PARED DOWN

While blooms are wonderful, September lends itself to starting your minimalism journey instead

- STEFANIE TITUS

QUALITY OVER QUANTITY

This old adage could be considered the cornerstone of minimal design. It's the best excuse to really invest in pieces you love. Apart from the aesthetic value of a more minimalist space, you tap into the power of saving by breaking the eternal loop of seasonal rebuying. You will spend less on a few more expensive pieces than buying poorly manufactured trend pieces. Poorly manufactured goods not only cement your rebuying fate, as they're usually manufactured with cheaper materials whose quality control standards are lower and emissions higher, which can be harmful over time.

Tip: When you come across a collection or piece that speaks to you but doesn't quite fit your space or needs, find out if the seller offers a custom service. You may spend a little more, but it's an investment you won't regret.

MULTIFUNCTIONALITY IS QUEEN

Multifunctional furniture has always been nifty, but with lock-down, flexible work schedules and more at-home entertainment than ever, it has shifted from being a fanciful want to a functional need. Don't be limited by the idea of storage bed bases and sleeper couches-there are hundreds of fun designs, from wall-mounted cubbyhole coat hooks to camouflaged appliances and dining tables with hinged leaves that turn your day time desk into the base of a dinner party tablescape in the nick of time.

Tip: Think outside the box. The intended use for many designs is hardly ever where the potential ends. Make your home work harder and smarter for you - get creative!

SIMPLICITY