What Is Maximalism? How to Incorporate Maximalist Decor Into Your Home
Go bold with these maximalism ideas.
Maximalism is making a bold entrance into the home decor world. While minimalism has been trending for years, maximalist interior design is rising in popularity for being the opposite of the minimal style we all know. From bright colors to intricate and clashing patterns, maximalist decorating is all about incorporating boldness in colors, eclectic prints, and fun embellishments. Read on to learn more about maximalist interior design and how to incorporate maximalist decor into your space.
What Is Maximalism?
Maximalism incorporates bold colors, clashing patterns, and intricate designs all into one space. The style is all about excess and embracing the mixing and matching of textures, colors, and patterns. While minimalism was on the rise, maximalist style is becoming more popular as people reject the idea of minimalism and embrace excess.
While other styles tend to display only one or two statement items as accent pieces, maximalist decorating encourages the use of as many accent pieces as possible. (Think busy, bright, and big!) Combine your favorite photos and collections with bright colors, unique textures, and different styles to turn your space into the ultimate maximalist home.
1. Start a Gallery Wall
If you are looking to incorporate maximalist decor in your home, consider starting slow. Add sentimental pieces like family photos or heirloom accents as a starting point, and then build color and layer in patterns and textures. Keep in mind that maximalism can begin to look cluttered fast; though this isn't an inherent flaw, adding a few pieces at a time will help you keep it from looking too messy as opposed to curated.
Maximalism is all about bright, bold colors. Add pops of color throughout your home with small decor items (like throw pillows, vases, or wall art) to highlight it with splashes of the rainbow. Don’t be afraid to add multiple conflicting colors to make a bold statement in one space. For a more commanding pop of color, add larger pieces in bright colors (like rugs or furniture pieces) to create a bigger and bolder color statement in the room.
Layering textiles is the perfect way to incorporate a variety of textures, patterns, and colors in your space to show off your unique style. Layer rugs with different textures on top of each other; the difference in textures will help add contrast and detail to the room. Choose rugs in different colors and patterns to help add even more contrast to your layers. For added texture to your maximalist decorating, look for curtains in unique materials, like velvet, to incorporate more texture to your room.
Tip!
Check out our guide How to Layer Rugs so you can become a pro.
4. Use Repetitive & Clashing Patterns
Choose your favorite patterns (like animal prints, florals, or abstract patterns) and display them loudly throughout your home as throw pillows, area rugs, and more. Maximalist interior design is all about embracing the idea of excess, so don't be afraid to pair clashing patterns throughout your room to create a bold mix of patterns. Opt for patterns in different colors to create a more compelling, eclectic look.
Embrace the idea of combining styles and try mixing and matching your favorite colors, prints, and textures. Opt for patterned throw pillows in your favorite colors to add to your sofa for a way to add splashes of color while mixing intricate lines and shapes to the room. Go for a bolder look by adding patterned wallpaper to your space.
Tip!
If you’re apprehensive about adopting permanent wallpaper, opt for easy-to-remove peel-and-stick wallpaper instead.
If you are looking to add accents to the room (like throw pillows or accent chairs) in neutral shades, opt for an accent in a leopard or snake print. While it’s a patterned piece, the muted colors will contribute to that natural backdrop you are looking for. Mixing these patterns throughout the room will help you keep your colors from overwhelming the room while still creating a maximalist decor vibe.
Look for funky statement pieces like upholstered furniture in fun patterns or oversized art to hang on the wall. While adding color and interest to the space, the shapes themselves also help add to the maximalist look of the room. From bar stools with bold accents or shapes to large, unique plants, these added maximalist decor pieces can help change the overall look and feel of your space.
If you have a patterned floor, you can try to select a solid color that you adore and splash it on all your walls – top to bottom. Pair it with simplistic artwork in matching tones to break up the visual. Finally, use an assortment of chairs in different styles, tones, and shapes around one large table for a fun and quirky statement with a laid back feel.
It is time for you to get those books out of storage and put them on display. Pick an enormous library shelf and organize your books by color to make an aesthetic statement. When paired with a bold wall and bold furniture in rich velvety materials, you will be well on your way to hitting that maximalist decor style.
Now we have answered your question "what is maximalism?" you can get started on shopping to make this design aesthetic your very own.
