Inside a Munich-based designer’s 590 sq. ft. sleek, warm minimalist apartment
When Germany-based Max Russo found this home four years ago, he knew he had hit the jackpot. As a lover of natural light, the expansive windows with stunning vistas (which are rare to come by in Munich) make the apartment a veritable oasis for him.
Photo: @maxrusso.design/Instagram
Photo: @maxrusso.design/Instagram
For the colour scheme, he focused on natural colours like beige, sand, grey and black, as well as green as an accent colour. The plants, cushions and throws add colour and create a cohesive feeling that Danish people call "hygge".
Photo: @maxrusso.design/Instagram
In his minimalist style, Russo stresses texture above everything because every carefully selected piece of furniture becomes an essential part of a space or room. He avoids shiny or smooth leather surfaces. Whether it's flower pots, coffee tables and desks, the object should be calm by virtue of its texture or shape.
Photo: @maxrusso.design/Instagram
An important piece from Russo's furniture collection is the "Plinth" coffee table by the Danish company Menu – one of his favourite furniture brands. Other favourite items include the Vitra Aluminum Chair EA108 and a Louis Poulsen Mini Desk Lamp. The Plinth coffee table is a modern minimalist design that seamlessly blends into any living room. The Vitra Aluminum Chair is considered an icon of modernism, with its curved aluminium frame and adjustable height. The Louis Poulsen Mini Desk Lamp is a classic mid-century design with an adjustable light head and arm, giving it a unique and functional style.
Photo: @maxrusso.design/Instagram
Russo was once a staunch minimalist but gradually realised it could feel sterile and uninviting. As a result, he moved towards "warm minimalism," a style that strikes a balance between simplicity and comfort. His current preferred interior design style combines mid-century modern with minimalism's simplicity and practicality. Combined, the two design styles create a beautiful, soothing look.