This Furniture-Free Apartment Takes Minimalist Living To The Next Level

Just when I thought I'd seen the most minimalist-inspired homes imaginable, I stumbled across Youheum Son's YouTube channel. Son's decluttering journey culminates in an Austin, Texas, apartment with hardly any furniture, art, or accessories. The self-proclaimed HSP finds that the pared-down space helps her live more sustainably in every sense of the word: She maintains a low environmental impact, isn't overwhelmed by stress, and has time and energy to pursue non-material pleasures. Here's Son talking about all the abundance she's been able to find simply by owning less:

Natural, simple, and calm.

Thanks to Japanese minimalist Fumio Sasaki and decluttering coach Marie Kondo, I realized that simplicity can be a powerful tool for attracting more focus and peace. Their work and teachings served as the biggest motivator for me to create a calm and simple space.

In the early stages of minimalism, I wasn't aware that I needed more spaciousness and less stimulation. But as I became more conscious of my triggers as a highly sensitive person, it eventually led me to gradually let go of physical distractions. So about three years into decluttering, I fully embraced a calm and clutter-free lifestyle through furniture-free living. 

I'm content with what I have in this present moment, so I don't feel the need to add anything else. But I am flexible and open to the idea of getting furniture in the future if needed! Right now, I just love the gentle swing of my hammock bed. I also enjoy tapping into my Korean culture by sleeping on the floor, eating on the floor, and wiping the floor by hand.

I believe that it's important to be gentle with the unfolding of minimalism, so take some time to set clear intentions before going too deep. Reflect on your emotional needs and wants before diving into life-changing commitments. Ask yourself what you hope to achieve through the practice of letting go—in the short term and long term. Tools like reflective journaling, vision boards, and focus wheels can help.

I try to cultivate experiences that bring me joy instead of material things. I love creating positive memories outside of my home by going on adventures, traveling with my family, and reconnecting with nature. This allows me to appreciate the presence of abundance in a non-material way. 

It gives me more time and space for nourishing activities like yoga, meditation, friendly gatherings, and natural movement. I love how my current environment supports my emotional health by allowing me to be more focused, mindful, and calm throughout the day. 

I enjoy the practice of noble silence from my mindfulness teacher Thich Nhat Hanh, which is the practice of being fully present with silence. But there are also times when I listen to calm music while I work from home or when I do household chores. I burn lavender and sage bundles while I clean my home or when I practice morning yoga.

I've been told that my space looks peaceful and calm because of the natural colors and bareness. I've also heard that I look very happy and content with where I choose to live.