Bauhaus Style – functionality and aesthetics
Bauhaus stands as one of the most influential movements within design and architecture, greatly impacting modern interiors. Bauhaus functioned both as a school and an artistic movement, emerging in Germany during the 1920s. It was established by architect Walter Gropius and served as a convergence point for various art disciplines such as architecture, design, visual arts, and crafts, all working together towards integrating art into everyday life.
The central philosophy of Bauhaus was to create functional and aesthetic objects accessible to the masses. The school aimed to cultivate a new generation of artists and craftsmen who would transform society through the design of modern and innovative items. Bauhaus advocated for simplicity, geometry, ergonomic design, and the use of modern materials. In architecture, it sought to produce functional buildings where form and function were in harmony.
Bauhaus style – what sets it apart?
Interiors styled in the Bauhaus tradition are marked by clean lines, geometric forms, and a minimalist aesthetic. Simple, flat surfaces prevail, with an emphasis on functionality and ergonomics. The colour palette in Bauhaus style is usually subdued, focusing on shades of grey, black, white, and brown. Bold colour accents can also be used to enliven the space.
A key aspect of Bauhaus-style arrangements is the use of high-quality, durable, and functional materials. Metal, glass, concrete, wood, and leather are frequently employed to highlight the interior's modern character. Furniture in the Bauhaus style is typically straightforward, devoid of unnecessary embellishments, relying on geometry and ergonomic solutions. Bauhaus promotes openness and space, hence features such as large windows, open floor plans, and a minimal number of partition walls are often present in these types of layouts.
Bauhaus style in the living room
Designing a living room in the Bauhaus style means merging modernity with a minimalist aesthetic. This style values simplicity and purity of form. It is best, therefore, to choose furniture with simple lines and geometric shapes. This applies to both the lounge set and elements such as coffee tables or TV stands. A chaise longue will also fit perfectly. It's wise to avoid unnecessary decorations, focusing instead on minimalist design. Bauhaus was pioneering in designing furniture that was not only aesthetic but also functional. When selecting pieces for your room, ensure they are comfortable and practical.
As mentioned earlier, Bauhaus favours subdued colours. Opting for this type of colour palette will surely create a cohesive and harmonious space. A touch of contrast can be added by using accents in bold colours, such as red, blue, or yellow. The Bauhaus style also emphasizes minimalism and order. The living room should be well-organized, with a minimal number of decorations. It's best to decide on one, distinct accent that will add character to the space. This could be abstract canvas prints or minimalist sculptures.
Bauhaus style - bedroom
When aiming to design a bedroom in the Bauhaus style, it's wise to only use subdued colours that introduce an atmosphere of peace and serenity into the interior. For this room, one might forego more intense accents. The central element of the bedroom arrangement should be the bed. A model with simple shapes and devoid of decorations would be ideal. You might opt for a platform bed with a low headboard or one upholstered in a solid colour. In choosing other furniture for the bedroom, such as a dresser or wardrobe, it's advisable to stick to simple, geometric shapes and muted colours. Bauhaus places a significant emphasis on lighting as a decorative element. Designer lamps that serve both practical and aesthetic functions will look excellent. Classic hanging models utilising geometric patterns, modern ones intended for placement on a bedside table, as well as ceiling-mounted lights providing focused illumination that can be directed at a specific area, will all pass muster. The whole can be highlighted with minimalist decorations.
Did you know...
The Bauhaus style is known not just for its functionality and minimalist design, but also for its innovative approach to the use of colours. One of the most recognisable colours used in the Bauhaus style is "Bauhaus Yellow". This intense, vibrant shade of yellow was often used, for example, in accessories. It's an excellent way to enliven the space and introduce a dynamic contrast. This colour can be incorporated, for instance, through wall decorations. An example might be the painting Coincidence of Textures.
Bauhaus style - bathroom
Designing a bathroom in the Bauhaus style will help create a modern and minimalist interior that is both functional and aesthetic. When arranging such a space, focus primarily on simplicity and minimalism. Ceramic or stone tiles in their natural shades will look excellent. To emphasise the character of the interior, it's worth equipping the arrangement with black accents, such as bathroom fixtures, or various types of handles and accessories. It's also advisable for the Bauhaus style bathroom to include elements made of stainless steel, chrome, or glass.
A very important element of the Bauhaus bathroom is lighting. Modern hanging or spotlights will give the bathroom a unique character. A mirror with an unusual shape, serving as the main element of the arrangement, is also a must-have.
Bauhaus style - kitchen
The Bauhaus style also works well in the kitchen. To achieve the desired effect, it's essential to ensure the kitchen is as functional as possible. Thus, the layout should be designed in a way that allows for comfortable and efficient use of space. It's crucial to focus on storage options and the ergonomic arrangement of kitchen appliances. When choosing kitchen units, it's best to opt for models with a minimalist design, featuring simple lines and flat surfaces. Their colour should be as neutral as possible, allowing for a cohesive and harmonious space. A Bauhaus kitchen must include a table made from high-quality materials with curved steel legs and the characteristic Bauhaus-style cantilever chairs. Above the table, there should be a designer lamp to create the right atmosphere for the room.
Bauhaus style - accessories and furniture
The Bauhaus style is characterized by a minimalist approach to decorations and furniture, focusing on functionality and simplicity of forms. However, there are a few elements distinctly associated with it.
- Wassily chairs – an iconic element of the Bauhaus style. Designed by Marcel Breuer, they feature a metal frame in the shape of an "X" and a leather seat and backrest.
- Tables with steel frames – Bauhaus used steel frames as structural elements of furniture. Coffee tables, dining tables, or desks often had steel frames with simple, geometric shapes that provided stability and durability.
- Posters and graphics – extremely popular decorative elements of the Bauhaus style. They often featured abstract patterns and geometric compositions, emphasizing a minimalist and modern approach to art.
- Ceramics and glass – interiors in the Bauhaus style may include decorative ceramic dishes, glass vases, or glasses with a modern and minimalist design.
Bauhaus style interiors - who are they for?
The Bauhaus style in interiors is perfect for those who value modernity, minimalism, and functionality. It's an ideal solution for those who prefer simplicity of form and clean lines. This style will surely appeal to people with a high artistic sensitivity and those interested in design. It will also attract innovative and forward-thinking individuals who are looking for unique solutions and inspiration. Bauhaus arrangement is especially recommended for minimalists and lovers of orderly spaces. Thanks to its functionality, it works perfectly in modern apartments, apartments, or lofts. Moreover, the Bauhaus style is suitable for people who want to create a harmonious and cohesive space, where every element has its place and purpose. It's also the perfect choice for those who like to experiment with contrasts, combining modernity with classic elements.
The Bauhaus style is primarily about minimalist forms, simplicity of construction, and the use of modern materials, such as steel, leather, glass, or ceramics. All this aims to create functional, aesthetic, and harmonious interiors.