Our Minimalist Apartment Tour - Comfortable Minimalism
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- Опубліковано 21 сер 2024
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Our minimalist apartment was put together very quickly, on a shoestring budget, and with the incredible help and generosity of our family and friends (thank you so much to everyone who helped us!).
Our dear friend Alex had been battling cancer for over 2 years when we decided it was time for us to settle down for the winter and spend some time with him.
We found this lease takeover for 5 months with the option to stay longer if we wanted. It’s a spacious 1-bedroom apartment with huge windows and we absolutely love it.
All of the furniture in our apartment is second hand, from the couches to the dining room table, futon bed frame, and our little shelving unit. We also borrowed and bought dishes, pots and pans, cutlery, etc.
It's been awhile since we had our own space, so we had fun making it our own with paintings and little touches of our favourite things, like my great grandmother's blanket on the back of the couch.
We were also very aware that we wanted to have a simple space that didn't have too much clutter in it. Especially since we knew we'd be moving out 6 months later.
We've had a great time living in this spacious, simple space. It's been a big change from spending time in our van, and from house sitting for other people. But in one month we'll be moving out and preparing to convert a new van, so we'll be starting a new chapter of our minimalist journey.
Our friend Alex passed away a couple of months ago, and it's been one of the toughest times for us. We feel so grateful to have had the option to move close to him and have some good moments with him before he left us. Rest in peace, Alex. We miss you every day!
Thanks for watching!
Mat & Danielle
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VIDEO CREDITS
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Music & Song Credits:
All music in this video was composed, performed, and recorded by Mat of Exploring Alternatives.
Editing Credits:
Mat and Danielle of Exploring Alternatives
Filming Credits:
Mat of Exploring Alternatives
I like the fact that its minimalist and at the same time comfy... Most minimalist apartments miss that personal and warm touch to it..
That's what kinda turned me off from it. But realizing it can have that warmth encourages me to move towards that.
Danielle & Matt, your dear friend Alex was lucky to have such terrific caring friends in both of you. The gift of your time spent with him was the best gift you could have shared during his last days. I lost my son at age 20 yrs. due to rare cancer. Many friends and family have difficulty dealing with serious illness and ultimately death due to terminal illness and thus stay away, act unnatural/wired/strange towards those whom are ill/dying. Sharing your time with your friend shines light a positive experience and human compassion. Thank you for your kindness. It's folks like both of you that make our world more hopeful.
hugs:)
What a lovely video and what lovely people you are... I'm so happy for you guys that you decided to follow your intuiton and spend time with your friend Alex. Maybe that's what minimalism is about... Letting go of the clutter, not just in our homes but also in how we spend the time that's been given to us...and holding on to what you love.. people, projects, art and a few items in our homes. I'm deeply sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you.
I'm so sorry about your friend Alex; I'm glad you were able to spend time with him.
Love it. From someone who has a large detached 3-bedroomed house with four garages that are stuffed to the gills because my husband can’t bare to throw anything away, this looks absolute heaven to me. ONE DAY...looking forward to the next video!
I’m very sorry for your loss Danielle and Mat. Hugs
I loved seeing a "minimalist apartment tour" that didn't have all brand new mason jars & beige decor. Liked hearing about how you're borrowing things and focusing less on buying things and more on what you're using/reusing and the mentality behind it. Great vid!
Sending much love and hugs to you to at such a tough time; you are wonderful folk for having stayed with your friend to the end. Best wishes.
Thanks so much for the kind words David :) Hope you're doing well :)
I always appreciate seeing furniture and household items given a continued lifespan versus simply being discarded - wastefully - simply because it isn't new. If it's functional it can be used comfortably (as you illustrate) and then when you're done it has the chance to go to someone else. When so many other parts of the world sees populations going without it's tough to justify unnecessary waste with consumer goods. Your minimalist apartment looks lovely with what you've acquired second-hand or been loaned (okay, maybe not the cable salad on the table but that's a perpetual pitfall of electronics lol). One thing I immediately thought of when I saw the television and the window space - if you are in a city and without cable, and wishing television access a very simple indoor antenna could pull in HD over the air channels should you have want of them.
For Me, Minimalism Means Doing Things, Dumping Things & Toxic Relationships En Route To Enhancing My Emotional Health. Of Course Minimalist Space Has Been a Part Of That Journey. I’m Now In a Large STUDIO Apartment, Rather Than a One Bedroom. But In a Safer, More Exclusive Building. I Did, Reluctantly, Get Rid Of My Professional Books, But I’m Wedded To My Literature & Philosophy Books. Some Are With Me But (I Confess) Some Books Are In Boxes In a Friend’s House. Thank You For Your Thoughts. Most Useful.
