For some time now, the idea of simplistic, minimalist living has taken the world by storm. Whether that be the clothes we wear, the food we eat, the items we bring into our homes, or the way we design our living space–minimalism has surged. Now, there is a new trend on the rise and it is quite the opposite; say hello to maximalism. People are ready to express themselves and mold their spaces into a world that makes them feel happy, comforted, and excited to get out of bed every morning. And this is where maximalism comes in!

What is maximalism?

Maximalism was actually born among the postmodernism era during the mid-to-late 20th century. This movement was recognized across music, art, fashion, literature, and eventually made its way into architecture and interior design. Most people think maximalism is just an excuse to stuff as many items as you can into your space but it’s actually quite the opposite. While maximalism does play off of excess, it’s really all about the way colors, patterns, art pieces, lighting and even little details are used. In essence, maximalism is bold, loud, and over the top, but always done in a tasteful way that makes the space brighten the mood. Maximalism definitely isn’t for everyone, but there’s something about a perfectly designed maximalist space that brings a smile to your face.

four images in gorgeous Jade palette by Liberty London from The Modern Archive Collection — *gorgeous Jade palette by* *Liberty London* *from The Modern Archive Collection*

Some attributes of a maximalist room include:

● A bold and well curated color palette that energizes the space while also looking cohesive

● The blend of multiple prints, patterns, and textures that all fall within the chosen color scheme

● An excess of thought-out wall art and other decor items which add an interesting flair to the room

● Loud accent pieces such as a bright colored sofa, large art piece, sculpture, table lamps, etc.

● A blending of styles that go beyond your typical one-sided interior design trend

● Layering of eye-catching accessories and statement pieces

● A personal touch of the home owner’s taste and interests

Maximalist tips

Ready to incorporate maximalism into your space? Here are some must-know tips:

It’s all about color

Throughout patterns and prints, it’s important to stick to a cohesive color palette. To make it simple, you can always feel free to start out with neutral tones and then build from there. Many maximalists will start with navy, beige, black, or white walls and then focus on furniture, artwork, decor, and even gallery walls for a much needed pop of color. When incorporating patterns into your room, make sure that they match the color palette but don’t be afraid to mix prints. This will have your space feeling cohesive and perfectly curated while also keeping the eye interested in different patterns.

Keep it comfortable

Just because it’s maximalism doesn’t mean it can’t be comfortable! Your space should make you feel warm and welcome every time you step into it and a maximalist design is no exception. Unlike minimalism, you don’t have to limit what you bring into your space to make it your own. Comfort can mean bright pillows, chunky blankets, dreamy drapes, loud tapestries, and more. It may not happen overnight so give yourself some time to create the space you’re comfortable relaxing, entertaining, and working in.

Don’t be afraid to downsize

Maximalism does not necessarily mean an overload of stuff–so if you’re thinking of turning your space into a maximalists’ dream, it’s time to downsize. As the artist, designer and writer, William Morris famously said,

Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.

If you’re working on redesigning your entire home or apartment, start by decluttering one room at a time and understand that it may take time to get to where you want to be. Focus on items that no longer serve a purpose to you or your space. The pieces you display should complement the overall look of your room and create eye-catching moments. Always remember that when sifting through your items.

Emphasize art

What’s a maximalist room without a wall of art? Accent gallery walls are key when designing a maximalist space as a way to add excess without adding clutter. They’re also a way to show off your personal taste in art to keep your space feeling like, well, you! Forget about matching frames and themes, feel free to make your accent walls feel like a piece of art themselves with loud prints, bold colors, and exciting images. And framed art isn’t the only option! Have fun by utilizing neon signs, tapestries, macrame, light fixtures, and more to create your perfect accent wall. Just make sure to keep the spacing between each item uniform!

Stay organized

While excess does play a part in maximalism, clutter does not suit any room. And while there will always be stuff we need to survive, work on an organization system that will keep these less-than-pretty items out of sight and mind until you need to use them! You can achieve this through tasteful furniture pieces such as wardrobes, ottomans, desks, bookcases, and more.

English country living room in modern maximalist style with pinks, turquoises and mustard yellow curtains. — *image by Andreas von Einsiedel/Alamy*

Make it personal

At the end of the day, your space will always be your own. While you can play into the trend and its “rules”, maximalism is all about expressing yourself and your personal style. Designing your space should be exciting and filled with items that bring you joy, no matter what anyone else has to say! Afterall, you are the one who has to live and thrive in your space, so make sure to make it your own. One of the most important aspects of maximalism is that nothing has to be perfect! We are so used to being bogged down by neatness, organization, and uniform design that we forget to have fun with it. A maximalist design is almost never considered perfect but that’s what makes it interesting! Don’t stress about consistent furniture or decor. Start by creating a space that you’re happy to walk into everyday and you’ll already be in the maximalist mindset!

Also! Check out our contribution to the Redfin article, 'Maximalism in Minimalism: Designers Share 26 Tips for Infusing Maximalist Vibes into Minimalist Spaces', where we were interviewed along with other wonderful designers, all sharing our top tips on maximalism!

Explore our table lamp collection, perfect statement pieces for your maximalist decor!