Less is more is a saying which is used in a variety of contexts. The concept behind it is that there is a sweet spot in which you can achieve the most from your sales without costing too much. In marketing, it’s used to motivate individuals to buy something less costly than what they might otherwise spend on the item being sold.
Less is more, in the architectural context, refers to using minimalist design. This was the motto of thearte et al, an influential French architectural fashion designer whose works are still popular today. The phrase was originally meant to mean, “less is more.” However, using it this way gave the phrase a much greater meaning than simply “less is more.”
Less is More can be applied in many different ways, as shown above. In one instance, a company wanted to create a capsule wardrobe for their female employees. They hired a team of female fashion designers, put out a concept for each of them, and set up a production line to make the capsules. Each of the women contributed something that was unique to the overall look of the final product. The result was an original, elegant look that no one could replicate at their factory.
Another example is a restaurant where the decor was very basic, just two tables, one with a long table and the other short. The items needed to be basic: a table cloth, napkins, a place mat, and utensils. However, the restaurant wanted to use the phrase “less is more” in an environment that was colorful and had a very cheerful atmosphere. Using every last item, they created an environment where customers were happy and the employees were appreciated. The end result?
Roch Valley, a city in the Netherlands, has used the phrase “less is more” quite a bit recently. They created a landscaping design that was inspired by the nearby Rock River. Instead of using every stone, they instead focused on the rocks and the flowing water. This worked well because the river offers a lot of options for textures and shapes, some of which are simply impossible to reproduce when working with concrete or pavement. By using the rock as a focal point, instead of brick, they created a simple, but beautiful design that was pleasing to the eye.
So, next time you’re considering redesigning your office or workspace, consider using “less is more.” The phrase has a lot of wisdom to it. Not only does it help to create a simple office, but it also keeps things simple enough that they are easy to maintain. The simplicity of a good design can create a happy environment that lasts, and a happy environment that makes productivity soar!