Maximalist decor style and interior design

Say YES to more is more! Maximalism is a celebration of bold expression and individuality. These vibrant spaces show off the pinnacle of lively design. They blend patterns, colors, textures, and objects into an energetic, eclectic style. So, what do you need to achieve a maximalist interior design? Read on as we look at what top designers are doing! 

What is maximalist interior design?

Maximalist eclectic décor in a classic interior by Atif N
Maximalist eclectic décor in a classic interior by Decorilla designer, Atif N.

Maximalist interior design embraces abundant color, pattern, texture, and decorative elements. Though it’s resurfaced recently, maximalist design has been around for decades. It first gained popularity in the 1980s to oppose the prominent minimalist movement. 

Wondering if maximalist interior design fits your home? Then try our Free Interior Design Style Quiz to find your true style!

Eclectic maximalist interior design by Sierra G
Eclectic maximalist interior design by Decorilla designer, Sierra G.

Maximalist eclectic interior design is regaining adoration because of our need for self-expression and uniqueness. In a simplistic and minimalist world, maximalism is a refreshing change. It allows people to showcase their personalities and interests through their homes. It creates spaces that are bold, expressive, and full of character – just like those who dwell within them.

Eclectic Maximalist Interior Design Characteristics 

Modern maximalist interior design by Deidre B
Modern maximalist interior design by Decorilla designer, Deidre B.

Maximalist style interior design leans on the concept of organized chaos. It proudly displays all your favorite things together in one space. If minimalism is based on less is more, maximalism is the complete opposite. In essence, it is a daring statement of oneself. Browse through some key maximalist trends to pick up design ideas for your home. But in the meantime, let’s unpack the elements of maximalism. 

Bold Colors 

Maximalist interiors by Jacqueline M
Maximalist living room by Decorilla interior designer, Jacqueline M.

Here the old maxim rings true – go bold or go home! Maximalist interior design demands daring, loud colors. And it demands a lot of them. Plush greens often offset bright pinks, while royal blues create a striking background for eye-catching yellows. 

Mixed Patterns 

Maximalist style interior design by Casey H
Mixed maximalist style interior design by Decorilla designer, Casey H.

Eclectic maximalist interior design requires a mix of interesting shapes and patterns. Contrasts like animal print, geometric shapes, or florals should be paired. This creates an arresting effect and allows the eye to flow through the room. 

Contrasting Textures

Maximalist decor style by Ibrahim H
Opulent maximalist decor style by Decorilla designer, Ibrahim H.

Contrasting textures play a crucial role in creating a rich and stimulating space. Thinks plush velvet upholstery to rough-hewn wood finishes. After all, maximalist spaces celebrate the beauty of diversity and variety. For example, a cozy velvet sofa can be paired with a rugged leather chair. A shiny metal accent table can add a touch of glamor to a rustic wooden coffee table. 

10 Best Ideas for Maximalist Interiors 

Modern maximalist interior design by Drew F
Desert modern maximalist interior design by Decorilla designer, Drew F.

Overall, maximalist interiors thrive on an eclectic mix of décor and textures. This results in a space that is both daring and inviting. Here are a few practical ideas to help you achieve the covetable look. 

1. Include Ornate Accents

Maximalist style interior design by Aida A
Classic, maximalist style interior design by Decorilla designer, Aida A.

Thrift shops and antique stores are a treasure chest for decorating maximalist interiors. Vintage brasses, coppers, golds, and silvers are perfect for those added-interest pieces. Plus, furniture can be touched up with intriguing details. You can also hang antique chandeliers or dramatic lamps to soften room corners. 

2. Layer Tactile Fabrics 

Maximalist interiors by Aida A and Aimee M
Maximalist interiors by Decorilla designers, Aida A. and Aimee M.

Why leave a sofa bare? Piled-up patterned blankets and throws achieve the modern maximalist interior design. Again, contrasting patterns and colors can create an awe-inspiring effect. Balance throws with floor coverings and fluffy carpets to differentiate textures. 

3. Focus on Statement Pieces 

Maximalist interior decor style by Casey H
Retro maximalist interior decor style by Decorilla designer, Casey H.

One statement piece can organize the chaos of patterns and colors. In fact, maximalist interior design doesn’t mean endless, dizzying elements. Instead, it can be crafted to align with a centerpiece for the room. 

4. Install Boastful Wallpapers

Eclectic maximalist interior design by Jamie C
Eclectic maximalist interior design by Decorilla

Eclectic maximalist interior design swaps out monotone walls for over-the-top wallpapers. The more design, the better. Colors, patterns, and statement pieces on the walls are the basis for the rest of the room’s design. 

5. Match Art Elements 

Maximalist style home decor by Casey H
Modern maximalist style decor in a lounge by Decorilla designer, Casey H.

