Maximalism is all about going big—bold colors, rich textures, and spaces filled with things that make you happy. Forget the idea that "less is more." With maximalism, more is more, as long as it's done with purpose. It's not about clutter; it's about personality, layering, and storytelling.
For years, minimalism ruled interior design, but maximalism has been making a comeback. A recent survey revealed that Gen Z homeowners are increasingly favoring bold design elements such as wallpaper, stained glass, wood paneling, and animal prints, moving away from minimalist trends.
This shift indicates a desire for homes that feel alive and personal, not just empty and curated. Think of it like this: if minimalism is a whisper, maximalism is a joyful shout.
So, how do you get the look without making your space feel overwhelming? We'll dive into where maximalism started, what makes it work, and how to bring it into your home. Whether you love vibrant color schemes or mixing patterns and textures, you'll find ways to make maximalism work for you.
The Origins and Evolution of Maximalism
Maximalism isn’t new—it has deep roots in history. Think of the grand, opulent interiors of the Victorian era, where walls were covered in patterned wallpaper, furniture was ornate, and every surface held something decorative. Even earlier, baroque and rococo styles celebrated excess with intricate details, luxurious fabrics, and bold colours.
Over time, design trends shifted. The mid-20th century embraced minimalism, favouring clean lines and simplicity. But maximalism never disappeared—it simply evolved. In the 1980s, bright colours, bold patterns, and eclectic decor made a comeback, influenced by pop culture, fashion, and art movements.
Today, maximalism is gaining popularity, with interior designers predicting it to be a prominent trend in 2025. Social media, especially platforms like Instagram and Pinterest, has helped people embrace individuality in design. The rise of vintage shopping and sustainability has also played a role—mixing old and new is key to the look. More than just a design trend, maximalism reflects a shift in how people want their homes to feel: full of life, memories, and personality.
If you love bold spaces that tell a story, maximalism offers endless possibilities. And the best part? There are no strict rules—just your creativity and what makes you feel at home.
Key Characteristics of Maximalist Design
Maximalism is all about personality, vibrancy, and curated abundance. While there are no rigid rules, a few key elements define the style:
Bold Colour Palettes
Maximalist spaces embrace rich, saturated hues. Jewel tones like emerald green, deep blue, and mustard yellow are common, but pastels and neons can work too. The key is layering colours that feel exciting and dynamic. Instead of sticking to one or two shades, maximalism encourages mixing multiple tones to create depth and warmth.
Layered Patterns and Textures
Forget the idea that patterns should be subtle or match perfectly. In maximalism, stripes sit next to florals, geometric prints mix with animal prints, and every layer adds visual interest. Textures play a big role too—velvet cushions, woven rugs, metallic accents, and glossy ceramics all work together to create a space that feels rich and immersive.
Eclectic Mix of Furniture and Decor
Maximalist spaces often feature a mix of styles, eras, and materials. A vintage wooden cabinet might sit next to a sleek modern sofa, topped with colourful throw pillows. The combination of old and new makes the space feel collected over time rather than designed all at once. It’s about curating—not cluttering—your home with pieces that spark joy.
Personalisation and Storytelling
Maximalism is deeply personal. Every object, book, and piece of art contributes to a larger story about the people who live there. Walls are filled with gallery-style art displays, shelves hold travel souvenirs, and furniture choices reflect unique tastes. The goal isn’t to follow trends but to create a space that feels like you.
Maximalism thrives on individuality. It’s about surrounding yourself with things that bring happiness, energy, and creativity.
Benefits of Embracing Maximalism
Maximalism isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about creating a home that feels alive, inspiring, and uniquely yours. Here’s why embracing this bold style can be so rewarding:
Expression of Personal Identity
Your home should reflect who you are, and maximalism makes that possible. Whether it’s a collection of vintage finds, colourful walls, or an eclectic mix of patterns, maximalist interiors tell a story. Every piece you choose adds personality and meaning to your space.
A Cosy and Inviting Atmosphere
Despite its boldness, maximalism creates warmth. Layers of textiles, vibrant colours, and carefully arranged décor make a room feel lived-in and welcoming. The mix of different styles and textures adds depth, making spaces feel rich and comfortable rather than sterile or cold.
Flexibility to Mix and Match
One of the best things about maximalism is its freedom. You’re not tied to a single design trend or era—you can blend modern furniture with antique treasures, or pair bold wallpaper with classic artwork. This flexibility means your home can evolve with your tastes over time, without the pressure of sticking to a rigid theme.
Encourages Creativity and Playfulness
Maximalism allows you to experiment with colour, pattern, and texture without fear. It invites playfulness in design—mixing unexpected elements, layering décor, and creating unexpected focal points. The result? A home that feels dynamic and full of life.
At its core, maximalism is about joy—surrounding yourself with things that make you happy and turning your home into a reflection of your passions.
