Take It To The Max: What is Maximalism?

If minimalism is the design equivalent of “clearing your mind,” maximalism is where you go to curl up, feel comforted in the familiar, and absorb the unique, chaotic nature that defines you. With maximalism, less is not more. More is more. 

How do you pull off maximalism design? You do you. Unlike genres that adhere to unspoken guidelines to achieve a definitive look, maximalism grows organically from your tastes, life experiences, and collections.

Colors & Patterns

Does a perky splash of poppy against a dark mossy green make you happy? Have a thing for herringbone patterns? Need a place to hang your cool grandma’s retro textile that you love because it reminds you of her? Yes. Yes. And yes. All of the above. Filling your space with saturated colors and contrasting patterns is what it’s about.

Personal Collections

You traveled solo around the world and want to show off the unique pieces you picked up along the way. Maybe you’re a rock hound with some rare finds. Perhaps baskets are your thing. Or feathers. Maybe you’re a bibliophile. Whatever it is, these items are an expression of who you are and deserve to be placed where you can see them, be inspired by them, and talk about them.

Comfort Items

Candles, pillow piles, blankets, photographs — these are the things that can help you feel swaddled in visual love. They add to the layers of interest inherent to a maximalism room.

Plants

With their ability to improve indoor air quality, make you feel happier and keep you connected to the natural world, plants are a welcome addition to any maximalism design.