Take a walk through older neighborhoods like Abelenkpe, Asokwa, Ikeja GRA and Old Ikoyi, you’ll notice something interesting. The houses aren’t just buildings, they’re statements. Each home has its own character, from grand verandahs supported by sturdy pillars to elevated dining rooms and wide, airy windows.
Back in the day, Nigerian homes were full of character—colorful rugs, cozy chairs, family photos on the walls, aquariums etc. that made the space feel alive. There was always something that caught your eye and made you feel at home. Homes felt warm and welcoming, with big living rooms, big compounds, and airy verandahs where families could comfortably sit, chat, and relax.
With re-urbanization and the high demands of housing, houses are now less-interesting, and property developers are here to milk the demands with bare minimum. – The interiors are even worse off, every house looks more or less like the same.
This article is all about how modern minimalist homes often miss the mark when it comes to warmth and personality. We’ll also look at how we can mix that clean, simple style with the lively, traditional touch that makes a house truly feel like home.
ALSO READ: Minimalism- is it right for you?
What’s wrong with Modern Minimalism?
I’ll ask, where is the comfort ? Minimalism became a popular lingua in mainstream home design which is all about keeping things clutter-free and simple. In our opinion, we may have over-extend its reach by now making our homes more robotic right from the architecture style to uninspiring furniture pieces or way too many empty spaces.
We now Prioritise Maximizing Space Over Practicality
Buildings used to be unique landmarks, each with its own special design that made it stand out. Traditional architecture featured arches, columns, and decorative details, giving homes a grand and elegant look. Natural materials like wood, stone, and clay made spaces feel warm and connected to culture. Houses were built with open courtyards and plenty of space, making them comfortable and welcoming.
Today, modern buildings focus on simple designs, clean lines, and compact spaces, using every inch without leaving much room to breathe. While they look neat and stylish, many feel more like showpieces than real homes. The few that still have open spaces and unique designs are now considered “luxury.” Though modern architecture is efficient, it often lacks the charm and character that made older buildings truly special.
ALSO READ: Minimalist Living: Design Your New Space With Less
Lacking Personality
Modern minimalist homes often feel too plain. Unlike traditional Nigerian homes that are full of character—colorful fabrics, bold patterns, wooden furniture, and personal touches—minimalist spaces stick to neutral colors like white, gray, and beige. The furniture is sleek and simple, with little decoration to break the monotony. While this clean and organized look works for some, it can feel a bit too bare and impersonal. Instead of giving off a warm, welcoming vibe, it sometimes feels like you’re walking into a showroom rather than a lived-in space.
What are Elements That Should be Brought Back ?
It’s possible to have the best of both worlds—a modern, minimalist home that still feels warm and inviting. Here are some practical ways to achieve that balance:
- Add Colors and Pattern; Minimalism doesn’t have to mean all-white everything. Bold colors and traditional patterns can be incorporated tastefully through textiles, wall art, or even accent walls.
- Reintroduce Courtyards and Verandahs; If you’re building or renovating, consider adding a small courtyard or a raised verandah. These spaces bring back the communal feel of traditional homes and provide a breath of fresh air.
- Maximize Ventilation and Light; Design your home with large, strategically placed windows to allow cross-ventilation. Overhangs or shaded windows can diffuse light without heating up the space.
- Sliding Window-Style Doors: Not only did they allow more light and air, but they also made the rooms feel more connected to the outside world.
- Stone Floors: Durable and visually appealing, they brought a touch of elegance without being overly flashy.
If you’re planning to renovate or build your own property, augmenting your structure with inspiration from old traditional buildings should be a conversation you need to have with your architect. Let’s bring back souls and intentions to building
