Maximalist is all about embracing vibrant colors, bold patterns, and eclectic decor.
This decorating style is the opposite of minimalism and is meant to fill a space with ornate furnishings and abundant accessories.
Maximalism celebrates individuality and self-expression through interior design.
If you’re looking to unleash a bold, vibrant style in your home, maximalism is the way to go.
In this article, we’ll explore 13 maximalist decor ideas to help you create a stylish and unique living space.
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Mix and Match Patterns and Textures
One of the hallmarks of maximalist decor is a bold mix of patterns and textures.
While minimalists may gravitate toward plain white walls and neutral furniture, maximalists layer on the patterns for visual interest.
When mixing various prints and textures, the key is to choose a color palette and stick to it.
You can mix stripes, florals, geometrics and more as long as they share consistent colors.
An alternative option is to have each pattern contain a touch of the same color to create cohesion.
Start by picking a statement pattern, like an Oriental rug or vibrant wallpaper, as the focus of the room.
Accent with smaller-scale patterns in pillows, throws and accessories.
You can also bring in different textures with velvet upholstery, faux fur pillows and wooden accents.
Maximalists will often combine slick finishes like polished metal with organic textures like jute and rattan.
The blend of patterns and textures adds depth and dimension for an inviting, layered look.
When mixing and matching patterns, pay attention to scale.
Very large and very small patterns can clash, so aim for a mix of medium and small-scale prints.
As you add layers of pattern and texture, step back periodically to ensure the overall look is cohesive.
It’s easy to go overboard with maximalism, so edit pieces out if the room starts to feel too busy.
Maximalism is all about boldness, but you still want the patterns and textures to complement each other.
Some examples of pattern and texture mixing include:
- Pairing a Persian rug with velvet chairs and cashmere throw pillows
- Stripe walls with floral curtains and rattan furniture
- A damask sofa mixed with faux fur pillows in contrasting prints
- Geometric artwork over a leather sofa mixed with bamboo side tables
The blend of patterns and textures makes a space feel curated, bold and uniquely you.
Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and mix the old with the new or even clash different aesthetics like modern and bohemian.
Piling on the visual interest is what maximalism is all about!
Incorporate Vibrant Colors
Color is an essential element of maximalist decor.
While minimalists stick to muted, neutral palettes, maximalists embrace vibrant, saturated color schemes.
Do not be afraid to use bold, dramatic colors like emerald green, sapphire blue and eggplant purple.
Mixing colors that have contrast adds vibrancy and excitement to a space.
When using vibrant colors, it helps to pick one dominant shade as an anchor.
The accent pieces can incorporate a mix of contrasting colors for visual interest.
You also want to ensure the furniture and fabrics you choose are richly colored and deeply pigmented.
Soft pastels do not have enough presence to stand out in a maximalist space.
Some vibrant color combinations to try include:
- Navy blue with touches of canary yellow and crimson red
- Deep magenta mixed with teal and chartreuse green
- Eggplant and mustard yellow with pops of ruby red
- Emerald green as the anchor with accents of sapphire blue and persimmon orange
You can paint the walls a dramatic color or pick vibrant hues for your furniture and decor items.
Using a deep color on a large statement piece like a sofa or armchair is a great way to bring in bold color.
Mix in contrasting colors through artwork, pillows, throws and accessories for additional pops of color.
When working with vibrant colors, aim for a balanced mix.
You do not want one color to overwhelm the others in the palette.
Adding in metallic and black and white patterns helps tone down the vibrancy while still allowing the dramatic colors to shine.
If you have a vibrant rug or wallpaper as the statement piece, choose more neutral furniture and then accessorize with eye-catching colors.
Do not be afraid to use color to create an exciting, bold interior.
Pay attention to hue, saturation and brightness and choose colors that truly pop.
The maximalist aesthetic thrives on dramatic color combinations so pick vibrant shades that make you happy!
Incorporate Metallic and Shimmer
A touch of shine goes a long way in maximalist decor.
