October is in full swing, so if you haven’t already started, it’s the perfect time to bring out the Halloween decor.
While this time of year boasts photos of homes filled head to toe with festive knick-knacks and decorations, those who lean more toward a minimalist mindset take a different approach to curating their space for the season.
If you love the minimalist feel of your home but still want to add seasonal touches, we spoke to a few minimalist design experts and gathered their tips to get you started.
Meet the Expert
- Bree Steele is an interior designer with RJ Living.
- Anna Tatsioni is the lead interior designer and architect at Decorilla.
Use Neutral Backdrops So Halloween Colors Pop
Halloween decor has a distinct color palette—usually orange and black—contrasting with a traditional minimalist feel. However, Bree Steele, an interior designer with RJ Living, suggests using a neutral color scheme to your advantage by keeping your backdrop mostly neutral and adding small doses of Halloween colors.
“When you add in the subtle accent colors of black and orange, there will be a calmer and more modern Halloween aesthetic,” Steele says.
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Go Monochromatic
If orange and black aren’t for you, don’t fret. Neutrals can still create a beautiful, mystical ambiance—the key is choosing which ones to use together. Anna Tatsioni, the lead interior designer and architect from Decorilla, says that in her most recent Halloween projects, a focus on black and white with a touch of metallic gave sophistication to the space.
“I love avoiding traditional orange to maintain a sleek and modern look,” Tatsioni says.
Keep It Simple
Pinterest boards may overflow with kitschy Halloween decor, but for minimalists, this style of decorating won’t flow. Steele says one of the biggest mistakes she notices is people going overboard with the decorations when only a few distinct touches are necessary.
“To keep things tasteful, choose a few statement pieces for the room’s corners, reducing the clutter and adding a seasonal touch that isn’t too overwhelming,” Steele recommends.
She says a well-placed wreath or a nice white pumpkin can do wonders to create a timeless look.
Use Soft Lighting
Lighting may not be your first thought when it comes to decorating, but for Halloween-inspired settings, it can change everything. Dimming the lights will add a naturally “haunted” mystique, and Steele suggests that fairy lights or glass lanterns can help make things mysterious without going overboard.
While you won’t want to add too many to your cart, a few candles around the room can add the right amount of Halloween flair—black taper candles, in particular, fit the season well.
Pick With Purpose
Minimalism focuses on choosing decor intentionally—there is no need to buy random pieces of decor that will clutter your shelves simply because they’re on a theme. Tatsioni says that choosing decor that has a purpose is key. For example, she says a modern art print with a subtle Halloween theme can set the tone for an entire space.
“I’m also a big fan of using shadows as decor; a well-placed light behind a stark, branch-like sculpture can add mystery without clutter,” Tatsioni explains.
Embrace Negative Space
Minimalists decorating for Halloween shouldn’t solely focus on the items themselves—negative space can play a crucial role in highlighting the select items they’ve chosen to display. Negative space, or the area surrounding an item or piece of furniture, can make all the difference in bringing an eerie feel without adding too many items to a specific location.
Tatsioni agrees that negative space is ideal for minimalist Halloween inspiration. She explains the impact of a single oversized spider web or solitary witch’s hat can make compared to cluttered decorations. You’ll want to create a visual that’s intriguing and not too busy on the eyes or else it’ll be hard to focus on the overall look.