Minimalist interiors are stunning and serene, but if you crave a richer environment brimming with energy and individuality, consider embracing maximalism. It’s the opposite of restraint—celebrating abundance, exuberance, and joy.
With roots in Baroque and Hollywood Regency styles, today’s maximalism showcases curated chaos with a modern aesthetic. It combines your passions, personality, and tastes in a way that’s inviting, not overwhelming.
Go all in with color, texture, and pattern to craft a unique atmosphere that tells the story of you. Let’s explore how to infuse your home with the spirit of maximalism.
Define Your Style
Maximalism breaks some design rules. But one rule not to break? Design with intention. Let your imagination run wild then find unifying characteristics to define your style. This is key to making purposeful choices for a harmonious home. Here are some suggestions:
Contemporary
Think clean lines, modern and pop art, and a touch of industrial edge. Bright, playful colors like emerald green, cobalt blue, or burnt orange contrast beautifully with neutrals. Use sharp geometrics and bold graphic patterns with statement furniture in vibrant hues.
Lodge
Elevate the mountain aesthetic. Moody tones like ruby red, deep blue, and forest green bring a cozy feel. Add traditional patterns like plaid, tartan, or floral combined with wild animal prints. Bring in Turkish rugs, Navajo tapestries, plush faux furs, and natural elements like pinecones or antlers to add character.
Eclectic
Mix traditional with modern for visual interest. Pair vintage and contemporary furniture. Layer textures and textiles like chunky knits and funky patterns. Introduce global-inspired accents, such as colorful masks or woven baskets, for a touch of adventure.
Dark and moody, bright and bohemian, world traveler, glitz and glam, granny chic–there’s no limit to the styles you can amp up with maximalism.
No Surface Left Untouched
“More is more” is the mantra for maximalist color, pattern, and texture. Start with the largest surfaces in a room–the walls and ceiling. Bare walls are practically non-existent. Every surface, including the ceiling, often features something to catch the eye.
Bold Colors and Patterns
Choose saturated hues that complement colorful furniture to add instant energy. Pair deep teal or turquoise with a bold orange sofa, baby pink with a burgundy upholstered headboard, or mossy green with a bright yellow bookcase. Paint your trim in bright, bold colors to grab attention.
Statement Wallpaper
Opt for bold wallpaper on the walls or ceiling. Large murals, striking graphics, oversized patterns, and animal prints make a maximalist impact.
Bookcases and Gallery Walls
Floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall bookcases add life to your walls and provide plenty of space to showcase collections and accessories. Cover your walls with artwork. Gallery walls, a hallmark of maximalism, should mix pieces of various sizes and subjects to layer on personality. Use colors, subject matter, or frame finishes to unify the mix. Keep experimenting until it feels right.
Rugs
Don’t forget the floor. Layer boldly patterned and colorful rugs to anchor the space.
Pattern Play
Fearlessly mixing and matching patterns creates a maximalist riot for the senses. Choose a mix of patterns. Cover large areas with wallpaper and rugs, and use patterns in small ways with accent pillows and textiles.
The secret to harmony is finding a common thread. If you love floral patterns, try combining different scales and colors of floral patterns or use color to tie together contrasting patterns. Animal prints like cheetah, leopard, and zebra can act as neutrals, adding edge or elegance.
If too many patterns feel overwhelming, use a neutral base. A big black-and-white pattern can add plenty of drama. Using similar colors and tones creates a sophisticated look. Introduce solid colors and textures to anchor the space and give the eyes a place to rest.
Showcase Your Collections
Maximalism celebrates abundance, not clutter. Carefully curate accents and accessories that express your interests and personality. Each item should have a purpose, a place, and contribute to the overall aesthetic.
Collections are the heart of maximalism’s charm, offering small-scale explorations of your interests. Edit until you find a sense of harmony. Consider each item’s impact on the space. Does it complement the existing decor or create chaos?
Break out the family photos and heirlooms, and layer objects onto as many surfaces as possible. Display unique ceramics, antique books, or travel souvenirs with flair. Group similar items for impact. Mix and match different collections for an eclectic look. Scour antique stores and local markets. They’re treasure troves for unique collectibles and trinkets that add character.
Inject Fun and Joy
Maximalism is about celebrating life, so don’t be afraid to add elements of fun and whimsy.
Unexpected Colors.
Incorporate unexpected color choices. A vibrant handrail, a playful pop of color on cabinetry, or a brightly lacquered furniture piece adds playfulness without compromising sophistication. Surprising shades on accent furniture and vibrant accessories can add wow to the space.
Opulent Accents.
Hang oversized light fixtures or crystal chandeliers. Use ornate mirrors or picture frames. Surround your windows with voluminous floor-to-ceiling curtains. Add attention-grabbing door and drawer pulls to cabinets or furniture. Opt for plush textures in throws and pillows.
Neon Signs and Fun Decor.
Neon signs inject instant personality. Choose an inspiring quote, playful phrase, or simply your name. Hang irreverent art pieces to set a lighthearted tone. Experiment with different textures, patterns, and colors in your accents. Pillows, again, are a great way to add a bold geometric pattern or unique shape or print to instantly energize a space.
Living Elements.
A profusion of plants is common in maximal style. Beyond a jungle of potted plants, try a living wall of plants to add life, color, and dramatic impact.
Embrace Your Inner Maximalist
Maximalism is more than a trend; it’s a lifestyle. It’s about creating a home that reflects your personality, passions, and experiences. By embracing color, pattern, texture, and personal collections, you can transform your space into a haven of comfort, inspiration, and joy.
Fear has no place in maximalism. This is the time to go big AND go home. Curate your possessions carefully, mix patterns with intention, and leave the safe neutral decor behind. Experiment with unexpected elements. Be brave.
Maximalism takes confidence and expertise to get the balance right. If you’re unsure where to start, consider consulting with an interior designer to guide you through the process and make your vision a reality. Embrace your inner maximalist to create a space that’s truly extraordinary.