Don't worry about buying a trash bin. I've not bought one in 15 yrs. Why spend money for an item to store /catch trash? I've been recycling old bins or pails to function as a trash bin. Coincidentally, was just thinking of lining newspaper in carton box next should i need a trash bin when I came across this video. I'm into my first week to becoming a minimalist in a very busy family of 6. Watching tons of videos for inspiration, ideas and convictions. Have been really drastic and extreme with my own stuff to set an example but taking baby steps with the other family members. Wish me all the best :)
Homes did not house so much stuff years ago! I am 65 and as I see my stuff grow I remembered my grandparents house and my childhood home. There was very little "stuff". It was minimalist but comfortably decorated. I think stuff came in the latter part of the 20th century as affluence increased and things became chaper. i am in the process of decluttering myself. it is hard to let stuff go so i liked your idea of a box of treasures and one of maybes. will use that. i also break it down small like my hall closet or my kitchen junk drawer.
I love this video and your transparency! I started my downsizing journey over the weekend and I love your explanation of how you feel that the items bring value to your life❤️
You know what made me loved your content for years? Because they're simple, lighthearted, and genuine. They're very personal and so they're very informative and inspiring. Thank you for doing what you're doing. Wishing you both more love and adventures. :)
Thanks so much for the super positive feedback!! Have a great day and happy exploring :) :)
I like how you pointed out that it was "your version" of minimalism. Often people think it has to be cold and bare and that's not how it has to be. You can show your life...your personality and have warmth - it's not a crime :)
Keep using the box for garbage. No need to buy a garbage can when you are going to be moving shortly
And that's what minimalism is all about isn't it? Freeing up your time and mind for the things that really matter in life, like friends and family. If you aren't so bogged down by stress and excessive needs you can take the time to be a compassionate, giving, and appreciative person. Very beautiful what you guys did.
The art on the wall is amazing 👌🏼
it is always better to get the bottom edge to match or you get a roller coaster effect that is dizzying and unattractive. some people cover their wall with framed art and different rules apply to that display.
Thanks for the update. Your videos often show us the people you meet. It's nice to get an update about you guys too. Just this week I was wondering if you were still on the road.
I'm glad you had time to spend with your friend. I just want to say that minimalism doesn't have to be ugly. I don't think that this looks like a home where people are happy. It looks unloved. There's nothing wrong with owning something you love, such as books, if that gives you joy. It's all the things that don't give us joy that need to go. I wish I could post pictures here, but there's no way to do that. I wish you much joy.
I am always so interested in seeing how you guys live and hearing your insights on minimalism. Hope you guys are doing well!
We just moved from a big house to an apartment, we are learning but it's very easy to see things and buy things, when I need something I go for a good walk rather than buy it seems to be working, it gets easier, you folks have upsized so it's all to easy to accumulate
The pace this video gave me its amazing, also her voice and the perception of the great relationship hopefully they have. ✨
The true definition of minimalist home, love it!
Another nice and professional video. No need to feel bad about any of it. You guys don’t have children, so this lifestyle is much easier to follow. I love the simplicity that I see. I always tell my daughter that we need to work toward having experiences not stuff. We would love to travel more.
It felt like a Japanese Tour Apartment with the way everything is setup. Its awesome.
Thanks so much for watching!
Hope your friend get well soon. As a cancer survivor, tell your friend there is always hope.
SCD Observer I’d suggest you read the description, as sadly their friend passed away
Megan Danielle I'm so sorry to hear that. May their friend rest in peace...
Well said Danielle, Didier here from Perth Australia. Minimalism is flowing not static, a journey not a destination. The way you allowed your life to flow freely to support your friend is a sad and beautiful journey at the same time for everyone. Loved the video!
Niice simple apartment - keep
life that way. All the best.
Your so a pleasant giving person and very respectful of your needs.
I appreciate a person as yourself and thanks for sharing.
I love it! I live with my mother, who is a hoarder, so the clean and simple minimalist style is paradise to me.
I don't understand why minimalism is so against things that are undeeded but appreciated. Like art on the walls or comfy pillows and blankets. We do not need bedframes, art, shelves, etc but it is nice to have.
I'm so sorry your friend Alex passed away. Thank you for sharing your experience with us.
*Hey guys! Nice to run into your videos! I like that term... "comfortable minimalism". I totally fit this category! 😆*
Thanks MJ :)
It's nice. Usually minimal apartments are so tiny that I often wonder how people breath in them. It's perfect as it's well managed. Not boring and not conjusted at all. The only things that I'll look in my future home (that I'm looking to buy in a couple of years) will be either a lot of widows or a couple of huge widows and less furniture.
What a lovely video! I really like your approach to minimalism, low waste and life in general. Your apartement is really nice, I love the light and open space. And your appreciation for running water and other things that people take for granted is amazing! Thank you for not only this video, but for the whole channel!
