How to Work the Maximalist Interior Design Style

For a long time now, minimalist décor has been the darling of design, with neutral schemes and pared-back interiors everywhere. But its opposite, maximalism, is gaining ground. Where minimalism is about restraint and using less, maximalism celebrates the joy of bold colour and eclectic layers of texture and pattern.

Maximalism won't be for everyone, and there's a risk of styling a room in homage to an eccentric great-aunt, all chintz, mismatched furniture and random artwork. It should feel joyful and balanced, not chaotic, because there's an art to this trend. So if you're ready to be bold and playful, follow our tips on making maximalist décor work for you.

What is maximalism?

First, it isn't new. Maximalism has been around for centuries; the Victorians loved it. As materials became more accessible in that era, people began using interior design to show their personalities to visitors, layering pattern and texture through upholstery, furniture, textiles and elaborate wallpaper. More recently it's found favour with younger generations, with millennials embracing the vibrant style, excess plant life, bold colour and statement pieces included.

Key themes of maximalism

Unlike minimalism's stark simplicity, this is all about excess and abundance, a home meant to induce joy and happiness, though not through excessive consumerism, fans often curate a room with recycled or inherited pieces that hold memories.

Pattern: think floral wallpaper, geometric tiles, Art Deco curves on furniture or rugs (below), stripes and countless others.

Texture: mix and match wooden panelling, tiles, wallpaper and paint with different textiles, dressing a mid-century lacquered side table with a glass vase or sleek modern lamp, for instance.

Layers: the epitome of maximalism, combining pattern, texture and colour for interest; instead of one rug, layer several, and cluster statement pieces on your mantelpiece or shelves among other elements.

Vibrant colour: grab a brush and roller and have fun, playing with bold pairings and cool colour-blocked shapes (curves are on trend) on your walls, spicing up a kitchen with electric blue cabinets or mustard walls, or both.

Tips on achieving the look

Creating a maximalist space can feel daunting, so start with the elements you're comfortable with, whether vibrant colour combinations or new wallpaper, and perhaps begin small, a maximalist loo makes a real statement.

A few of our favourite maximalist ideas: bookshelves stacked with colourful novels, plants, photos and knick-knacks; a gallery wall mixing prints, textured frames and artwork; interesting colour combinations and painted shapes on the wall; tiled floors with geometric shapes and colour mixes; wallpaper with floral, plant or natural elements; and an abundance of plants (biophilia is a key trend, long may it last).

Remember that maximalism isn't about adding more and more; you need to know when to stop. Curate the look, don't go over the top and cram in all of the above, choose your focal point and run with it.

Looking for more ideas? Get inspiration from our colourful blogs and design tips, or browse more of our maximalist imagery below.