Metallic accents and shimmering finishes add glamour and luxury to a space.
Using metals, mirrored furniture and sparkling accessories makes the decor feel bold and decadent.
When decorating with metallics, a little goes a long way.
You do not want the space to feel overly opulent.
Start by picking one or two statement metallics as anchors, like a silver velvet sofa or gold accent table.
Then mix in smaller metallic details throughout the space such as candleholders, vases, throw pillows and artwork.
Some ways to incorporate metallics include:
- A glass coffee table or mirrored side table adds instant glamour.
- Metallic throw pillows in silver, gold and bronze make a sofa shine.
- Mercury glass vases, lanterns and candleholders add shimmer.
- Gold-framed artwork instantly elevates a room.
- Woven baskets in silver, copper or gold provide natural metallic texture.
- A statement light fixture in an aged brass or chrome provides the wow-factor.
- Accessorize with sculptural metallic objets d’art.
When choosing your metals and shimmery finishes, opt for a mix rather than matching.
For example, pair champagne gold with antique silver and rose gold for visual interest.
You can also blend metallic finishes with natural elements like wood accents and potted plants to create balance.
If using metallic paint on walls, stick to one accent wall to avoid looking too flashy.
Soft champagne gold or light silver paint adds subtle glamour versus a high-gloss metal finish that may overwhelm.
Small mirrored accents blended throughout a space make a room feel brighter and larger while adding a touch of shine.
Just avoid placing mirrors opposite each other, which can create a disorienting effect.
Incorporating metallics and shimmer is an easy way to create a glamorous maximalist decor style.
Just remember that restraint is important when using reflective and high-shine pieces.
The goal is bold but balanced dazzle.
Metallic accents allow you to unleash drama without going over-the-top.
Use Large-Scale Wallpaper
One of the fastest ways to create a maximalist look is with bold, large-scale wallpaper.
Wallpaper allows you to unleash drama through color, pattern and visual texture.
Maximalists embrace wallpaper and use it liberally to turn walls into a work of art.
When selecting wallpaper, consider asking yourself the following questions:
- What feeling are you trying to evoke – playful, elegant, moody?
This will help guide your print and color choice.
- Do you want a modern graphic print or a traditional damask?
Botanical prints are perennially popular for their natural beauty.
- Solid colors or vibrant patterns?
Choose patterns for more personality.
- What scale suits the room?
Bigger spaces can handle very large-scale prints.
Smaller rooms look best with mid-sized patterns.
- Some popular maximalist wallpaper styles include:
- Chinoiserie – These ornate Asian-inspired motifs create an exotic feel.
Trending choices include large-scale blue and white patterns.
- Wild Walls – For the adventurous maximalist, cover walls in tropical leaf prints or bold animal prints like zebra stripes or leopard spots.
- Mural Wallpaper – These panoramic photographs turn your wall into a landscape mural for visual drama.
Choose epic mountain vistas or starry night skies.
- Geometric Patterns – From hexagons to chevron stripes, bold geometric prints make a strong style statement.
- Outsized Florals – Big blooms in vibrant colors add energy and a touch of whimsy.
- Art Deco – The iconic style of the 1920s and 30s comes through in graphic black and white patterns, stylized florals and sweeping curves.
Pick wallpaper patterns and colors that excite you and capture your personality.
Maximalists gravitate toward bold colors and prints that make a statement versus blending into the background.
Be adventurous with your wallpaper selections.
When installing wallpaper, consider doing a full wall for maximum drama.
To make the room feel less busy, paint the other walls in a coordinating solid color.
You can also do an accent wall behind a bed, sofa or dining room buffet.
No matter which wall you choose, bold wallpaper allows you to unleash your maximalist style.
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Create Gallery Walls
Gallery walls provide the perfect opportunity to embrace maximalism.
Clustering framed artwork, posters, photographs and mementos together unleashes self-expression.
