Maximalism Decor Style: A Complete Guide

A Party for Your Eyes

Flowing quickly into the market from style epicenters, Maximalism in interior design celebrates abundance, inviting you to let your personality shine through every nook and cranny of your space. It's like throwing a party for your eyes, where colors, patterns, and textures are all invited to dance together in harmony.

Where Did Maximalism Decor Originate?

This style has roots dating back to the Victorian era and even earlier, with notable examples including the opulent interiors of grand estates and palaces. Throughout history, Maximalism has manifested in various forms, from the glitz of Art Deco to the glamour of Hollywood Regency style. Its influence extends beyond interior design, permeating music, fashion, and the art world.

Although early displays of Maximalism typically revealed affluence — custom-carved dining tables, gilded accents, hand-painted ceilings — today’s incarnation is less about flaunting wealth and more about creating a fun, happy environment at home.

Who Does Maximalism Decor Appeal To?

If you enjoy surrounding yourself with elements that spark joy and reflect your unique personality … If you’re tired of stark white walls and minimalist vibes … If your personal motto is “more is more” … then you may want to go all-in on Maximalism.

Creating a Maximalist Look

Maximalism rebels against neutral color palettes and matchy, mass-produced decor elements. There’s an emphasis on asymmetry and playful layers of pattern, color, and texture. Does this mean we can be sloppy with composition? No, there’s method to the Maximalist madness! We’re going for intentional, not haphazard, and curated, not chaotic. Most designers agree on blending modern and traditional pieces; some even insist on at least one antique per room to create a layered personal story. In the world of Maximalism, there’s no such thing as “too much” — only “not enough yet.” This is the decor that lets you fully reflect the vibrant, multi-faceted person you are.

Let’s look at a few elements that can enliven your space to Maximalism standards.

^^^ Go Bold or Go Home. While some styles whisper, Maximalism shouts from the rooftops with vivid hues. Don’t be shy about mixing bold prints, stacking books to the ceiling, or displaying quirky tchotchkes you've collected over the years — so long as there’s order and balance.

^^^ Mix and Match. Feel free to blend contrasting patterns, prints, and florals, letting the colors you love guide your choices. Layer on fabrics from velvet and chenille to tweed and faux fur. Mix sleek metallic elements and furniture with rich wooden decor or art.

^^^ Asymmetrical Gallery Walls. Want to dip your toes into the Maximalist pool? Start with a gallery wall that would make an art museum blush. Mix and match art genres, frame sizes, and styles, like an Ornate Wood Frame Profile 200 beside a sleek, modern Metal Profile 15.

^^^ Wallpaper Whimsy. Transform plain or solid walls into a playground of pattern. And why stop at one wall — your ceiling is begging to be a canvas. Anything goes with Maximalism.

^^^ Showcase Your Interests. Transform bookshelves, cabinets, shadow boxes, even tabletops into a tapestry of your passions and interests. Stack your favorite books (to the ceiling if you like) or that collection of hand-painted pottery you carefully chose while traveling around Italy.

Other Elements of Maximalism:

• Oversized sculptures or artwork
• Extravagant chandeliers
• Intricate tilework or rugs in bold patterns
• Varied fabrics in upholstery, pillows, and drapes
• Lacquered surfaces in a saturated color

Special note: While some designers frown on dialing down Maximalism, we believe you should do you. Go petal pink instead of fuchsia or autumn ochre instead of tangerine if you like a more serene scene — in a bedroom, for example. Wallpaper just the ceiling. Lay down light wood floors instead of multiple layered vintage rugs. You get the idea. We’re giving you the Maximalism rules with full permission to bend them.

Go Get the Look

Want to make sure Maximalism is the vibe for you? Start with a smaller room in your home and see how it goes. That way you won’t invest too much time and energy if “more” ends up being “too much.” That said, be prepared to be smitten as you venture into larger areas of your home with this exuberant style!

Last Updated August 8, 2024