How to nail the maximalist design trend

If you’re a staunch believer in clean lines, crisp white walls, and neutral colour palettes, look away now. While minimalism has had its (very long) moment in the sun, we’re currently digging maximalist design. Bold colours, unique patterns, and experimental textures collide in a vibrant display of interior decor. However, maximalism doesn’t mean merely stuffing your home with colour and various knickknacks; maximalism encourages making the most of your space by blending various design styles and intelligently combining colours, prints, and embellishments for maximum aesthetic effect.

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Here’s a list of the 8 best tips to help you master the maximalist decor trend.

1. Create a sense of unity

Though maximalist decor may involve merging a wide range of decorating styles, your space doesn’t necessarily need to look over the top. Establish spacial cohesion by tying elements of your room together; use one overarching colour, or coordinate your furniture with a design aspect of your wallpaper. Finding a way to connect the pieces in your home ensures your space always looks cohesive and well put-together, regardless of how many patterns, colours, and design styles are involved.

2. Find the excitement in watching paint dry

Colourful walls are to maximalism what white walls are to minimalism. A simple coat of paint can be used to infuse any space with a touch of maximalist decor. Try painting your ceiling or opt for a bold coloured feature wall. Alternatively, start small by jazzing up your furniture with a pigmented shade.

hamish bowles maximalist design — IMAGE: HAMISH BOWLES BY ANNIE SCHLECTER

3. Return of the clash

While minimalism may shun mixing and matching prints, maximalism encourages it. So your paisley wallpaper doesn’t quite match that floral bedspread? Go for it anyway! Try teaming different prints together and see how they play off each other. To ensure even the most juxtaposing prints work cohesively, use complementary colours. If you stick with a specific colour palette, your decor will blend in.

4. Rug up

A boldly coloured, patterned rug is a surefire way to inject a space with some personality. Look for rugs with interesting textures, vibrant hues, and unique patterns.

5. The rule of threes

Maximalist design is rooted in colour. To ensure you get the most out of your space, try to focus on a maximum of three foundational colours for your furniture and walls, and layer any additional colours through accessories and art.

alex papachristidis interior maximalist design — IMAGE: ALAX PAPACHRISTIDIS

6. Don’t go matchy-matchy

For a truly maximalist look, ditch matching sets in favour of a mishmash of several different furniture pieces, colours, and design styles.

7. Reverse Marie Kondo your space

Embrace the joy that your collectables spark! Unlike the clean lines of minimalist decor, maximalist decorating encourages eclectic pieces. From vintage furniture finds and second-hand books, to travel souvenirs and antique trinkets; everything is welcome in a maximalist space!

8. Time to hang out

Turn your home into a gallery by displaying all your art together. Forget what you know about frame, colour, and subject coordination and simply fill a wall with art you enjoy. The only rule? Make sure to space your artwork evenly – decide on a measurement between each frame and stick to it.