Gallery walls allow you to display your loves and interests through a collage-like arrangement.
When planning your gallery wall, first determine what shapes and sizes of frames you want to include.
Mixing widths, heights and frame styles prevents the arrangement from feeling too rigid.
Square and rectangular frames work well combined.
For extra interest, add in oval frames or round mirrors.
Having some common color tones or frame finishes will create cohesion among eclectic pieces.
Next, lay out the arrangement before hanging to achieve visual balance.
A packed, salon-style gallery wall filled edge to edge with frames embodies maximalism.
But you can also opt for a more structured grid or asymmetrical configuration.
Lay pieces out until you are happy with how the sizes, colors and subjects flow together.
Some tips for maximalist gallery walls:
- Incorporate meaningful travel souvenirs, like maps of visited countries.
- Choose frames in glossy lacquer colors to add vibrancy.
- Fill frames with fabric scraps, wallpaper samples or song lyrics to personalize.
- Collect eclectic art and photography in thrift stores to add uniqueness.
- Cluster family photos and kids’ artwork for a sentimental style.
- Mix in bold graphic art prints for visual punch.
- Add dimensional interest with shadow boxes, 3D artwork or protruding frames.
- Include mirrors to reflect light and add shimmer.
- Arrange framed quotes or mantras that inspire you.
Maximalist gallery walls tell a visual story.
They should feel jam-packed with treasures that have personal meaning to you.
Do not be afraid of combining mismatching styles and sizes.
The bolder and more abundant, the better!
Displaying your memories, interests and collections through fragmented vignettes is the maximalist way.
Showcase Collections and Curios
Maximalists revel in displaying their favorite collections.
Showcasing meaningful objects, curiosities and one-of-a-kind finds allows personalities to shine.
When deciding what to collect and display, pick items that spark joy and represent your passions.
Some maximalist-friendly collections include:
- Vintage books grouped by color or subject
- Stacks of decorative boxes in metallic hues
- Marine ephemera like shells, coral and sand dollars for beach lovers
- Enamel pins displayed in rows for pop culture fans
- Colorful glassware like vases, decanters and paperweights
- -Vintage maps and globes for travel buffs
- -Covered bowls filled with decorative eggs or balls
- Framed insects, feathers or pressed flowers for nature enthusiasts
- Display cases showing off sports memorabilia, action figures or dolls
Edit down collections to your very favorite pieces for the biggest impact.
Quality over quantity is best for display.
Arrange collections in vignettes around a room.
For example, float glassware pieces over a bar cart or stack decorative boxes on a console.
Some tips for showcasing collections:
- Use acrylic risers to elevate and highlight special pieces.
- Stagger items at varying heights for dimension.
- Group similar items together in uneven numbers.
- Incorporate decorative boxes, baskets or trays for organization.
- Attach shallow shelves or ledges on walls to hold collections.
- Place framed vintage posters and signage around a theme.
- Add customized lighting like sconces to spotlight your treasures.
Take time styling your collections and curios for display.
Maximalists thoughtfully curate vignettes that complement surrounding decor.
Make sure prized possessions are safe from kids and pets if displaying fragile objects.
Always restrain collections to your most beloved items for an edited maximalist look.
Showcasing personal passions in an artful way is the heart of maximalism.
Choose an Ornate Bed
The bed serves as the central focal point in bedrooms.
As a result, maximalists gravitate toward beds that act as statement pieces.
Ornate, canopied beds upholstered in vibrant colors and textures help create an exciting, inviting bedroom.
Iron or wood four-poster beds allow you to hang bold patterned curtains that envelope the space in visual texture.
Choose canopy fabrics that complement your bedding like lush velvets or vivid silks.
Drawing the curtains creates a cozy, secluded retreat within your bedroom.
For a more modern take, upholster the bed frame itself in showstopping fabric.
Vivid florals, dynamic geometrics and textured fabrics like chenille or velvet make the bed a work of art.
