Tiina Ilmavirta, of the blog Design Wash, is an unofficial expert in interior design. An art director by day, Finland-based Ilmavirta has a passion for home design (particularly in the Scandinavian fashion) and channels it in to her personal residence. Decorated both methodically and effortlessly, Ilmavirta’s home is a lovely example of function meets style.

A true minimalist, Ilmavirta’s home is primarily neutrals: white, grey, and black dominate the decor, with the perfect amount of light wood as an accent. The kitchen features white cabinetry and a jet black table and chairs, while the living room mixes grey rugs and furnishings with black and wood accessories. In the bedroom, a neutral palette provides a peaceful oasis for snoozing. The design of the dwelling is refreshingly simple, yet Ilmavirta’s personality shines through in each piece, whether in a particular light fixture, a dining set, or the bed linens.

I want to create a peaceful atmosphere. For me, it’s important that our home looks good but even more, it has to feel good. The simpler it is the more I enjoy it. I like the lightness that doesn’t have too many colours but lot of neutral tones and matt materials that give a soft feeling to the space. The right kind of contrasts bring a sharp edge.

I decorate our home over time. I don’t need to get everything done right away. Sometimes I try different ideas and see if they work or not. I find it important that the dimensions are right so that the whole space is balanced, but the details are just as important. I’m trying to make a functional combination of shapes, materials, and shades.