Maximalist Style
Defined by striking colors and patterns, these interiors prove the joy behind a ‘more-is-more mindset.’ If you believe that more is, in fact, more, the maximalist interior design might be the decor style for you. Maximalist design is a ‘style and aesthetic’ that leans into the more is more mentality. The antithesis of minimalism, maximalist interiors embrace bold use of:
- color,
- pattern,
- layering.
To create a space that honors and celebrates excess. However, maximalism isn’t just piling everything into a room and calling it a day; ‘it’s as intentional and curated as any other interior design trend.’
What is
If you’ve heard of minimalist design, ‘it’s the opposite.’ Maximalist interiors often emulate the more affluent parts of life. This style leans into significant, bold decision-making.
It’s a design style rooted in a ‘more-is-more’ philosophy that often blends an eclectic mix of:
- patterns,
- colors,
- textures,
- objects,
- shape,
- form.
It’s fun to combine all your favorite things in one room and then show them off strikingly and playfully. It is tied to the ‘Hollywood Regency’ aesthetic, with many patterns, colors, and textures. Still, though a lot often goes into a maximalist home, the design style is simple and clean. It should be distinct from:
- over-decorated,
- cluttered,
- dizzyingly busy design.
If careful, maximalism can slip into messy, which is different. Defining components and features of maximalist interior design:
- Nothing is genuinely maximalist if the neutral palette is used unless a bright, show-stopping color is necessary.
- The most crucial aspect—and arguably the most fun—is the rooms’ bold colors and intense scale.
Maximalist design should evoke the woah reaction because something is not what you would have imagined; combining that scale is often the most typical cause of a ‘WOW’ response. It’s not comprehensive, but think about this list of design details when planning a maximalist space:
- interior design colors,
- bright, enchanting wallpaper,
- mixed patterns with memorable contrasting motifs, like flowers or animal print, geometric shapes, or florals,
- ornate accents, like chandeliers,
- layered fabrics,
- statement pieces,
Of course, it’s essential to remember what maximalism is not: simple,
- subdued,
- understated.
The design would never include a simple colored couch. Instead, opt for something bright, patterned, or engaging in shape. Maximalism has been a part of the design world for centuries—how it has manifested in our homes has changed over time, of course, but exhibiting all of one’s prized things is no new idea. Proper thought and care make maximalism simple to accomplish in the home.