Finish with piles of patterned and textured pillows in contrasting prints.
If you prefer wood beds, choose carved frames for ornate detailing.
Paint the bed a lacquered color like sapphire blue, emerald green or eggplant purple for serious drama.
Whitewash or gild painted accents turn the bed into the room’s jewel.
Pile on sumptuous bedding and plush throws in coordinating colors.
Some more maximalist bed ideas:
- Upholster the headboard in an eye-catching metallic or pearlescent fabric.
- Frame the bed with vividly colored curtains that puddle onto the floor.
- Opt for an exotic-looking bamboo or rattan bed for natural texture.
- Hang a painted macrame headboard in vibrant colors.
- Choose an embossed leather headboard in a bold hue like ruby red.
- Add a mirrored headboard for instant glamour.
- Showcase collections like artwork above the bed rather than just on side walls.
Your bed sets the tone for the entire bedroom.
Maximalists create lavish sanctuaries with beds that feel like the room’s focal point.
Do not be afraid to layer on texture, shine, pattern and color.
The ornate details combined with plush bedding result in a welcoming sleep space.
Your bed should feel decadent, expressive and uniquely you.
Incorporate Eclectic Lighting
Statement lighting takes any room from simple to spectacular.
Maximalists decorate with dazzling fixtures that become sculptural works of art.
Seeking out unique, eclectic lighting allows you to add a touch of avant-garde style.
Search antique stores and flea markets for imaginative vintage finds.
Reimagined industrial lamps, fringed boudoir lamps and Art Deco sconces pack visual texture.
Mixing those classic pieces with modern colorful pendants and marquee letter lights creates exciting contrast.
Some eclectic sources for maximalist lighting include:
- Shop handmade pieces on Etsy for one-of-a-kind personality.
Talented artisans create lighting from materials like wood, wicker, antlers, metal and stained glass.
- Look for deals on vintage lighting from past eras.
A disco ball, beaded chandelier or clawfoot lamp adds throwback character.
- String festive holiday lights year-round for a whimsical accent.
Opt for bold colors like fuchsia or azure rather than plain white.
- Add sculptural nature-inspired lamps featuring antlers, driftwood or hand-shaped ceramic bases.
- Display artful table lamps with printed lampshades or brightly colored bases for artistic flair.
- Incorporate unique candleholders like gilded birdcages, geometric terrariums or gleaming silver candelabras.
- Use smart bulbs to program colorful, dynamic lighting effects.
Set scenes like “Reading Mode” or “Dinner Party.”
When choosing maximalist lighting, scale is key.
In general, the bigger the light fixture, the better.
Oversized ceiling fixtures make a dramatic style statement.
Just make sure to tailor fixture sizes to the room.
An intimate seating nook calls for a dainty pendant versus a cavernous great room fitted for a chandelier.
Creating an intriguing ambiance with lighting is pure maximalism.
Seek out conversation-starting vintage finds, customize fixtures with bold lampshades, or add sculptural lamps.
Your lighting choices should be as dynamic and distinctive as you are!
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Incorporate Natural Elements
While maximalist decor leans bold, bringing in natural elements provides welcome contrast.
Flowers, plants, wood accents and organic textures prevent spaces from feeling too loud.
Weaving in earthy pieces creates serene balance.
Greenery is a must for any maximalist space.
Choose statement-making botanicals like twisting snake plants, overflowing peperomia or tropical palm fronds.
Gather smaller potted succulents and cacti on tabletops to create mini indoor gardens.
Dotting homes with living plants enhances energy and life.
Some more ways to infuse nature include:
- Working organic wood pieces into furniture choices like mango wood dining tables or acacia wood shelves.
- Selecting tactile rattan, woven banana leaf, macrame and jute for lighting, rugs, baskets and accents.
- Adding dried botanicals such as eucalyptus garlands, pampas grass and floral wreaths.
- Displaying washed agate slices, geode bookends and seashells to add earthy texture.
