Maximalism is making a bold comeback, and it’s not just a trend—it’s a statement. After years of minimalism reigning supreme, where the mantra “less is more” dominated design, maximalism offers a breath of fresh air for those who love self-expression. Gen Z, in particular, is embracing this resurgence, bringing maximalism into their homes and lifestyles with a distinct flair. This new wave of maximalism encourages layering bold patterns, mixing textures, and embracing vibrant colors. It’s all about creating spaces that feel personal, eclectic, and unapologetically expressive.
Maximalism isn’t about clutter, though. It’s about curating a space that feels rich, full of life, and tells a story. While minimalism focuses on stripping back, maximalism is big on adding character and depth. Let’s dive into seven tips to help you embrace this resurgent trend in your home without feeling overwhelmed.
- Start with Bold Colors
Color is at the heart of maximalism. To truly embrace the maximalist vibe, it’s essential to move beyond neutral tones and introduce bold, vibrant colors into your home. Jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, and ruby red are popular in maximalist spaces, as they create a sense of luxury and warmth. You can also experiment with primary colors or pastels, depending on the feel you want for your space.
A great way to start is by choosing a strong color for your walls or incorporating bold furniture pieces in rich hues. If painting your walls feels like too much of a commitment, try bringing in colorful accessories like rugs, throw pillows, or art pieces. The key is to embrace color in a way that excites you and makes your space feel alive.
- Mix and Match Textures and Patterns
Maximalism thrives on variety, especially when it comes to textures and patterns. In a maximalist home, you’ll often see contrasting patterns like florals mixed with geometrics or stripes layered with animal prints. The goal is to create visual interest by combining elements that may not traditionally go together but work in harmony when thoughtfully arranged.
For example, if you’re updating your bathroom, you could consider mixing tiles of different patterns or adding textured elements during a shower replacement to elevate the design. This kind of mix-and-match approach adds depth and personality, making every room feel unique and dynamic.
When mixing patterns, start by choosing a base color palette that ties everything together. This will prevent the space from feeling chaotic. From there, have fun layering different textures, whether it’s velvet cushions, patterned wallpapers, or metallic accents.
- Layer Your Decor
Layering is one of the fundamental techniques in maximalist design. Instead of focusing on single statement pieces, maximalism encourages you to layer multiple elements, from furniture to accessories, to create a cohesive yet full look. The goal is to make your space feel curated like every piece has been carefully selected over time.
You can start layering by placing multiple rugs of different textures on top of one another or mixing throw pillows with varying patterns and fabrics. On your walls, consider layering art pieces of different sizes to create a gallery wall effect. The key to layering is balance—while you want to add depth, you don’t want the space to feel cluttered.
- Combine Old and New Pieces
One of the most fun aspects of maximalism is the freedom to combine vintage and modern pieces. This mix creates a layered, lived-in feel that adds character to your home. You can start by incorporating antiques, family heirlooms, or thrifted items alongside more modern or contemporary furniture. This blend of styles makes the space feel more authentic and less like a showroom.
For example, a modern velvet couch paired with a vintage coffee table or a collection of retro art on modern, minimalist shelving can make for a dynamic look. By mixing the old with the new, you create a home that feels timeless and unique, reflecting your personal taste and history.
- Don’t Be Afraid of Oversized Furniture
Maximalism loves oversized furniture that makes a statement. Whether it’s a large sectional sofa, an extravagant chandelier, or an oversized coffee table, bold furniture pieces can serve as focal points in the room. These larger items add a sense of grandeur and can transform a space from ordinary to dramatic.
However, it’s essential to maintain balance. If you’re adding oversized furniture, make sure the rest of the room complements it rather than competes with it. This will help the space feel harmonious rather than cluttered. The key is to choose one or two oversized pieces to anchor the room and build around them with complementary decor.
- Create a Gallery Wall
One of the easiest ways to bring maximalism into your home is by creating a gallery wall. This classic design feature allows you to display multiple pieces of art, photographs, or even personal memorabilia in one space. The beauty of a gallery wall in maximalism is that it doesn’t have to follow strict rules. You can mix different frame styles, art mediums, and sizes to create a visually dynamic arrangement.
Start by gathering a variety of artwork or prints that you love. Lay them out on the floor to experiment with different layouts before you start hanging them. You can arrange them symmetrically for a more organized look or create an eclectic, asymmetrical layout for a more relaxed feel. Gallery walls are a great way to bring a sense of personalization and creativity to any room, whether it’s a hallway, living room, or bedroom.
- Embrace Bold Wallpapers
Wallpaper has made a big comeback in interior design, and it’s a natural fit for maximalism. Bold, vibrant wallpapers with eye-catching patterns can instantly transform a room. Whether you prefer florals, abstract designs, or geometric patterns, wallpaper adds an extra layer of texture and interest to your space.
If you’re hesitant to wallpaper an entire room, consider starting with a statement wall. Choose a bold wallpaper design for one wall and paint the other walls in a complementary color. This allows you to embrace maximalism without overwhelming the space. In rooms like bathrooms or hallways, you can go even bolder by wallpapering the entire area for a dramatic effect. Wallpaper is a fun and easy way to infuse personality into your home and create a unique focal point.
Maximalism is back, and it’s the perfect design trend for those who love to express themselves through bold, eclectic, and vibrant decor. While minimalism focuses on simplicity, maximalism encourages you to fill your space with personality and creativity. From bold colors and patterns to oversized furniture and personalized collections, maximalism allows you to embrace “more is more” in a thoughtful and intentional way.
As Gen Z leads the charge in bringing maximalism back, this trend offers an exciting opportunity to design spaces that break free from traditional rules and reflect the individuality of the homeowner. Maximalism isn’t about clutter or chaos—it’s about creating a layered, curated environment where every piece has a purpose and contributes to the overall design. So, if you’re ready to embrace this resurgent trend, don’t be afraid to go bold and create a home that’s as unique and vibrant as you are.
