Last year we hosted a couple of online workshops about book publishing (both which are still available to watch). Blogger and writer Abi Dare took both workshops – the one on self-publishing and the one on working with a publisher. Abi had a dream of writing her own interiors book, but felt she needed some guidance on how to go about it. Following the workshops, she made a plan and got to work on her book proposal and I’m thrilled to share that her first book – The Soft Minimalist Home has just been published by Ryland Peters and Small.
Abi has been an advocate for minimal interiors for a long time, writing about them on her blog These Four Walls, and of course, her approach in her own home is for an uncluttered, calm environment. But, over the years she noticed there were assumptions being made about minimalist decor –Â that it was bland and uninteresting – so Abi’s aim with the book is to bust some of those myths and prove that living minimally can be just as exciting and reflective of the inhabitants as it’s maximalist counterparts, while also offering a haven that is beneficial for mind, body and soul. 
In the book Abi shares 15 homes, including her own, which she believes highlights the variety and personality that are evident in these minimal spaces. From pared-back Scandi, to rustic cabin vibes, to colourful city chic, the thread running through is the owners ability to curate their homes with restraint whilst also allowing the space to feel personal, warm and authentic. 
Abi gives guidance on some of the most important elements of creating a more minimal interior – colour, layout, lighting, texture, natural elements, and of course, storage and display. These are key to ensuring your minimal home does not end up too stark and cold, and that you design well and chose with care.
Humans have over consumed for far too long, and our homes have become cluttered, overwhelming and unmanageable, but with the aim of living with less in mind, following the advice and inspiration offered in this book will set you on a road to a calmer home that actually lifts your mood rather than hamper it. 
The Soft Minimalist Home by Abi Dare, published by Ryland Peters & Small (£35)
Photography by Benjamin Edwards © Ryland Peters & Small