- Choosing an abstract painting of ocean waves or a photographic forest mural for artwork.
- Incorporating ceramic vases and planters glazed in mineral blue and mossy green hues.
- Pairing linen, cotton and silk textiles with cozy textures like sheepskins and rattan seating.
When designing your space, look for ways to blend these organic elements with vivid colors, daring patterns and metallic sheens.
The balance of natural and bold creates a livable maximalist interior.
Strategically place houseplants in corners that need softening or add organic rugs to temper shiny surfaces.
Small touches like a woven fruit bowl, stone coaster or rattan mirror make a big impact.
Natural textures feel grounding and ensure that the overall aesthetic does not skew too flamboyant.
Blending indoor gardening with your favorite bold prints and colors results in a maximalist look with staying power.
Surrounding yourself with nature’s beauty helps create a soulful home filled with life and harmony.
Mix High and Low Furniture
The mix of high-end and low-brow furniture is a hallmark of maximalist decor.
Combining luxurious investment pieces with flea market finds and family heirlooms makes a space feel collected and curated.
The blend of new and old, refined and rustic, flashy and timeworn creates eclectic rooms brimming with character.
When sourcing furniture, look for interesting silhouettes and profiles versus safe, matching pieces.
Sculptural furniture with artistic flair suits maximalist sensibilities.
You also want a variety of lines and shapes.
Avoid a room full of low rectangular coffee tables and instead pick a couple boldly shaped accent tables.
Some high and low furniture mixing ideas include:
- An ornate gilded console juxtaposed with a marble-topped, cast iron flea market table creates captivating contrast.
- Pair antique dining chairs upholstered in vibrant velvet around a reclaimed wood table marked with nicks and scratches from past lives.
- Top a lucite side table with stacks of leather-bound classic books and a decorative objet trouvé from a local artisan.
- Float refined lounge chairs covered in exotic animal prints over a distressed Persian rug layered on top of wall-to-wall carpeting.
- Combine glossy lacquered cabinets with glass-front cabinets showcasing collectibles and curios for visual interest.
- Place a boldly colored sculptural floor lamp next to a comfortably worn leather armchair handed down from grandparents.
Every room should house a blend of new and old, fancy and flawed.
Fill spaces with conversational pieces that have tales to tell.
Seek out furniture reflective of different style eras or cultures.
The mix feels curated versus cookie-cutter.
Splurge on forever furniture pieces like sofas in vibrant hues.
Then offset those big buys with DIY projects, budget home store scores and family relics flaunting nicks, scratches and stains.
Furniture with beauty marks and quirky shapes infuses rooms with soul.
Their imperfections make spaces feel authentic, collected over time versus decorated.
The combo of refined and rustic finishes maximalism’s signature look.
Embrace Grandmillenial Style
The recent interior design trend of Grandmillenial style perfectly fits the maximalist aesthetic.
Grandmillenial decor is all about embracing nostalgic furnishings from past eras blended with statement-making antiques.
This eclectic look combines vintage charm with youthful exuberance.
Some elements of Grandmillenial style include:
- Decor in soft, feminine hues like blush pinks, minty greens and buttery yellows.
Metallics like champagne gold inject some glitz.
- Victorian-inspired furniture like tufted settees, fainting couches and ornate wooden beds.
- Vintage textiles like lace tablecloths, embroidered pillows, velvet chaise lounges and floral upholstery.
- China cabinets and dresser drawers displaying treasured dishware collections and dainty accessories.
- Aged Persian rugs layered over hardwood floors for cozy, traditional charm.
- Thoughtfully displayed framed family photos, pressed botanicals and antique glassware.
- Collections of classic novels, leather-bound books and vintage reading lamps for a study.
- Cottagecore touches like flowers, rattan furniture and ceramic birds mixed in for a whimsical feel.
This nostalgic throwback style allows you to curate rooms that feel fanciful and collected.
Seek out furnishings passed down or sourced from secondhand and antique shops.
