Maximalism? Yes or no?
Lots of stuff, or maximalism, is a ragingly popular current design aesthetic, a direct reaction to the minimalism of the last while. I see it being whole-heartedly, and somewhat mistakenly, embraced as a way to have all the stuff you want out for all to see. Not so.
As with any design style, there are guidelines about maximalism. It’s not that easy to pull off, it’s not just a matter of filling up the spaces, it takes diligence and adherence to good design practices such as balance, scale, and proportion.
But if you think you want to embrace it, here are the the top 16 characteristics that define maximalist interiors:
- Bold Color Palettes: These interiors feature vibrant, saturated hues that create a striking visual impact, from jewel-toned velvets to richly coloured accent walls.
- Layered Textures: a mix of contrasting materials is required, from plush velvets and soft faux furs to natural rattan and carved wood, creating visual depth and tactile interest.
- Abundant Patterns: Maximalist spaces incorporate a variety of patterns, including bold florals, geometric shapes, striking stripes, and captivating animal prints, often layered and combined in unexpected ways.
- Eclectic Mixing: this design aesthetic celebrates the juxtaposition of different styles, eras, and design elements, such as pairing midcentury modern and Victorian-inspired pieces. This is where you get to display all the stuff you’ve collected in your travels.
- Ornate Detailing: these interiors feature intricate, decorative elements like moldings, elaborate hardware, and light fixtures with intricate metalwork or crystal accents.
- Accessories: You can’t skimp here, what’s needed is an abundance of decorative accents, from vases and sculptures to vintage objets d’art and curated collections.
- Oversized Artwork: Large-scale paintings, murals, or photographic prints make bold statements in maximalist interiors, commanding attention as the focal point of the room.
- Lush Greenery: Abundant houseplants, cascading vines, and verdant floral arrangements add a vibrant, natural element to these spaces.
- Dramatic Lighting: Statement lighting fixtures, such as chandeliers with multiple tiers or oversized floor lamps with ornate bases — theatrical flair.
- Asymmetrical Balance: Love asymmetrical? Use that here in an asymmetrical arrangement of furnishings and décor,
- Unexpected Combinations: Mix it up — modern and traditional or industrial and ornate.
- Reflective Surfaces: Mirrored furniture, metallic accents, and high-gloss finishes add depth, and luminosity.
- Curated Collections: Maximalist design celebrates the display of personal collections, reflecting the homeowner’s interests and experiences.
- Layered Lighting: Maximalist interiors incorporate multiple layers of lighting, from recessed ceiling fixtures to table lamps and wall sconces, to create a warm, inviting ambiance.
- Opulent Textures: marble, glass, highly polished wood, tactile surfaces everywhere.
- Personalized Vignettes: This design style encourages the creation of curated “moments’, little groupings of accessories that tell a singular story.
This may be a difficult style for some to live with. It is a very busy place, and there are few ‘resting’ places for your eyes. If you are looking to create a calming interior, this may not be the best style for you.
I deal with visual maximalism a lot; my workroom is full of patterns, colours, and textures. When I leave that workplace, I want to be in a space that is calm and doesn’t holler at me. Hence my relaxing area tends to be a low-contrast area. No bright colours, no commanding art, nothing jumping out for attention. Clean surfaces, few things on display. Lots of doors on cupboards. The opposite of maximalism, but to each their own!
