The Bauhaus style is not simply a decor trend. It's a way of understanding design based on the useful, the logical, and the beautiful. It originated in Germany back in the 1920s, but its essence has stood the test of time with surprising strength. Today, it remains a staple in homes, offices, and commercial spaces that seek a balance between aesthetics and functionality.
Perhaps it's this combination of order and practicality that keeps it so relevant. Nothing is superfluous, nothing is imposed. Everything is designed to be there for a reason.
Fundamental principles of the Bauhaus style
This approach has a very clear maxim: form must follow function. What does that mean? There's no room for empty embellishments or elements that merely take up space. Every detail responds to a specific need.
In a Bauhaus-style interior, spaces are designed with simple lines, defined volumes, and a layout that prioritizes practicality. The spaces tend to be connected, with fewer walls and more fluidity. Clarity is sought, both visually and functionally. Everything flows naturally.
And there's another key aspect: mass production. At the time, this made good design accessible without sacrificing quality or aesthetics. A very powerful idea, even today.
Characteristic materials and finishes
The most representative materials of the Bauhaus style make no attempt to disguise their true nature. Tubular steel, glass, concrete… all provide solidity and a clean aesthetic. Elements such as plywood are added, balancing the design with a touch of warmth without losing the structural logic.
Whether it's wall coverings, flooring, or textiles, the finishes are simple. Functionality is valued over decoration. No unnecessary shine or treatments that are merely "for show."
The result is honest interiors that convey order without becoming cold.
Color palette in the Bauhaus style
Color, in this style, isn't used haphazardly. It has a purpose within the overall picture. It starts with neutral tones—white, gray, black—and, on that foundation, small touches of primary colors—red, blue, yellow—are introduced.
These accents aren't everywhere. They appear in specific places: a lamp, a chair, a graphic work. Just enough to break the monotony and direct the eye, without overwhelming it.
This type of palette remains a clear reference in projects seeking a measured and distinctive aesthetic.
Iconic Bauhaus-style furniture
Several pieces created within this movement have become true icons. Not only for their appearance, but also for how they effectively solve needs:
- Wassily armchair, by Marcel Breuer: steel and leather structure, light to the eye but very solid.
- Cesca Chair, also by Breuer: it combines tubular steel with a mesh seat, resulting in a comfortable and versatile piece.
- Wagenfeld Lamp, by Wilhelm Wagenfeld: pure functional simplicity, without losing beauty.
- Modular furniture, such as shelves or tables, which can be adapted to different uses or spaces.
This type of furniture isn't meant to impress, but to live with you. Designed to last, to serve, and to blend in naturally.
Space distribution and open plan
One of the most recognizable contributions of the Bauhaus style is its commitment to the open floor plan. The idea is simple: fewer walls, more connection between areas.
This way of arranging the space allows for more natural light, better ventilation, and an overall feeling of spaciousness. This approach is a perfect fit for modern homes where the kitchen, dining room, and living room are ideally integrated.
It's not just about aesthetics: it's about well-thought-out functionality.
Lighting and textiles in the Bauhaus style
Light is a key element. Nothing is left to chance. Lamps with clean geometric shapes and materials such as opal glass are used, providing soft, even illumination.
Lighting is designed in layers: a general light that fills the space, and other, more specific lighting for reading or work areas.
As for the textiles, simple patterns predominate. Lines, squares, or repeated shapes, clearly inspired by the works of Anni Albers. Everything is integrated into the visual language of the space, without distractions or excesses.
Contemporary applications of the Bauhaus style
The Bauhaus style is not a thing of the past. It continues to be applied in contemporary projects, both residential and commercial. For example:
- Homes with a minimalist aesthetic, where white, glass, and steel predominate.
- Open offices that encourage interaction between people and avoid unnecessary physical barriers.
- Hotels that combine understated elegance with functional solutions.
- Integrated kitchens with modular furniture and clean, easy-to-maintain surfaces.
Its versatility allows it to be adapted to different contexts without betraying its essence.
Common mistakes when applying the Bauhaus style
It is easy to fall into certain errors if the approach is not well understood:
- Using too many primary colors: they should be details, not the basis of the whole.
- Don't confuse this style with Scandinavian design: they share a visual cleanliness, yes, but Bauhaus has a more industrial language.
- Adding decorative elements that have no real function: anything without a practical purpose breaks the coherence.
The key is to maintain a serene balance between functionality and aesthetics. Don't force it.
Bauhaus style in luxury interiors
Although it was born with a more accessible spirit, the Bauhaus style is a perfect fit for high-end projects. Why? Because its focus on durable materials, attention to detail, and understated elegance make it an ideal choice for those who value understated, timeless design.
A living room with iconic pieces, a well-designed kitchen, and balanced lighting can convey sophistication without being ostentatious.
And in the field of luxury interior design, that's highly valued: spaces that don't seek to attract attention, but that speak of quality.
EMR Grup, your luxury construction company in Mallorca
At EMR Grup, we draw inspiration from trends like the Bauhaus style to create homes with their own unique identity. Projects where design, functionality, and high-end finishes coexist naturally.
As construction company in Mallorca, we know that every detail matters. That's why we work with a clear focus: designing spaces that are not only beautiful, but also comfortable, durable, and well-designed.
If you're envisioning a home where everything makes sense—from the layout to the choice of materials—we can help. Let's talk and together, build something truly worth living in.