Practical Steps to Achieve Maximalist Interiors
Maximalism might seem overwhelming at first, but it’s all about layering with intention. Here’s how to bring it into your home without chaos.
Choosing a Colour Scheme
Colour is the foundation of any maximalist space. Bold, vibrant hues set the tone, but it’s not just about using every colour imaginable—you want a balanced mix.
Pick a dominant colour that ties everything together.
Add complementary and contrasting shades for depth.
Experiment with jewel tones, rich earthy hues, or playful pastels.
If you're unsure, start with a colourful rug, artwork, or statement furniture piece and build from there.
Mixing Patterns and Textures
The magic of maximalism comes from layering patterns and textures. Stripes, florals, geometrics—when mixed well, they create a lively, dynamic space.
Stick to a consistent colour palette to unify different patterns.
Vary pattern sizes—pair large-scale prints with smaller, detailed ones.
Use different textures like velvet, wood, metal, and woven fabrics to add richness.
Don’t be afraid to experiment. If it feels cohesive to you, it works!
Curating Art and Decor
Maximalist spaces thrive on personality, and nothing does that better than art and decor that tell your story.
Display collections—books, ceramics, vintage finds—things that make you happy.
Mix high and low—pair statement artwork with personal photographs or quirky thrifted pieces.
Layer decor on shelves, mantels, and tables, but keep it intentional.
Think of your space as a gallery of your life, filled with things that bring joy.
Balancing Space and Functionality
A maximalist home doesn’t mean a cluttered home. It’s about creating a full but functional space.
Use furniture with storage to keep essentials tucked away.
Leave breathing room—every surface doesn’t have to be covered.
Group decor into vignettes rather than scattering things everywhere.
Maximalism is about thoughtful abundance, not chaos. As long as your space feels inviting and practical for daily life, you’re on the right track.
Common Misconceptions About Maximalism
Maximalism often gets misunderstood. Let’s clear up some of the biggest myths.
1. "Maximalism is just clutter"
Not true. Maximalism is intentional. It’s about curating meaningful pieces, not filling a space with random objects. Every item should add value—whether it’s for aesthetics, sentiment, or function.
2. "There are no design rules"
While maximalism embraces bold choices, it still follows key design principles:
Balance – Even with lots of colours and patterns, a well-designed space feels cohesive.
Proportion – Mixing different shapes and sizes creates harmony.
Flow – Each element connects visually, avoiding a chaotic look.
3. "It’s expensive"
Not necessarily. Maximalism thrives on mixing high and low—thrifted finds, family heirlooms, and DIY projects all have a place. It’s about creativity, not cost.
4. "It’s not practical"
A maximalist home can be both functional and stylish. Thoughtful layering ensures spaces feel cosy rather than overwhelming. Plus, storage solutions help maintain order while still showcasing personality.
Maximalism isn’t about excess—it’s about expression. When done right, it feels curated, personal, and livable.
Tips for Maintaining a Maximalist Home
A maximalist home is dynamic, full of life and personality—but it still needs balance. Here’s how to keep things intentional and organised without losing the charm.
1. Edit Regularly
Maximalism isn’t about keeping everything forever. Every so often, step back and reassess. Does an item still spark joy? If not, consider rotating pieces or donating what no longer fits your space.
2. Keep It Organised
Storage is your best friend. Use:
Stylish baskets to tuck away everyday items.
Open shelving to display collections neatly.
Furniture with hidden storage to keep things functional.
3. Let Your Space Evolve
Maximalism allows for change. Your tastes will grow, and so should your space. Swap out art, rearrange furniture, or introduce new colours—it keeps your home feeling fresh and exciting.
4. Find Balance
Even with bold colours and patterns, balance is key. Use neutral backdrops or strategic empty spaces to let standout pieces shine. Not every surface needs to be covered.
Maximalism thrives on creativity and personality. Keeping things organised and evolving ensures your home stays vibrant without feeling overwhelming.
Conclusion
Maximalism is all about self-expression, creativity, and embracing the things that bring you joy. It’s not about clutter—it’s about curating a space that feels rich, layered, and full of personality.
Whether you love bold colours, eclectic patterns, or meaningful collections, maximalism lets you design a home that truly reflects you.
The best part? There are no strict rules. You can start small, experiment, and adjust as you go. If you're looking for expert guidance in bringing bold, character-filled interiors to life, James Williamson Architects is here to help. Get in touch today to discuss your vision.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is maximalism interior design?
Maximalism interior design celebrates abundance through bold colors, rich textures, and an eclectic mix of patterns. It’s about filling your space with personality and visual interest. Each piece tells a story, creating a vibrant and welcoming environment.
2. How do I avoid clutter while embracing maximalism?
3. How can I mix bold colors and patterns without overwhelming my space?
4. Is maximalism interior design expensive to implement?
5. How do I get started with maximalism in my home?
Comments