The Rise of Maximalism

Mid-century modern, Scandinavian and minimalist design trends have been hugely popular over the last few years with pared-back style being celebrated in homes worldwide. We’ve seen muted colour palettes, simplistic natural shapes and raw, organic materials at the top of interior wish lists – and guess what? Minimalism isn’t leaving the spotlight any time soon.

But with the change in season now upon us we’re excited to see the rise of the next big design trend on the horizon: Maximalism.

Maximalist interiors are renown for being bold, daring and playful. Prints clash, textures are layered and experimental, colours are vibrant and call out for attention. The desired effect is tasteful, balanced and masterful. Not loud and garish. When done well, Maximalism showcases personal style and creative flair.

If you’re looking to embrace a new trend for the new season, then look no further. We’ve put together five easy ways to incorporate Maximalism into your home.

A dash of colour

Painting your interior walls (whether it’s an accent wall or an entire room) is the most obvious and easiest way to quickly achieve an updated Maximalist décor.

Saturate your space with a few well-chosen tones that complement each other and blend seamlessly with your existing colour palette to create a bold, statement look. Experiment with clashing primary, secondary or analogous colours, or stick to monochromes to create a ‘grown-up’ focal point. We love the luxurious look achieved by pairing rich, royal blues and vivid teals together (as seen above).

 

One is simply not enough

Whilst Minimalism plays on empty, open space Maximalism is all about excess. Adding repetition to your space is another brilliant way to play on the Maximalism trend.

The aim here is to duplicate shapes and materials without overdoing it and cluttering your space! Hanging multiple fittings in a variety of sizes and colours is a great way to add interest to your space. We’ve suspended our ash, oak and walnut Urchin Pendants in small, standard and large sizes in the photograph above to create a custom, feature lighting display.

Throw in some pattern

The key to trying out maximalist pattern combinations is to start small and be subtle. Cushions, throws or even decorative crockery pieces are a good place to start.

Pattern is a great way to amp up the style of a space but it’s all too easy to get carried away with busy, clashing prints. The best way to avoid creating a gaudy interior is to layer similar patterns in different sizes together, or, to mix patterned, duo-textured materials. Start low-key by choosing a rug with bright geometric shapes like we have styled in our Modum Range photoshoot (photographed above) to add a touch of Maximalism without going overboard.

Layer contrasting textures

Now dare to be bold...playing around with textures in our homes is something we’re all familiar with.

We tend to re-evaluate textures seasonally depending on the weather and of course, our mood. Updating your interior with some more luxurious textures is an easy way to add opulence and celebrate the maximalist trend. Whether it's soft, metallic, suede-like, fluffy, woven or glossy, swapping in new textures to a space adds instant interest and can be a lot of fun. 

"Texture takes Maximalism to the next level by mixing visual and tactile diversity".

- Heals.

 

Play with shadow and light

A few statement lighting pieces make for a truly maximalist space. Look for fittings that have interesting and unusual aesthetic and that throw transfixing shadows across your room.

Choosing ‘wow factor’ lighting will always spark conversation and will ensure your interior is remembered for all the right reasons. Our Skipper Pendants, whilst being inspired by minimalist, Scandi style really pack a punch when illuminated and cast shadows of the most maximal kind…

 

If you’re a little hesitant about incorporating colours and patterns into your home just remember the most important thing is to keep your choices personal to you. Shake things up using accessories and tones you feel confident you will still love in years to come; your preferences define your own creative style.

Posted: 18.10.18
Updated: 05.03.25