Combining patterns, colours, textures and objects, maximalism celebrates all things bold. Could this trend transform a space in your home?
Though it’s been coming and going since the 17th century, maximalism is back – and it’s all about blending patterns, colours, textures and objects in a single space.
To some, the thought of curating your own maximalist space may seem daunting – where would you start, and how would you know when it’s too much?
Fear not; we have the answers, and it turns out that there are many ways to ease into this eclectic trend without going all the way.
Juliette Arrighi de Casanova, a Cape Town-based interior designer and master of maximalism, believes that maximalism and minimalism can, in fact, co-exist.
“For example, you can have a maximalist dining space and a pared-down lounge with key elements of both Japanese and Scandinavian interior design, as long as the layering is done stylishly and over a base that’s bold and considered,” she says.
“Neutrals and texture are good bases for both a maximalist and minimalist approach – you can use more product and decorating in one area and taper off in the less busy corners of a shared space in the home.”
Also read: Express Your Decor Style With Pastels
Layer slayer
Despite the literal meaning of the term, maximalism doesn’t require starting big. If you want to master this trend, you need to understand the art of layering. “Maximalism is all about making sense of the unmatched and co-ordinating opposites,” says Juliette.
“The key is to ground your collection of design elements in either a colour palette (hot or cool, busy or calm) or in a theme (traditional or modern, English country or island style) – and begin to layer on this foundation”.
You can start with just a few maximalist decor pieces – say, scatter cushion covers in bright colours and some contrasting textures sitting side-by-side on your couch. Just this simple (and affordable) addition will see you embracing the trend in no time – and with minimal effort involved.
“Maximalism is all about making sense of the unmatched and co-ordinating opposites.”
Another easy way to invite maximalism into your home without feeling overwhelmed is to select bed linen in bold colours and prints. Whether you max up your own bedroom or one for your guests, it’s an easy, quick and temporary nod to the trend. Take it one step further by adding more pillows than you need in contrasting colours and patterns.
And if you ever tire of the trend, you can simply pack the duvet covers and pillowcases away for when the maximalist bug bites again.
“Using pattern is the most readily available and affordable tool, from bed linen and throws, to basketry and accessories, to wallpapers and textiles,” agrees Juliette. “Pattern clashing is a simple and effective tool to create the maximalist look and feel. You can play with the scale of the patterns as well as their colours and themes.”
Top tip
Begin with a neutral palette and use bold large-scale motifs, then add pops of colour and smaller patterns.
Picking your pieces
Maximalism demands that we embrace everything in excess. It’s unapologetically bold – the opposite of minimalism. So, if you ever find yourself asking: ‘Is this too much?’, the answer is, ‘Probably not’.
“Maximalism is a trend that has no limitations,” says Juliette, “but steer clear of becoming tacky. Restraint is practiced in your selections.” But how do you draw the line between maximalist finesse and maximum fail?
It’s very simple: build your foundation one step at a time and make sure that all the building blocks are suited to the style you are hoping to end up with. “Consider the space you are working in – the building, light, mood and height. All these factors will inform the decisions you make,” advises Juliette.
“The maximalist’s aim is to achieve a sense of playfulness and warmth, while creating eye-catching vignettes and conversation starters. As long as everything is considered and balanced, you are winning.” Juliette recommends a bold colour palette of deep blues, greens and purples – but really anything goes, so play around with pops of red, yellow and orange.
Metallics will always deserve their moment in the spotlight; a classic way to incorporate them into your design is through pieces like candleholders, shapely vases, pot plant holders, statement mugs, vintage pieces, mirrors and decorative bowls.
In the kitchen, you can choose from a full spectrum of bold-coloured appliances, from kettles to ovens. Storage options can also add to your look – think quirky wine racks and woven baskets.
Your bathroom can also benefit from simple add-ons, such as playful towel hooks, mismatched holders for the handwash and hand cream or mirrors in odd shapes. Top it all off with bath towels in a variety of colours, sizes and textures.
Also read: How To Achieve Bohemian Decor
Words by: Shani Tsai
Photographs: Marguerite Oelofse
Interiors: Juuette Arrigh De Casanova, Juj Uving
