Bauhaus interior design is a timeless and influential style that has left a lasting mark on the world of modern design. Originating from the early 20th century, Bauhaus embodies the principles of functionality, simplicity, and geometric abstraction. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the history, key characteristics, and practical tips for incorporating Bauhaus interior design into your home.

History of Bauhaus Interior Design

Bauhaus interior design traces its roots to the Bauhaus school, established in 1919 in Weimar, Germany. Walter Gropius envisioned a revolutionary design school that would merge art, crafts, and technology to create a new, unified approach to design and architecture. The Bauhaus school promoted the concept of "Gesamtkunstwerk" or "total work of art," aiming to synthesize various art forms into a cohesive whole.

Evolution and Influence

Despite its closure in 1933, the principles of Bauhaus interior style spread globally. Prominent figures like Marcel Breuer, known for his iconic Bauhaus chair designs, and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, who designed the Barcelona Pavilion, played significant roles in disseminating Bauhaus ideas. The movement evolved into the International Style, profoundly influencing modernism in the mid-20th century.

Key Characteristics of Bauhaus Interior Design

Bauhaus interior design furniture in living room

Let’s explore the fundamental elements that define Bauhaus interior design, from its emphasis on functionality to its use of geometric shapes and industrial materials.

Form Follows Function

A cornerstone of Bauhaus interior design is the principle that the form of a building or object should primarily relate to its intended function. This ethos results in designs that are practical, straightforward, and devoid of unnecessary ornamentation.

Geometric Shapes and Clean Lines

Bauhaus interior design often features simple geometric shapes such as circles, squares, and triangles. These forms are used in both architectural elements and decor, creating a cohesive and visually appealing environment.

Use of Industrial Materials

Industrial design Bauhaus principles emphasize the use of modern materials like steel, glass, and concrete. These materials are celebrated for their functional properties and are often left in their natural, unvarnished state to highlight their inherent qualities.

Neutral colour Palettes with Bold Accents

Bauhaus interiors typically utilize neutral colour palettes—white, gray, and black—accented with bold primary colours such as red, blue, and yellow. This approach creates a striking visual contrast and emphasizes simplicity and functionality.

Incorporating Bauhaus Interior Design into Your Home

Discover practical tips and ideas for seamlessly integrating Bauhaus interior design principles into your home, creating a space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Choose Functional Furniture

Opt for Bauhaus furniture that embodies the form follows function principle. Iconic pieces like the Wassily chair by Marcel Breuer or the Barcelona chair by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe are excellent examples of functional yet stylish Bauhaus chairs that can serve as focal points in your living space.

Embrace Geometric Forms

Dining room with circular light fixture and wood dining furniture

Integrate geometric shapes into your design through furniture, decor, and architectural elements. Consider a Bauhaus sofa with clean lines and a minimalist design, or add Bauhaus artwork featuring geometric patterns and bold colours to your walls.

Utilize Industrial Materials

Incorporate materials such as steel, glass, and concrete into your home decor. A sleek metal coffee table, a glass dining table, or exposed concrete walls can all enhance the Bauhaus interior style.

Opt for a Minimalist colour Palette

Stick to a neutral colour palette with occasional bold accents. Use whites, grays, and blacks as your base colours, and introduce primary colours through accessories like cushions, rugs, or art pieces to create visual interest without overwhelming the space.

Practical Tips for a Bauhaus Living Room

Enhance your living space with these practical design tips for incorporating Bauhaus design elements, ensuring a harmonious blend of functionality and modern aesthetics.

Select Streamlined Furniture

Bauhaus Interior Design - Grey plaid and brass chairs and coffee table

Choose a Bauhaus sofa with clean lines and minimal embellishments. Pair it with a functional coffee table and a few well-chosen Bauhaus chairs to create a cohesive seating area.

Add Geometric Patterns

Incorporate geometric patterns through textiles, such as cushions, rugs, or curtains. This adds depth and visual interest while staying true to the Bauhaus design interior principles.

Incorporate Functional Lighting

Use functional lighting fixtures that also serve as design elements. Consider industrial-style pendant lights, minimalist floor lamps, or wall-mounted sconces that provide adequate lighting while enhancing the room's aesthetic.

Final Words on Bauhaus Interior Design

Black bauhaus chairs with white furniture and walls

Bauhaus interior design offers a unique blend of functionality, simplicity, and geometric beauty that remains relevant today. By understanding its key principles and incorporating its elements into your home, you can create a space that is both stylish and practical.

Whether through Bauhaus furniture, industrial materials, or geometric patterns, the timeless appeal of Bauhaus interior style will transform your living space into a modern masterpiece.

For personalized advice or expert assistance in incorporating Bauhaus design into your home, contact Tailored Interior. Our award-winning Edmonton interior designers are ready to help you create the perfect Bauhaus-inspired space.

What Is Bauhaus Interior Design?