We are in the midst of the crazy run-up to school breaking up for summer. Our calendar is filled with summer fairs, goodbye parties, singing performances and art shows. We are seriously depleting our energy reserves before the official switch-off and – hopefully – recharge.

I am a minimalist. Perhaps you are too?

My sister and I have independently developed the exact same morning ritual. We get up early, brew ourselves a cup of something (coffee for her; tea for me) and take it outside – rain or shine. This allows us a moment to simply be with our thoughts.

The art of sharing is a very useful minimalist tool in any home. After all, why should every single member of a family own something when it can be shared? The Graeae, or sisters of the Gorgons, in Greek mythology took this art to its very extreme in their household.

My husband, daughter, son and I share a 1970s modernist maisonette in the heart of London. Our floor space measures some 900 square feet. In addition to using the space for family living, my husband and I both work out of our home on a part-time basis.