Minimalism in UI design: Form follows function forever
Blog post from LogRocket
Minimalism, a design philosophy emphasizing simplicity and essentialism, finds beauty in essentials, advocating for clean lines, limited color palettes, and simple shapes to create impactful experiences. Originating as a response to the chaos of abstract expressionism in the 1960s, minimalism sought to engage viewers directly with its straightforward, purified forms, as championed by influential figures like Frank Stella and Robert Mangold. The movement's core principle "less is more," attributed to architect Mies van der Rohe, underscores the focus on functionality over ornamentation, a sentiment echoed in Louis Sullivan's "form follows function" concept. Minimalism's enduring appeal extends beyond art to influence modern web design, where it enhances user experience by reducing cognitive load, prioritizing essential tasks, and creating intuitive, timeless interfaces. Despite the rise of trends like glassmorphism and neubrutalism, minimalism remains a timeless philosophy by avoiding ephemeral features and maintaining focus on purpose and clarity.