Let a large, oversized painting be the star of your design. Other elements in the room can be cleverly chosen to align with the statement piece. Match splashes of colors and let ornate pieces can feed into the central eye-catching element. 

6. Splurge with Graphic Prints & Artwork 

Maximalist interior designers - Jamie M
Maximalist eclectic decor in a dining room by Decorilla designer, Jamie C.

Flood walls with art for a maximalist decor style. Keep in mind, mix and match frames offset each other. Different-sized graphic prints create an eclectic flow on the walls. The art itself should also vary from one to the other. Plus, colors, styles, and themes can vary from one piece to another. 

7. Add Framed Mirrors

Maximalist eclectic décor style by Casey H
Maximalist eclectic décor style by Decorilla designer, Casey H.

Spice up your walls with mirrors between your art. Besides, round, square, or shaped mirrors can create a necessary contrast between art pieces. Moreover, practical maximalist interiors often feature bold mirror frames. Match them with some of the ornate pieces found across the room to create a harmonious look. 

8. Accentuate with Golds, Bronzes & Coppers

Modern maximalist interior design by Aimee M
Moody interior with a modern maximalist design by Decorilla designer, Aimee M.

Create a beautiful contrast by hanging bold gold or bronze frames against wild wallpaper patterns. These accents can also be scattered around the room to balance vibrant colors and motifs. They can be subtle, like hardware finishes and furniture legs, or bold, like a bronze coffee table or copper chandelier. 

9. Blend Styles in Maximalist Interiors

Maximalist decor style in a open living and dining room by Raneem K
Eclectic maximalist interior design by Decorilla designer, Raneem K.

Why stick with one style? Eclectic maximalist interior design lets you take inspiration from anywhere. You can then combine what you love and create something fascinating and new. Art Deco, 70’s glam, and Hollywood glitz can all feature! Steampunk has also gained popularity in the last few years and is an excellent addition to the style. 

10. Create a Jungle of Plants 

Modern maximalist interior design by Casey H
Modern maximalist interior design by Decorilla designer, Casey H.

Lots and lots of plants help achieve an eclectic maximalist interior design. Think monsteras, tall fiddle leaf plants, hanging strings of beads. If art, fabrics, or colors do not occupy a corner of the room, it should have a plant. The beauty of plants is that you can carefully place them to make the most of your space. Plus, they can be big or small and stand or hang from the ceiling!  

Curating Maximalist Interior Designs for Each Room 

Modern maximalist interior design by Kristina B
Studio with a modern maximalist interior design by Decorilla designer, Kristina B.

Now that we have covered the essential elements of maximalist interiors, it is time to look at each room in detail. What makes up a maximalist bedroom? What basic features can be added to a living room? And, can a bathroom be maximalist? Let’s find out! 

The Statement Living Room 

Maximalist eclectic décor by Sierra G
Lounge with maximalist eclectic décor by Decorilla designer, Sierra G.

The living room is where maximalist interior designers show off their skills. Living rooms can be a canvas of art and wow visitors who spend time taking in the various pieces and artwork. So be sure to hang your favorite painting in the living room – here, they’ll get the biggest spotlight and the most gazes. 

Moreover, you can prominently display spectacular or collector’s pieces throughout the room. Think plush sofas, and patterned throws, against a background of patterned wallpaper. 

The Luxurious Maximalist Bedroom Interior

Retro maximalist interior design by Casey H
Retro maximalist bedroom interior design by Decorilla designer, Casey H.

Maximalist eclectic decor is ideal for a bedroom. A dramatic four-poster bed, strewn with fabrics and throws, is a more-is-more dream. Add in a plethora of pillows and materials to achieve the look. 

Let the bed be the centerpiece of the room. But, to mix things up, add an eclectic chest of draws, a statement mirror, or wild art to round off the look. You can also mismatch lamps to create a captivating interior. 

The Opulent Bathroom

Maximalist bathroom décor style by Lauren O
Maximalist bathroom décor style by Decorilla designer, Lauren O.

maximalist bathroom allows an interior designer to play around with mirrors, frames, and deep, rich colors. Savvy use of colors and patterns also goes a long way. For instance, rich peacock walls can make the gold, copper, or brass of mirrors or fixtures pop. The wilder and more experimental, the better! 

The Maximalist Kitchen 

Maximalist kitchen interior design by Liana S
Maximalist kitchen interior design by Decorilla designer, Liana S.

A kitchen can be maximalist too! Make the most of glass cabinets to display bright crockery. And hang up an oversized artwork for great impact. You can also create cozy kitchen nooks with cushions and bright fabrics. Moreover, cabinets and surfaces can be bright, boasting exciting colors. Plus, a pop of an occasional chair can create that balance a maximalist style needs. 

Need help with your maximalist interiors?

Put your maximalist ideas together with vetted interior design help. Schedule a Free Interior Design Consultation to see your space come alive! 

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