Ever feel like your space needs more life? I get it. After years of clean lines and neutral tones, I finally embraced the joyful rebellion of maximalism—starting with my holiday decorations. Turns out, I’m not alone. This vibrant trend is exploding, especially among Gen Z and Millennials, according to recent social media data.
But here’s the secret: it’s not about throwing everything together. We’ll show you how to create curated chaos—bold colors, statement furniture, and gallery walls (because no naked walls allowed!). As one designer puts it, “Life is chaotic—that’s what makes it beautiful!”
Ready to transform your home? Let’s dive into the art of intentional, eye-catching spaces. For more inspiration, check out these home decor ideas to get started.
What Is Maximalist Interior Design? (And Why It’s Trending)
Remember that thrill of finding a treasure at a flea market? Maximalism bottles that joy into a design philosophy. It’s not just filling a room—it’s curating a vibrant story with every piece. Think Louis XIV’s Versailles: gilded mirrors, intricate tapestries, and *zero* empty corners.
Defining “More Is More”
Dorothy Draper, the 1960s queen of bold spaces, once said: “There’s room for bright shiny colors!” That’s maximalism. It’s Victorian-era richness meets modern personality—layered patterns, treasured objects, and walls that demand attention.
Unlike Marie Kondo’s “spark joy,” we’re keeping what *ignites* joy—not just what “sparks clean.” Alexa Hampton’s Kips Bay Show House nailed it: emerald walls, leopard-print chairs, and a chandelier that could double as art.
Maximalism vs. Minimalism: Key Differences
Minimalism whispers; maximalism shouts. One thrives on empty spaces, the other on curated chaos. But it’s not clutter—it’s intentional. During COVID, people crabbed energizing rooms, sparking a 2023 TikTok revival (#maximalism has 1.2B views!).
- Eclectic: Mixes styles (bohemian + modern).
- Boho: Earthy tones, global textures.
- Maximalism: *All* the colors, textures, and history—with a plan.
Rooted in history but fresh for today, this style lets your home scream *you*. Ready to dive deeper? Let’s explore color palettes next.
2. Bold Color Palettes That Demand Attention
Forget safe neutrals—today, we’re embracing colors that make a statement. Whether it’s a living room drenched in emerald or a bedroom with neon-pink trim, the right hues can turn any space into a showstopper.
Jewel Tones vs. Neon Brights
Heather French’s brick-red library taught me this: jewel tones (sapphire, ruby, emerald) add instant luxury. Pair them with metallic accents for drama—like her blue ceiling wallpaper with gold trim.
Prefer something bolder? Ken Fulk’s pink chintz guestroom at Commodore Perry Estate proves neon brights work—if balanced. Test samples at different daylight hours to avoid overload.
Mixing Patterns Without Chaos
French & French’s bathroom reno nailed it: stripes + florals + geometrics = magic. Their secret? Pick 2-3 base colors, then layer patterns in similar tones.
- Rule of thumb: One large-scale print + two smaller ones.
- Color drenching: Paint walls, trim, and ceiling the same shade (try Farrow & Ball’s “Hague Blue”).
- Paint brands: Benjamin Moore for depth, Sherwin-Williams for durability.
The “Garden of Hell” living room? Crimson walls + acid-green velvet sofa. Sounds wild—but it works because they kept other elements simple. That’s the way to do maximalism right.
3. Statement Furniture: Go Big or Go Home
Furniture isn’t just functional—it’s the star of your space. Think of Hubert de Givenchy’s tiger-print velvet sofa or Truss Interiors’ emerald-green couch paired with matching art. These pieces don’t blend in; they own the room.
Oversized Sofas and Ornate Chairs
Your sofa should start conversations. Scale matters: my 10’ sofa in a 12’ room? Mistake learned. Anchor bold furniture with textured rugs—like Fran Keenan’s red lacquered bookshelves balanced by a Persian carpet.
Pro tip: Mix materials. A plush velvet couch with steel legs adds depth. For more inspiration, explore how a statement piece can transform your living area.
Vintage Finds with a Twist
Skip big-box stores—hunt local markets for gems. That brass bed frame? Spray it neon yellow. Ornate chairs with chipped paint? Perfect. They’re history with personality.
- Weight distribution: Pair heavy dining tables with airy acrylic chairs.
- Color drenching: Match upholstery to wall tones for cohesion.
Remember: Statement furniture isn’t clutter—it’s curated confidence.
4. Layering Textures for a Sensory Experience
Texture isn’t just something you see—it’s something you feel. The right mix turns a flat, forgettable room into a space that invites touch and tells a story. Take Serena Dugan’s jewel-box powder room: a collection of glossy tiles, nubby linens, and a vintage mirror that begs for a closer look.
Velvet, Silk, and Faux Fur Combos
I learned the hard way that not all textures play nice. That faux fur bed throw? My cat mistook it for a litter box. But when paired right—like velvet pillows against a silk-upholstered chair—the contrast is magic. Here’s what works:
- Rough + smooth: Jute rugs under a lacquered table add balance.
- Shiny + matte: Aldous Bertram’s china cabinet gleams against rough-hewn wood.
- Budget hack: Remnant fabric sales = instant throw pillow upgrades.
