How to Use Texture in Minimalist Design with Kristen Ziegler

Published September 2025 | Updated September 2025

Designer and professional organizer Kristen Ziegler believes minimalism is more than an aesthetic—it’s a holistic approach to living. As founder of Minima, a professional organizing and redesign firm based in Richmond, Virginia, she captures her mission in one statement: Make what is necessary beautiful®. This philosophy guides her approach to interiors, her business, and her daily life.

image credit: all images courtesy of Mindie Ballard (except bunnies)

We’re excited to feature Kristen and her Richmond home, a thoughtful re-adaptation of a 1914 residence that balances modern preferences with historic character. Central to her approach is what she calls warm minimalism—a design ethos where natural textures and materials bring depth and richness to minimalism. In this conversation, Kristen shares how that philosophy shaped her remodel, why she chose Sisal Tiles for her home office, and how intentional design choices create spaces that are both functional and authentic.

sisal tiles in color macadamia loose laid in Kristen’s office

In a short sentence, how would you describe your approach to minimalism?

Make what is necessary beautiful® This is Minima’s trademarked mission statement.

How did minimalism find you?

I first learned about minimalism while studying architecture at Virginia Tech. It remained a design concept rather than a decision-making tool until 2009 when I lost my full-time architecture job. I began to look around my modest apartment and question every item I owned. I asked myself, “Do I want to keep this thing, or sell it to pad my savings and pay rent?” I began to simplify more than ever—it was the most empowering and freeing feeling I’ve ever had. I learned just how little I needed to be content and that my time was my most valued asset.

minimalism + organization: sisal tiles met kristen’s standards for a clean look with natural character

How does texture fit into your design choices?

Texture and natural materials are essential to create what I like to call warm minimalism. When there’s less in a space, each item speaks louder and every detail is more important. Natural materials bring depth and softness to a space—wood, wool, cotton, jute, linen, stone, ceramics, etc.

Kristen’s “breathing room”: the transition from life outside to the home is softened with a natural fiber rug, fabric wall sculpture, and a wood bench for a place to pause.

What were your priorities and the biggest challenges you faced in designing the Richmond home?

My priority was to uncover the beauty and integrity of the original 1914 architecture. When we purchased the home, there were layers upon layers of paint on the walls, trim, and original unlacquered brass hardware. The original oak and heart pine floors needed love as well. We worked with our favorite contractors to restore these elements to their former glory.

I have high standards and a strong desire for precision. Our home is beautiful, but it was built in 1914 and has a bit of patina and quite a few unlevel surfaces. I’ve embraced these imperfections as part of the charm—they provide a nice contrast to our crisp modern furnishings. New wear and tear feels less stressful than in a newer build since it blends in with the existing age of the home.

sahara color sisal carpet tile — **sisal tiles** in sahara, macadamia, black & driftwood

**sisal tiles** in sahara, macadamia, black & driftwood

Remodeling an entire home or even a single room can be so overwhelming, from the hardware to the soft furnishings. So much to choose from and inspiration around every corner. How did you come to your decisions and why did Sisal Tiles fit the brief?

The home gave us a lot to work with—so many stunning original details. I used Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace on all of the walls, ceilings, and trim to keep a cohesive feel throughout the space. It’s the perfect classic white—not too cold, not too warm. In most of the home, we left the original flooring uncovered. However, in our home office, we needed a soft floor covering not only for our pet rabbits to get traction, but also because the flooring in this space was in rough shape. The sisal tiles bring a grounding element to the room and are easy to care for. The bunnies love them too—we’ve seen more zoomies and binkies than ever since installing the tiles!

Up Close: sisal’s bouclé structure adds rich texture & a natural foundation for Kristen’s Netherland Dwarf rabbits.

Do you have any advice or tips for someone trying to uncover their own design priorities?

Take your time. My last home took about nine years to complete. We’re on year three at our current home and still have a handful of projects in mind. When a space feels unfinished, it can be tempting to try and fill it with more. I can’t tell you how many times in the past I impulsively ordered something in an attempt to “fix” a space, only to realize it wasn’t the right move. Instead of adding, try rearranging or subtracting elements. Even subtle changes such as moving a lamp or plant can have a big impact on the balance of a space. After making adjustments, let things breathe for a while—it can take time to get used to the changes and accurately assess what’s working. Some of the best design moments in our home came about organically through experimentation and patience.

the richmond living room: core elements + a subtractive design process yields a balanced space

Final Thoughts

Kristen’s home proves that minimalism doesn’t have to feel stark. Through warm minimalism, she shows how natural materials and careful choices create spaces with inviting yet balanced details.

Texture plays a central role here—not only in furnishings like sisal, wool, or wood, but also in the contrast between old and new. The patina of her 1914 home, with its uneven surfaces and worn details, adds richness that buffers the precision of modern furniture and clean lines. And Sisal Tiles weren’t just a practical choice—they reflect Kristen’s broader design ethos: make the necessary beautiful.