I really enjoyed this video! One trick I have for electronics - label EVERYTHING! Either get a pack of labels or just use masking tape, but writing on half of the label and then wrapping it in half around the cord to make a little flag works. And for bigger cords, just putting the label straight on the back of the plug works - I do this for the stuff plugged in so I can see which cord is for what and which power plug is the router and modem. This especially helps for those random "what the heck is this cord for?" moments - I try to do it as soon as I get a new doodad so I don't have to remember what it's for in the future. :D
Love the hanging clothing rack in the closet. I also love how chill and relaxing y'alls videos are!! It is always inspiring to watch Exploring Alternatives videos.
I love seeing minimalist spaces that aren't all white. It makes it seem livable and really attainable. Thanks for sharing.
I feel like this epitomizes why we all need minimalism: you had space in your lives to spend time with your friend before he was gone. Thank you for your example.
It’s perfect for you! We r RV people so I understand what that van means to you! You r doing great and I wish u well in your lifestyle. Thank you for sharing! I love living in small uncluttered spaces.
So happy for u guys that u managed to settle even for a little bit.. i just cant get over the tone of ur voice when u said "running water" ... hope u get to live a bit of comfort even for a little while.. 🤚👍
Whatever I do, I always end up being cluttered again after a couple of days.
Thank you for being humble enough to accept this fact..
I am a reader and accumulate books faster than I can read. And my tastes in subjects, genre, changes quickly. I bought a Kindle reader (the kind that is JUST a reader..not email, games, etc.) so I can "store" books until I can read them and still have a library to choose from when I am ready for a new book. The kindle can hold around 2000 books or so. I dont have anywhere near that many but its nice in that it also can hold cookbooks and manuals for my computer, sewing machine, etc. I personally don't care for Audible books, but my Kindle does have that feature, so I could. All that in one small, slim volume. I can even borrow books, so they don't have to purchased and most I can share with others who have a reader!
The idea of using second hand items and being happy with them has to be spread. It seems so many folks want "new and improved". Well, if an item is still usable and looks good, and has a reduced price, I say go for it. That couch and chair set looked so comfy and inviting, even if it is second hand. And the throws and pillows ad pops of colour.
Also, I like the idea of "donating" your unneeded items to someone else who does need them. There are people who seem to have a tv for EVERY room in the house! Gah! How about one for the living room...and none in the bedrooms?
Here's an idea for books; the OverDrive ap. It's free! You do need a library card and a wifi connection. But if your library system has ebooks to loan out, you can get them downloaded to your tablet or laptop. I do that. I go through five or six books a week. Books are my cocaine. But you see how badly a book habit would overwhelm a room. As well as leaving you bankrupt! Support your local library system!
I love this apartment. Seem like good people.
I just love you guys. The only UA-cam channel I follow religiously! Thank you!
I loved how to explained minimalism as a flow. What works for you may not works for others at the season and how you're reevaluating. I like how you give yourself grace with your "addictions" 😊. Thank you for sharing.
Finally people who stand out in minimalism with color.
Switch books entirely to Kindle as well as Audible books.
You can donate hard copies to free Little Libraries (a growing trend all over the world). If you can't find one, see what it would take to create one along your travels.
For sentimental favorites choose family or friends who are not minimalists, and willing to host a posterity Library.
For the electronic addiction, of which I'm very familiar (it's my career too) try creating one travel laptop bag. The measure for me is when the bag gets too heavy to lift (technically that's no more than 15% of either of your body weight), then it's time to divest from some components. Especially cables, as copper can get quite heavy in large numbers.
Smart TV's come in compact sizes perfect for the van, are large enough to protect your eyesight over time, and yet can take streams cast from your smaller electronics. Interlaced laptop screens can cause headaches and reduce vision over time.
Pro-Tip: Keep your electronic bag down to just one Carry-On size. You may not fly today, or often, but it's a very reasonable size for all types of travelers. It's that size for good reason, both for human ergonomics, and economics.
Look to adding a large inverter (and solar power) for the van, so that you can add a sewing machine or surger if you want to craft on the road. For two laptops and incidentals I'd recommend at least a 2KW system, with deep cycle batteries for the vehicle. You can thank me later.
Health-Hint: Mattresses get infested over time, and should be replaced in less than every 7 years (check your favorite futon manufacturers recommendations). I'd recommend half that, but I've become allergic to many things over a lifetime. The material also has material performance expiration as well. Sentimental attachment can be sustained by sticking with the same manufacturer, or well cared for sheets and blankets.
Sorry for the loss of your friend
Great, as always. You guys are so thoughtful. I appreciate the spirit and tone of your vids.
For people who still enjoy paper books don't underestimate your local library, wherever local may be fore you at that moment. Not only a nice place to set up your office for the day, make use of WiFi (and sometimes the café), even without a card you can still hang out and read books, magazines and newspapers.
