There is a lot to be said for the recent trend in minimalism. Minimalist spaces promote simplicity and ease while often carrying a pleasing aesthetic. Certainly, minimalist desk setups and workspaces facilitate workflow and generally simplify tasks. But how can you turn your cluttered catastrophe of a desk into a pristine minimalist workspace paradise? In this article, we’ll show you how.

It’s All About Nothing

When you look at a minimalist desk setup it’s more about what you don’t see than what you actually see. In other words, attractive and simple minimalist spaces are devoid of unused objects.

So, your first step in creating your minimalist setup is to take inventory of everything on your desk. Are there items that you never or only occasionally use? These things need to go. Put them somewhere else in the room, store them away, even give them to charity or just throw them out. These items are the most predominate inhibitor of minimalism in your workspace.

If you’re having trouble getting started with this one, consider the tools on your desk. See that old stapler? How about that unruly hole puncher? Don’t forget about that electric pencil sharpener that hasn’t worked for years. Do you really need all of these devices? If your workflow needs a certain type of tool, that is fine. Get rid of all the others and consider picking up a new and fresh looking version of what is important. If you really need a stapler, get something like this clean looking stapler from JAM . Your tools should contribute to the aesthetic of your setup, not clash with it.

Get Organized

Now that you’ve gotten rid of everything you don’t need, you’re left with what’s important, what’s necessary. But even these things, if strewn all about, can break the careful balance of minimalism that you seek to create. If your desk has drawers, pick up an organizer like this desk drawer organizer from Rolodex . On top of your desk, try implementing a desk top organizer. This one by Jerry & Maggie is very versatile and certainly fits in well with a minimalist aesthetic. Papers in particular have a tendency to get out of hand. Try going digital if your workflow will allow it. Both your minimal setup and the Earth will thank you.

Pick A Style

While it is important to keep minimal setups simple and uncluttered, it is helpful to make sure that everything that is in the setup contributes to a particular style. This means deciding on a particular style and keeping that style in mind when building the setup. Some possibilities in this respect are replacing boring pencil holders with mason jars to fit a country aesthetic. Maybe say goodbye to the five dollar plastic desk lamp from your childhood and pick up a steampunk lamp like this one from 12Vmonster to develop a more industrial style. Of course, minimalist spaces are always about simplicity, so remember not to overdo it here. Choose carefully and keep it simple.

A Strong Foundation

Following all of the above tips will not get you the minimalist setup your desire unless the desk they are based around is just right. With minimalist workspaces, the desk should exemplify simplicity. While you may have a soft spot for that antique victorian desk with accompanying book case, it probably does not belong in your minimalist setup. Instead, opt for a simple yet elegant desk without extra frills. Too many drawers or cabinets is also something to avoid. They become places to hide the clutter. Try limiting drawer quantity to one or two. Check out this minimal desk by Langria . It is sleek, simple, and can find a home in any minimalist setup.

So, good luck in creating your very own minimalist setups and workspaces! If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below and we will respond ASAP.