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What is Maximalism?

September 27, 2024

If you’ve ever looked at a room and thought, “This needs more!”, then maximalism might be your new best friend. In the world of interior design, maximalism is the opposite of "less is more." It’s about embracing more is more! From bold patterns to layers of textures, and a whole lot of colour, maximalism is here to help you express your personality in your home in the most fun way possible.

So, what exactly is maximalism? And how can you bring it into your space? Let’s break it down.

Maximalism: The Basics

Maximalism is all about filling your space with things you love—whether that's art, homeware, or furniture—with no fear of overdoing it. Think of it as curating a collection of objects that spark joy, rather than aiming for a perfectly tidy, minimalist space. It’s a celebration of abundance; rich colours, contrasting patterns, and decor that doesn’t hold back.

In contrast to minimalist design (which focuses on clean lines and simplicity), maximalism encourages creativity, bold choices, and layers. It’s less about sticking to a theme and more about mixing things up! If you love vintage pieces, eclectic art, and funky home accessories, maximalism allows you to bring them all together without worrying about things being too “matchy-matchy.”

Embracing Colour and Pattern

One of the defining features of maximalism is the fearless use of colour and pattern. While a minimalist space might stick to a neutral palette, maximalism throws caution to the wind. Jewel tones like emerald greens, deep purples, and vibrant reds all play nicely together, while bright pops of colour can be used to create focal points in the room.

Patterns, too, are a big part of maximalism’s charm. Whether it’s floral wallpaper, geometric rugs, or striped cushions, there’s no need to hold back. The beauty of maximalism lies in its contrast—mixing different patterns and textures creates a visually rich and exciting space. 

Homeware and Accessories: The Heart of Maximalism

If you’re thinking about how to incorporate maximalism into your home, homeware and accessories are where you can really have some fun. The key is layering. Start with some statement furniture—a bold, colourful sofa, for example—and build around it with plenty of decorative pieces. Think vintage vases, quirky sculptures, and unique lamps. The more you mix and match, the more interesting your space will become.

Maximalism is also a great excuse to display collections of objects. Love ceramics? Stack them on open shelves. Have a collection of vintage mirrors? Create a gallery wall! Plants, artwork, and sentimental trinkets are all welcome in a maximalist space. The trick is to fill your home with things that you love, not to follow any strict design rules.

Maximalism Doesn’t Mean Clutter

One thing to remember: maximalism isn’t the same as clutter! While it’s tempting to fill every inch of space, the key to successful maximalism is balance. The goal isn’t to overcrowd your home, but to create a curated collection of beautiful objects that tell a story. 

How to Get Started with Maximalism

If maximalism sounds like a bit of you, but you're unsure where to start, here are a few easy ways to dip your toes in:

  1. Start with a Feature Wall: Choose a bold wallpaper or paint colour to transform one wall, and build the rest of the room around it with complementary (or even contrasting!) patterns and textures.
  2. Mix Old and New: Combine vintage pieces with modern furniture. A retro armchair alongside a sleek coffee table is pure maximalist magic.
  3. Layer Your Accessories: Pile on the cushions, throws, and rugs. The more textures and patterns you add, the cosier and more visually appealing the space becomes.
  4. Gallery Walls Are Your Friend: Display artwork, mirrors, or your favourite prints in an eclectic, non-uniform layout. The more varied, the better!

Maximalism is about creating a space that feels authentically you. It’s the perfect trend for those who love colour, texture, and celebrating the objects that bring them joy. There’s no right or wrong way to do maximalism—so go ahead, embrace the fun, and let your home reflect your personality to the fullest.

Discover our range of vintage home accessories to help you get started on your maximalist journey today. 

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