How to embrace maximalist interior design

Calling all maximalists at heart, it is time to have some fun with interiors trend this spring. There are various ways to bring it into your home, too. From embracing colours, layering patterns, adding rich textures, and incorporating a range of lighting types, this style will enrich your living space.

Think statement photo walls in the hall, chandeliers in the bathroom, and a vibrant blend of rugs and copious amounts of mixed-material cushions in the living room, complete with tassels, and frills to give that ultra-sumptuous feel.

Popping with colour and self-expression it's a decadent aesthetic—hop over the channel and just take Parisian hotel Les Deux Gares as an example of contemporary colour compositions. Closer to home there's restaurant Berners Tavern in London, with its statement picture walls, Castle of Trematon in Cornwall, and Rutland’s Hambleton Hall for a heritage feel.

To give us the lowdown on this trend is fellow maximalist, Vix Brenninkmeijer, a radio presenter and interior stylist who doesn’t shy away from decadent interior design. 

Maximalism in interior design has a rich history that emerged as a response to the minimalist movement of the mid-20th century. While minimalism champions simplicity and clean lines, maximalism embraces opulence, bold patterns, and an abundance of decor. Interior designer Martin Brudnizki's maximalist design style blends opulence and eclecticism. Designers Kit Kemp and Abigail Ahern are also advocates of maximalism and encourage a mix of styles, textures and colours for visually striking interiors.

Our homes should reflect who we are and what we love, a tapestry weaving a vibrant story of individuality and joy. Let this trend for maximalism inspire your interiors so they blossom into spaces that radiate warmth and reflect the personalities of everyone in the house.

Maximalism breathes life into often-overlooked hallways, turning them into galleries with eclectic art collections, vibrant wall coverings, and strategically placed mirrors that amplify visual impact.

Clusters of mirrors also work in varying shapes with differing frame styles. Textured rugs and an upholstered bench add to the general sumptuous feel of a space that could otherwise be a boring thoroughfare.

In the living room, maximalism unfolds with a myriad of textures—plush rugs, velvet upholstery, your favourite mementoes framed and on display with books piled high—all artfully arranged inviting touch and tactile engagement.

Layer colours and patterns to create a dynamic and cosy atmosphere which is all about individuality and comfort. 

Breaking free from regular kitchen aesthetics, maximalism invigorates kitchens with mixed materials, vibrantly coloured cabinets and statement lighting. This trend transforms culinary spaces into exciting and inspiring environments. Add intrigue by using unexpected kitchen lighting options—table lamps work well. Washable rugs add essential texture and colour. 

The trick is to curate carefully as you add layers of intrigue to your home, so it is utterly infused with the personalities of those who live in the house to great visual effect. Keep the look coherent by sticking within a tight colour palette so you can mix patterns and textures of the same hue without causing visual overload.

As an interior stylist, I encourage you to get the best from your home and the possessions you already have by displaying what you love most. This will spark joy everywhere you look, and this concept is at the heart of maximalism. Your home should be a celebration of all you are.

Imagine wearing a kaftan and a bejewelled turban; in which environment would this outfit belong?! In a bedroom, ideally with a chaise longue.

Dramatic headboards, fringed lamps, in fact, an assortment of different lighting to create mood and layers of pillows and bedding in luxurious fabrics. Witness how exuberant patterns and mixed furniture styles contribute to a feeling of decadence.

Challenge the conventional simplicity and clean lines associated with traditional bathroom design and use opulent wallpapers—you can get waterproof ones—mosaic tiles and ornate fixtures.

Explore how bold colours and intricate patterns transform your space into a luxurious retreat. A pendant light or, better still, a chandelier adds a decadent twist to the obvious bathroom aesthetic and makes for an unexpected and exciting experience.