Less is more
Meaning
Simplicity and conciseness often lead to greater impact or effectiveness than complexity or elaboration.
Origin
This iconic phrase is famously attributed to Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, the pioneering German-American architect. While the concept of elegant simplicity certainly predates him—think ancient Greek aesthetics or Eastern philosophies—Mies van der Rohe cemented the precise wording into the modern lexicon. He used it as a guiding principle for his modernist architecture and design, advocating for clean lines, open spaces, and minimal ornamentation. His stark, functional buildings, often constructed from steel and glass, embody this philosophy, proving that stripping away the unnecessary can reveal profound beauty and efficiency, making the phrase a rallying cry for minimalist movements across various disciplines.
Examples
- When designing a logo, remember that less is more; a clean, minimalist design is usually more memorable.
- The chef believed less is more, using only three high-quality ingredients to create a truly exquisite dish.