Maximalist Interior Design
More is more—bold, layered, and unapologetically expressive
Maximalism celebrates abundance, pattern, color, and personality. It's the deliberate rejection of minimalist restraint in favor of curated excess. Maximalist spaces are layered, collected, and deeply personal—every surface tells a story, every corner invites exploration.
Key Characteristics
While maximalism has always existed as the counterpoint to minimalism, it gained momentum as a named movement in the 2010s. Designers like Kelly Wearstler and Martyn Lawrence Bullard championed rooms that embraced pattern, texture, and collected abundance, offering an alternative to the prevailing neutral aesthetic.
- Bold, saturated colors
- Fearless pattern mixing
- Layered textures
- Curated collections on display
- Gallery walls
- Abundant textiles
- Personal expression
- Deliberate visual abundance
Color Palette
Accent Colors
Colors to Avoid
Materials & Textures
Key Materials
- Velvet in all colors
- Bold printed fabrics
- Lacquered surfaces
- Mixed metals
- Textured wallpapers
- Layered rugs
- Natural curiosities
Patterns
- Florals
- Geometrics
- Animal prints
- Ethnic patterns
- All of the above together
Textures
- Plush velvet
- Fringed textiles
- Layered rugs
- Tactile fabrics
- Mixed finishes
Furniture & Decor
Signature Furniture
- Velvet sofa in bold color
- Vintage or antique mixed pieces
- Statement chairs
- Eclectic coffee table
- Bold upholstered bed
- Collected bookshelves
Decor Elements
- Gallery walls covering entire walls
- Collections displayed abundantly
- Stacks of books
- Plants in every corner
- Sculptural objects
- Personal mementos
Lighting Style
Eclectic fixtures, vintage pieces, colorful lamps, multiple sources, layered ambiance
Best Rooms for Maximalist Style
Explore how Maximalist style works in different rooms with tailored tips and AI prompts.
Space & Budget Guidance
Small Spaces
Maximalism can make small spaces feel exciting rather than cramped. Gallery walls draw the eye up, layered rugs add richness, and bold color creates character. Embrace the coziness and make every surface interesting.
Large Spaces
Large maximalist spaces become immersive environments. Create multiple vignettes, hang salon-style galleries, mix seating groups, and let abundance fill the volume with personality and story.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Maximalism suits collectors on any budget. Thrift stores, estate sales, flea markets, and family hand-me-downs fill maximalist spaces authentically. DIY gallery walls, layer affordable textiles, and display what you already love.
Luxury Approach
Work with designers who specialize in collected interiors. Source museum-quality art and antiques, commission custom pieces, and invest in premium textiles and wallpapers. The best maximalist rooms evolve over years.
Related Styles
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Frequently Asked Questions
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