What is the difference between minimalism and simplicity?

Minimalism and simplicity are two design philosophies that are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same. Both have roots in the modernist movement and emphasize the use of simple and uncluttered designs, but there are some key differences between them.

Minimalism is about reducing design elements to the bare minimum in order to achieve a sense of simplicity. It involves stripping away everything that is unnecessary and focusing only on what is essential. Minimalism is characterized by clean lines, a limited color palette, and a focus on negative space.

Simplicity, on the other hand, is about clarity and ease of use. It is a design philosophy that seeks to make things as simple and straightforward as possible, without sacrificing functionality. Simplicity is characterized by clear and concise communication, intuitive interfaces, and a focus on user experience.

While minimalism and simplicity share some common ground, they are not the same. Minimalism is focused on aesthetics, while simplicity is focused on usability. Minimalism is often used in art and design, while simplicity is often used in technology and product design.