Habitus Magazine | Issue 31

That’s why, in this issue, we’ve chosen to explore living in a more minimal way. It is definitely a challenge, when we are surrounded by so much excess. But it can be achieved with a little editing.

I’m not being biased here. Editing is not just for editors – it’s something everyone does, all the time. We try on different outfits, change up our interiors, decide which friends to invite, and choose our words carefully.

Part of the value of editing lies in its ability to cleanse. Reviewing an existing situation, whether it’s your wardrobe, your home, or your to-do list, is an exercise in mindfulness, conscious reflection. And the final act – discarding the superfluous (responsibly of course) is wonderfully liberating. Once the detox is complete, the sweet sense of space is an addictive tonic.

The experience aside, the purpose of editing – as is our aim with each issue of Habitus – is to better curate an experience. Ergo, the experience of living is better when curated. Less is more.

With fewer things, each becomes more special, and the subtleties of life start to become more apparent. For example, in his reflections beginning on page 97, architect Koichi Takada (whose work is pictured above) talks about how the senses, quality of light and relationship with the seasons are heightened in a traditionally minimalist Japanese washitsu room.

With less space, each square centimetre becomes more significant. The bespoke apartment crafted by Gary Galego on page 104 is a wonderful example of how something small can be filled with value and meaning.

This idea of living with less, more consciously, is a precious thing. We often need reminding of it, because as soon as space is created, there are possibilities for filling it. On that note, this is a rather long editorial so I’ll take my own advice and …

Nicky Lobo | Editor