I’ve become pretty skilled at using an X-Acto knife. Let me explain.
I once took an architecture modeling course. The course grade was based on my ability to construct a scaled, replica model from a set of architecture plans using only foam core, wooded dowels, glue and an X-Acto knife. As a class we had more questions than answers. For those who struggled with interpreting the building plans and moving toward implementation our professor simply stated, “Less is more.”
It was Mies Van der Rohe, a Minimalist architect and designer who first coined the phrase. During the 1930’s – 1960’s, Mies created dynamic, free and open spaces within the confines of a structured and ordered environment. Among other credits, he is chiefly responsible for designing the first glass and steel high-rise building. Mies spent less time chasing design trends and more time on design essentials. While some may say he went overboard in his minimalist tendencies, his work embodies the convergence of both form (the way it looks) and function (how it feels).
Living in a culture of high-achievement and high-performance makes it easy to sometimes lose sight of the essentials. Books, seminars and on-the-job training tells us to do ‘whatever is necessary’ and ‘at whatever cost to maintain a competitive advantage.’ It is this imbalance that can lead us to rely more on what we do and less on what God wants to do.
How often do I make life’s challenges more difficult than they need to be?
Essentially, it is a dependence issue. It is in these times that I find myself asking for the strength and freedom to depend less on ‘me’ and more on ‘Him.’ I am continually learning that “Less is more,” is really more than just a great design principle.
I am a fan of the work of Mies Van der Rohe — I find beauty in how he made the simple both appealing and useful. I realize not everyone finds Minimalism aesthetically pleasing like I do. But, I think Mies got it right when he later remarked, “God is in the details.”
How can “less” really become “more” in your life?
