Clinical, stark, ‘less is more’ homes are on their way out. We’ve got our eye on maximalism, the design philosophy that lives life large and packs a punch with its playful, joyous spaces and emphasis on colours, graphics and patterns. Less is NOT more anymore, and could it be possible that you, too, are looking for — well, just more?
It might be time to rethink your spaces, and embrace the wild side of your personality. We’ve curated some décor inspiration for maximalist living rooms. Ready to get energized?
Quirky and Fun!
Maximalism is all about exuberance and the joy of living life the way you want to, without any rules. Austerity has no place in this way of living, so get ready to inject your spaces with a shot of pure, unadulterated fun! And while it’s nice to have some unifying elements, the best part of this trend is that you don’t need to obsess over matching styles or colours.
Take your cue from this living room, with its eclectic mix of all the colours under the rainbow. Pale green walls form a low-key backdrop to the glittering jewel tones in the couch and armchairs, while the multi-hued rug and larger-than-life artwork on the wall tie the palette together.
Exuberance Rules!
This is not a room for the faint-hearted! Every inch of space in this powerful room is infused with deep, saturated shades of colour. But even within all the vibrancy, there is a sense of order and every element blends in perfectly with the next.
Deep fuchsia, vibrant scarlet, and neon yellow jostle for attention amidst deep navy and serene aqua. Framed artwork in an array of sizes is placed on the countertops, allowing the walls to hold their own. There’s a surfeit of clutter—yet not even a bit of chaos, as everything has its place.
Eclectic Style
Maximalism and eclecticism go hand in hand. This décor style loves to pair elements that are a mix of textures, styles, and cultures.
Here’s a living room that exemplifies this style; orchestrating a breezy pairing of IKEA-style industrial shelves with a heavily embellished wooden chest, vibrant pops of colour in the couch and cushions, a motley collection of jars and even a zebra head on the wall. All the contrast in the room serves only to highlight the beauty of each piece. Don’t miss the tiny glimpse of the distressed concrete ceiling, which stays true to its industrial roots!
Boho Cabin-Style Living
If you’re a lover of Boho chic, then you’re sure to love this ‘more is more’ trend as both styles share an appreciation of funky, boisterous excess. Get set to enjoy your holiday in this living room of a pinewood cabin that’s high on maximalist style!
Maximalist is all about surprises and mixes elements that really don’t need to blend. The richly patterned vintage carpet is an unexpected find in the midst of cheerful crocheted circles and tasselled macramé wall hangings; while the sober pinstriped curtains are quite out of character with the rest of the room. Yet, somehow, they all match!
Load Up On Colours and Textures
This fuss-free, no-rules style is all about decorating with the things you love. Be generous with colours, and opt for deeply saturated hues in velvety textures. Jewel tones are very popular, and this living room is spot on with the blend of velvety blue, golden tourmaline and burnished amber shades in the upholstery and furnishings. The backdrop is kept muted, which makes each glittering element stand out and get its share of well-deserved attention.
Here’s how to get the essence of the maximalist style just right…
- Maximalism is bigger, bolder and busier. You can’t go wrong with graphic or animal prints, floral patterns and deep colours; the more the merrier!
- Are you a collector? Put every single one of your prized photographs, collection of hats or jars out there for the world to see.
- While maximalism embraces excess, it doesn’t mean that you have to stuff your room with elements that don’t go well together. It’s a carefully curated collection of disparate items that are unique, with each deserving its time in the spotlight.
- This style loves repetition, whether it’s in the form of patterns, colours or graphic details. So by all means repeat that much-loved black and white motif in your rug as well as your curtains.
- Create layers of everything. Layers of texture, layers of colour and layers of personality!
- There are no themes or styles that you need to stick to. So that lovely vintage rocking chair can be placed right next to the deep purple velvet couch.
- Maximalist décor tells your story to the world. Share your travel artefacts, prized books, and DIY projects with friends and family; put them on display instead of locking them away!
- Multiples of the same item, like books, statues and paintings, can be used to enhance the effect.
Lose your inhibitions! It’s time to go maximalist, and just have fun. Love the style, but not quite sure where to start? The HomeLane team can give you a hand. Let’s connect, we’re just a phone call away!
