.  For example, hang the guitar you love to play, toss a pillow that cushions your lower back, or display a vase that can hold the flowers you purchase to freshen and scent the room.

4.  Limit furniture.

Think about the furniture you actually use on a daily or almost daily basis.  Don't keep a desk just because you have an empty wall.  Don't keep a china cabinet just because it was your mom's.  In fact, if you want to stay minimalist, choose less storage rather than more.  This will help you keep limits on all the bits and pieces that wind up in drawers and cupboards.

5.  Simplify window treatments.

You may not be able to keep windows bare, but simple panel curtains or natural fiber blinds reduce fussiness and look good.

6.  Only keep what you need.

Even if you've decluttered, be aware that clutter can re-accumulate if you aren't paying attention.  And the bigger your house, the more places you have to stash stuff and forget all about it.  It's too easy to hang onto extras because you have that back closet or spare room.

7.  Evaluate the influencers you follow.

If you like going online for home inspiration, make sure the bloggers, social media accounts, and Pinterest boards you follow support minimalism.  Beware stopping at HomeGoods or Hobby Lobby "just to browse."

It's easy to get caught up in the latest décor trends, which can tempt you to buy stuff you don't need.  Unfollow anyone who makes you feel like you don't have enough.

8.  Limit your collections.

I understand that building a collection can be fun, but I suggest you limit yourself to one.  Choose the collection that most reflects your background, personality, and/or interests, and focus on that.  Also consider limiting the number of pieces in your collection.  You could

• keep only what fits in one dedicated display area
• keep a certain number of pieces, and choose your favorites
• keep just the pieces that have the most personal associations
• keep only pieces that are actually valuable

You must change your shopping and collecting habits or your possessions will continue to grow. 

9.  Keep it together.

If you're living with your family in a large home, don't use this as an excuse to multiply devices and divide yourselves from each other.  Limit the areas where you watch TV, play video games, eat, study, and more.  Too many families in large houses never share anything.  Don't let yours keep you apart.

The bottom line

Living as a minimalist in a large house is about being thoughtful and selective.  You can practice those things whether you live in a van or a 2,000 sq. ft. home.  It's all about mindset.

We need the shelter that our homes provide. But think about how you feel when you walk into your home.  What happens to your energy and your mood?  Does your home make you feel as good as it could?  Does it support the quality of life you need and want?  If not, why not?  What should you do to make a change?

These are important questions, because the answers affect you and your family every day.

With my book Comfortable Minimalism,* you can start making your home more beautiful and welcoming right now, even if you have no money to spend.  Experience more open space, more natural light, and easier home care.  Choose and display the items that bring you most joy.  Make small changes for a big impact.

From slight tweaks to a completely new look, Comfortable Minimalism is packed with ideas and projects that will make your home the stylish haven of your dreams.

* This blog is reader-supported.  If you buy through my links, I may earn a small commission.

Don't forget to pre-order your Kindle edition of my newest book, Minimalist Hygge, while it's on sale for $3.99 (that's 20% off).  It will be delivered to your e-device of choice on Sunday, September 1st, which is when the beautiful paperback and hardcover editions go on sale.