Rugs on Rugs: The Ultimate Maximalist Move
Why stop at one rug? MMB Studio’s tile “rug” (yes, tile!) proves even floors can layer. For the rest of us, try this:
- Jute base + vintage kilim: Cozy durability with a global vibe.
- Carpet tape: Keeps layers from shifting (trust me, you’ll thank me later).
- Color threads: Tie rugs together with a shared hue.
The goal? A touchable space that feels as rich as it looks.
5. Wall Treatments That Wow
Blank walls? Not in this house! Your walls are prime real estate for personality. I learned this after covering my bathroom vanity in Timerous Beasties’ thistle wallpaper—suddenly, brushing my teeth felt like stepping into a fairy tale.
Dramatic Wallpaper Choices
Large print + small room = instant drama. Blessed Little Bungalow proved it with mural-inspired bedding that matched their wallpaper. Renters, take note: removable options like Tempaper add flair without commitment.
- Scale matters: Oversized florals in a powder room feel luxurious.
- Don’t forget the ceiling: Schumacher’s botanical print turned a kitchen into a garden.
- DIY hack: Spray-paint mismatched frames the same color for cohesion.
Gallery Walls with a Purpose
Fran Keenan’s rule-breaking art wall taught me: start with 3 anchor pieces at eye level. Mix photos, paintings, and oddities (that vintage clock from Grandma?). Here’s how:
- Layout first: Arrange on the floor before hammering.
- Odd numbers: Groups of 3 or 5 feel balanced.
- Small-space solution: Try a mini gallery above a narrow console.
Your walls should scream *you*—whether it’s bold wallpaper or a gallery of flea-market finds.
6. Lighting as a Focal Point
Lighting isn’t just functional—it’s the jewelry of your home. A well-chosen fixture can elevate your space from ordinary to extraordinary. I learned this after swapping my basic flush mount for Architectural Antiques’ tasseled pendant—suddenly, my dining area had drama.
Chandeliers and Pendants with Personality
That botanical kitchen light from Molly Singer? Game changer. Here’s the way to make bold fixtures work:
- Size it right: Height x Diameter = Room Size (a 12′ room needs a 24″ wide fixture)
- DIY upgrade: Add bead strands to basic pendants for instant glam
- Safety first: Vintage fixtures need weight checks—my 1920s chandelier required reinforcement
Layered Lighting for Ambiance
Henri Samuel taught me that lighting needs layers, like a good outfit. My bar area now has:
- Programmable LEDs (warm for dinners, cool for cleaning)
- Wall sconces flanking artwork
- A statement floor lamp in the corner
The way these elements work together? Magic. For more inspiration, explore these stylish lighting ideas that transform any space.
7. Maximalist Myths Debunked
Let’s clear the air—maximalism isn’t about hoarding; it’s about storytelling. I learned this touring Marie Antoinette’s Gold Room: every gilded mirror and tapestry had a purpose. That’s the way to do it—intentional, not chaotic.
“It’s Just Clutter” – Why That’s Wrong
Alidad’s London apartment proves maximalism is curated, not crammed. His Victorian-inspired space layers heirloom objects like a museum—each piece *earned* its spot. Try the “dust test”: if you can’t clean it easily, it’s clutter.
- Sustainability win: Vintage > fast furniture (Billy Baldwin swore by this).
- Gen Z’s twist: “Cluttercore” celebrates personality—TikTok views jumped 200% during COVID.
Historical Roots (From Versailles to TikTok)
Versailles didn’t hold back—and neither should you. Designers like Baldwin taught us: fill spaces with what means something. Today’s trend? Mixing eras. That 1800s portrait? Pair it with a neon frame. History, but make it fun.
8. Small-Space Maximalism: Yes, It’s Possible
Who says small spaces can’t pack a big punch? I used to think my apartment was too tiny for bold decor—until I tried Galeana Younger’s chevron tile kitchen trick. Now, every nook feels like a treasure box of personality.
Powder Rooms with Punch
Even the tiniest bathroom can wow. My friend’s 5×5’ project proved it: floor-to-ceiling stripes (Farrow & Ball’s “Brinjal”) made the room feel taller. Pro tips:
- Dark ceilings: Paint them the same color as walls for cozy depth.
- Multi-functional furniture: Like an ottoman hiding extra towels.
- Limit patterns: Stick to two per micro-space (e.g., floral wallpaper + geometric rug).
Nooks and Crannies Done Right
Nina Garbiras’ reading nook taught me: tiny spaces shine with intention. Her 4’ corner features a vintage chair, layered textiles, and a gallery wall of mini art. For a bar, MMB Studio’s 4’x4’ setup uses vertical shelves and mirrored backsplash to double the light.
Ready to start? Check these small-space office ideas for more inspiration. Remember: size doesn’t limit style—it focuses it.
9. Embrace the Maximalist Mindset
Your space should tell your story—loud and proud. Like Miles Redd’s fearless pattern mixing, it’s about layering with joy. Start small: a bold throw pillow or a gallery wall can set the tone.
Alexandra Tolstoy’s living room proves it’s not about stuff—it’s about curated treasures. Rotate decor monthly to keep your home’s vibe fresh. Fearful? Remember: “Your space should mirror your soul.”
As one designer puts it, “Be the curator of your own museum.” Ready to dive in? Share your way with #maximalistmakeover—we’d love to see it! For more ideas, explore these inspiring examples.