The new minimalism is not about bare, white-walled rooms, starkly devoid of signs of human life; nor is it about massive expense and austere living. No longer content with the relentless search for hard-edged purity, many of today's designers have adapted the minimalist vocabulary and imbued it with innovative—yet practical—twists. Presenting the most exciting interiors from around the world, Practically Minimal offers visual inspiration and ideas to anyone attracted to the minimalist ethos. Here are flexible, livable, enjoyable, and functional spaces that artfully combine the beauty and spirituality of minimalism with an exuberant love of exotic woods and metals, varied colors, playful and mysterious forms, and the requisite respect for natural light, clean lines, and easy living. Drawing on interiors created by a wide range of architects, designers, and residents themselves, the book focuses on five themes: living and relaxing, cooking and dining, sleeping, bathing, and outdoor living. A special Elements section is a rich visual resource of details of the new minimalism, from stairs and storage to materials and textures to lighting and planting. Here is a style of living that really does marry form and function: it is comfortable, beautiful, affordable, and practical. 250 color illustrations.