Thank you for sharing. I enjoy using twist ties from bread bags or purchased electronics to keep the wires and chargers organized and not tangled!
I love how 'real' you are. It's encouraging to hear, as someone on the path, that minimalism isn't a static, one and done thing, that you're always working on it :-)
Sooo nice and cozy! Wishing you both the best
I really enjoyed the examples of minimalist living. Very pleasant video. Good job.
beautiful !
I like your waste basket. I covered a cardboard milk carton from Costco with a piece of wall paper for a quarter. Line it with grocery bags (paper), then use a plastic grocery bags. Over 11 years & still works.
What a touching testimony! He was also lucky to have faithful friends like you two.
Wishing you both the best
I love the term "comfortable minimalism"! It fits me and my family very well :) And nice apartment!
love your space..so stress free. I'm working towards this.
I love the realistic house tour! Your home is minimalistically beautiful for being the way it is!
Most local libraries have free audio books, regular books, dvd's, etc....
Yes minimalism is a kind of flow, perfect description 🙋
I love your apartment. It's very balanced. It's a pice of art itself.
Mat's art looks super cool. Love the coffee table too. Buying things second hand is the way to go. So sorry for your loss Mat and Danielle.
That couch and chair look so comfy!
Honestly, that is the appeal of a hotel room; minimalism!
This is very similar to what my place looks like.
Guitar, Laptop, minimal wardrobe, bed just off the floor, few books, hobby corner, and glass jars in the kitchen.
I hope your friend Alex heals instantly and completely right now, if not I hope he heals quickly and is doing well.
Awesome! Minimalism is wonderful 👍🏻💕😊 So liberating 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
I am so sorry about your friend. Thanks for the tour.
I love audiobooks. Ebooks are great as well since they don't take up space and can travel wherever you go on an iPad. I agree that minimalism can work in many different situations.
I wish we lived in the same city, I don't have living furniture and would take them off your hands. You did a good job!!
Thumbs up for Tim Ferriss! Also I feel you with the “dealing with his electronics and cords”.... LMAO!
Define minimalist living
John Kelly Having what you enjoy and not a thing more. For maximalists, that's more than average. For minimalists, it's less than average.
In order to have more books and less clutter, try 1. library books or 2. an e-reader like a Kindle or a Nook.
Totally works! Nice.
Matt’s artwork is amazing!
Thank you Shanna :)
I can commiserate Danielle; I've tried several times to downsize my books. I moved probably 500+ with me last year and now I'm down to 100ish, but many of them are read again every year or two or I'm holding on to for my son to read once he gets older (just a handful).
What a lovely, humble home - and Matt is an impressive artist. I love how macabre and abstract his work is.
There's such a thing as a zero waste grocery store? I would *love* to have one near me.
Facts! That would be amazing!
They are probably buying their dry goods at Bulk Barn in Canada which allows you to bring your own glass containers.
Try buying in bulk online or try "Brandless" everything is $3
Ann inGG WinCo is a wonderful place. Oklahoma City has three, so if its here, its probably everywhere (or coming soon :) ) its employee owned and the bulk bins have just about everything you can think of including coffee beans, peanut butter freshly ground to order, baking supplies, cereal, and even freeze dried canned products for long term storage. And, you can buy bulk in case quantities for even more savings.
I shop almost exclusively in the produce and bulk areas with my own bags and containers and havent had any problems.
Unfortunately, they have had to shut down the bulk area until after Covid 19 is gone, but can't wait for it (the bulk bins, not the illness) to come back!
Hope this helps!
God bless you guys!
Hope your friend is doing better! Happy you were able to spend this winter inside. Love your minimalist style & would love for you to be in a small apartment for longer stretches of time. I’m still a supporter of yours regardless. ♥️
Thank you for showing your donation pile. I feel like i constantly have a massive donation pile in my home, even though I try to get rid of it every month at least. It’s nice to see I’m not the only one.
Love this video!! How about doing some book review videos of the books you are reading? Would love to watch that and hear your always honest opinion! Xx
Your apartment looks so nice, like one lovely, cosy place. Those colorful blankets are giving such a warm tone. ^_^
Thanks for the tour and your insight. Very enjoyable!
1:58 beautiful art omg
We really enjoyed your video thanks for taking us on your apartment tour and looking forward to another video
I am always eager to see what you will do next, I see you both buying some land and building a tiny home. Its nice to have some roots in the end.
I love what you did to make it homey!
I enjoy your honesty and intelligent analysis thank you !
What a nice couple
Conscious decorating. Thanks.
Love this! Thanks for sharing 😁
And we love thrift shops, too!!!
I definitely love your voice and the nice and calm pitch of it :)
Nice apt tour and i love the picture over your bed 😃 thanks for sharing
Thanks for watching! Mat's mom painted the large painting above our bed