If you were a homeowner already in the early 2000s, or if you EVER picked up an interior design magazine before 2010, you saw it…the scene was DOMINATED by minimalism. That meant:
- Clean lines
- Neutral colors
- Reigning simplicity
- Hidden appliances
- All-white kitchens
This was when “greige” was the epitome of chic!!
Fast forward to today, and everything is different. Look at the colored appliances and technology-focused gadgets from the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show this spring…or the interior design trends that kicked off 2024.
How did we get here?!
Before learning how to use maximalism in interior design, it’s important to know how it became so relevant. Let’s take a look…
From minimalism to maximalism: the evolution of today’s interior design
Interior design is cyclical. That doesn’t explain, though, how we got from minimalism to maximalism in the space of a decade.
In the early 2000s, minimalism was a direct response to the extravagance of the decades before. The clean lines, muted colors and uncluttered spaces came with the new mantra: “less is more.”
As the years passed, though, a shift came. It was a gradual rebellion against the constraints of minimalism. Some people grew tired of living in spaces that felt devoid of personality…THEIR personality!!
More people began to crave expression and warmth. Texture and color came back. And, with the added momentum of new manufacturing material possibilities, revolutionary tile printing technology, and new home gadgets that changed everything about how we use each space, the pendulum was in full swing in the opposite direction from the minimalism of the 2000s.
The transition from minimalism to maximalism was marked by several key changes in interior design:
- The rediscovery of color. It started as “pops” of color against the white and greige. Then, it moved to bold monochromatic interiors. Then, it embraced a kaleidoscope of hues!! Homeowners were excited to infuse spaces with a sense of personality again.
- A new appreciation for texture and pattern. Maximalist interiors are richly layered and tactile. The fabrics, the wallpaper, the finishes, the furnishings…it all invites touch and exploration. From sumptuous velvet sofas (including performance fabric velvets!!) to intricately patterned rugs, EVERY element can add depth and dimension to a space.
- Individuality reigns again! Maximalist interiors are a melting pot of styles and influences, and with the extra time spent at home during the pandemic years, we NEEDED that opportunity to express ourselves in our home environments.
- Traditional-inspired furniture. Traditional-inspired furniture has come back with a modern makeover, blending classic elegance with surprising flair. Imagine a traditional silhouette of a sofa…the curved armrests at each side…JUXTAPOSED against an asymmetrical back, and with Lucite legs!! This mix of old and new has created a more detail-focused atmosphere in furnishings.
Maximalism shows no signs of slowing down…its boldness and individuality have captivated interior designers and homeowners, and NOW the only question is…
HOW do you incorporate maximalism into your home without it looking over-the-top, gawdy, cluttered, or hairbrained?!
How to use maximalism: the “do” and “do nots”
In high-end interior design, maximalism has made a bold statement. It’s a celebration of individuality and self-expression. Each environment becomes an immersive sensory experience, as tactile as it is beautiful.
If you dream of every corner of your home telling a story, every element bringing you joy…there are some “golden rules” to make maximalism work in a cohesive way that NEVER overcrowds or overwhelms you.
Done right, maximalism can be a daily feast for the eyes and a celebration of your personal style. Start with this guide to master maximalist elegance…
DO:
- Embrace a diverse color palette: don’t be afraid to mix and match bold colors with softer ones!! This adds depth and keeps the bold colors delivering their “wow” factor in contrast to the softer hues.
- Experiment with textures and patterns: you have ENDLESS selections today that merge new textures and tactile appeal, from your sofa to your oven hood!! You can layer patterns or mix-and-match textures for a stimulating environment.
- Create a focal point: even with all there is to see and touch in a maximalist space, each room still needs a focal point to anchor it.
- Create collections: showcase your personality and interests with a collection of like items in a space, such as an art collection or a group of related antiques.
- Layer accessories: add depth and dimension to a space by layering accessories for the perfect maximalist look…for example, throw pillows over throw blankets, or rugs over the flooring. Mix and match textures to tell a cohesive story.
- Incorporate statement pieces: decide which items will be your statement pieces to serve as conversation starters or focal points! Whether it’s the sculptural light you just had to have or the oversized sofa you love, make sure it reflects YOUR style.
DO NOTS:
- Overcrowd the space: maximalism embraces abundance, but you need to avoid competing elements and insure a comfortable flow around each room.
- Use clashing colors and patterns: mixing colors and patterns is a hallmark of maximalism, but be mindful of how colors interact. Avoid analogous collections (like coral with orange with raspberry), especially with bright colors that can overstimulate if used in excess.
- Neglect visual hierarchy: a visual hierarchy is the balance within your design that’s made by prioritizing focal points and creating a sense of flow. Strike that balance by ensuring each element has its own space to shine.
- Sacrifice functionality for aesthetics: even if you’re REALLY into the look, don’t sacrifice the functionality of a space for any style. Each piece still needs to serve a purpose to enhance your lifestyle, whether providing seating, storage, or amenities when you host guests.
- Ignore scaling and proportion: it’s easy to oversize things when you think you have the space!! Strive for a balance that feels comfortable and ensures easy traffic flow.
Follow these guidelines and ask your interior designer what each one means for the look or selections your heart is set on.
Maximalism, when done right, is an opportunity to unleash your personality, passions, and individual style. Let your imagination run wild!! Today, finally, the world is telling you: “more is always more.”
Subscribe to our quarterly magazine to see these interior trends through the eyes of our CEO and Principal Designer, Robin Burrill.
Thank you, Amy! Color…I LOVE color…but it can be overused, like you say. I’m glad the article made points that resonated with you!
This post was a real treat to read and I especially appreciate your documenting the color changes and the use (and overuse) of bright colors came into play. A very interesting read, I just might keep this one and share it with people who need to hear from an expert how to do it right! Great post Robin!
Thank you, Leslie! It was truly a pleasure to include the AILA sink in the last issue of our quarterly magazine. It’s that kind of innovative design news we’re excited to share! It really gets people thinking about the possibilities to elevate their homes.
Good morning, Robin! Thanks for this post re: the *do’s* and *don’t’s*. It’s not easy to get *maximalism* right, and these tips are so helpful!
I love your new website, by the way – it turned out so beautifully!
I also really enjoy getting your quarterly magazine in my inbox, too. It’s always a fun read and I appreciate you including my AILA sink for Thompson in the last issue!