We’ve all heard a lot about minimalism; the trend that swears by the ‘less is more’ principle. Maximalism, as its name would indicate, is just the opposite. A style that you absolutely cannot get wrong, maximalism is big on colours, big on comfort and big on fun! If you’re someone who loves to play around with bold and beautiful colours, textures and patterns, then this one is for you.
Glam Up!
Glamour and in-your-face luxury are the essences of this design trend. Don’t worry about getting it all perfect, as imperfection is what makes maximalism really work! Oversized seating, luxurious plush textures like velvet and satin, and shiny accents in metal or marble are the outward expression of the ‘more is more’ adage. Surround yourself with whatever feels comfortable.
Personalize Your Spaces
Go with your instincts, and explore all that you love. Feel free to mix and match colours and patterns, and add your favourite art objects to highlight obscure corners. Embrace the unorthodox and splurge on the kitsch. You have the flexibility to experiment with your décor, as there are no rules to this theme! Go right ahead and bring in everything that your heart desires into your favourite spaces.
Go Big on Bold Solid Colours
Exuberant colours are the hallmark of this design aesthetic. It’s all about living large and enjoying your spaces to the hilt. It’s time to let austerity take a back seat. And so deep red walls, purple swirls on the carpet, and jewel-toned surfaces are all possibilities that blend together to create this funky new look.
Wood Panelling
A look that has caught the fancy of maximalist designers involves a contemporary take on traditional wood-panelled walls. Slats of natural wood or veneer that are used as wall cladding; either in straight lines or at an angle, add much-needed character and focus to spaces. While it looks rich, it doesn’t need to be expensive at all. You can achieve the same look with throw-away recycled timber that is cut and planed down to size.
Decorative Layers
This design style uses layer upon layer to create a decorative effect. Your sofa, for instance, can be dressed up with glossy upholstery, textured elements like throws, rounded corners, and layers of colourful cushions. Use patterned upholstery and cushions to add pizazz and don’t shy away from splashes of bold colour or graphic designs.
Create a Feature Wall That is an Art Gallery
There are no limits to the artwork you can show off on your walls, and a feature wall with family photographs is a great idea too. Other than maintaining a uniform spacing between different Photo frames, you need not worry about coordinating colours or themes for the art. With this trend, you really don’t need to play it safe! You will be surprised by how well disparate elements work together in the end.
Love Books? Display Them Everywhere
Maximalists love books and aren’t shy about displaying them everywhere. Stack them on wall ledges, in glass bookshelves, on side tables, or on window sills….anywhere and everywhere. You can create cosy reading corners with a comfortable oversized sofa and a warm reading lamp. This décor style truly is a book lover’s dream. Do whatever makes you happy!
Pick Bold and Funky Wallpaper
Large, bold prints or patterns on the wallpaper can add a unique element to your maximalist theme. Choose rich, bold colours and patterns that tell your story. If you must, continue the patterns on the ceiling as well and highlight the look with concealed lighting. The right choice of wallpaper can add instant impact and maximal style to a room, and transform it from plain to stunning.
Add Vintage Cheer
As we said, there are no rules here, and you can mix and match styles and materials as you wish. Victorian and art deco styles were also all about excess; with plenty of ornate patterns, ceiling cornices, decorative furniture and embellished mirrors. Think vintage; juxtapose elements of the old with the new and create interesting themes that can be surprisingly harmonious. Build on the drama without being too overwhelming.
Bring on the Stripes
Stripes and zigzag patterns add maximal impact to any space. You could use them in the rug, on bedcovers or cushions or the drapes. Add layers, while still retaining a sense of balance and symmetry. Be careful when adding bold patterns against stripes, as it’s very easy to make a décor mistake and the result could be too graphic for your liking. While black and white stripes look amazing, contrasting shades like black and red, or blue and green can also create a fun feel to your spaces.
Maximalism is quirky and it’s fun and is slowly edging out the minimalistic trend in the interior décor space. You need to work on expressing your personality through your home décor and don’t worry about conventional colour palettes and décor trends. Be bold and try going where no one has gone before. You cannot go wrong if you follow your heart!