Furniture with heritage, character and craftsmanship is the heart of this look.
At the same time, you can weave in modern and edgy elements.
Display your cherished antiques against boldly painted or wallpapered walls for contrast.
Add in colorful abstract art, geometric prints and vibrant lighting fixtures for an eclectic twist.
Grandmillenial style is all about blending feminine charm with bold maximalist self-expression.
Cultivate cozy corners filled with treasures from the past.
Then weave in contemporary accents for the best of both worlds.
This mix creates a youthful nostalgia that feels both familiar and fresh.
Make a Bold Entry
They say first impressions matter and that is especially true when designing a maximalist home.
The entryway sets the tone for the decor found beyond.
Maximalists use front doors and foyers as an opportunity to unleash bold style right from the start.
Give your front door serious curb appeal with a vibrant, saturated hue like crimson red, peacock blue or marigold yellow.
Opt for a glossy lacquered finish to really make it pop.
Surround your front door with striking landscaping like ornamental grasses and sculptural topiaries.
Inside, lay a graphic floor runner or decadent rug at the entry.
Choose woven textures, dynamic patterns and rich colors to immediately immerse guests.
Hang a statement mirror, vibrant artwork or an oversized clock to add visual interest.
Design a place to drop keys and umbrellas to add function to your foyer.
Choose a unique console table in an iron frame, modern bouclé fabric or retro silhouette.
Then accessorize with sculptural objets d’art, piles of design books and quirky accent pieces.
Some more entryway ideas:
- Wallpaper the walls or paint an accent wall in a dark, saturated hue like emerald green or navy blue.
- Outfit the space with extra seating like an upholstered bench or velvet chair for removing shoes.
- Add personalized details such as family photos, your own artwork or collections of shells, stones and geodes.
- Incorporate loads of lighting like beaded pendants, antique lamps and sculptural sconces.
Your entryway sets the tone for your maximalist home.
Guests will instantly understand your bold design sensibilities.
You may choose to carry a vibrant color or eclectic accessory motif throughout the rest of your home’s decor.
Designing a beautiful entryway filled with eye-catching details is a fun maximalist opportunity.
Embrace your inner exuberance by unleashing a dynamic, statement-making style right from the start.
Your entryway is a chance to express your essence through color, pattern, texture and light.
Welcome guests to the boldly beautiful world of your maximalist home.
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Use High-Impact Accessories
Fill spaces with eye-catching accessories in vibrant colors, bold patterns and striking silhouettes.
Statement-making accents add the finishing touch to maximalist decor.
When selecting accessories, look for pieces that capture your personality and spark joy.
Some maximalist accessories ideas:
- Vibrant throw pillows in rich velvets, exotic animal prints and global textile patterns enliven sofas.
- Abstract wall sculptures, neon art and colorful macrame hangings create captivating artwork.
- Jewel-toned glassware and barware sets lend drama to drink display.
- Sculptural candelabras, branch-shaped sconces and beaded pendant lights illuminate.
- Vases bursting with oversized botanicals, florals and feathers add organic texture.
- lacquered jewelry boxes, brushed metal catchalls and woven hampers organize.
- Vintage maps, butterfly displays and pressed flower art showcase personal passions.
- Bold ceramic garden stools, vibrant poufs and curvy accent chairs provide extra seating.
When sourcing maximalist accessories, browse décor shops, vintage boutiques, flea markets and Etsy for treasures.
Seeking out handcrafted, customized pieces adds originality.
Look for quality construction and materials meant to last, as investments will stay in your space longest.
But do not rule out budget accessories either!
Even inexpensive pops of color, pattern and texture create major impact.
Style throw blankets at the end of beds, tie dyed pillowcases, and ceramic animals layered on shelves.
Small details make a big visual difference.
Accessories let you layer in colors, textures and art that reflect who you are.
They allow self-expression without commitment topermanent furniture choices.
Embrace lush layers, vibrant palettes, global designs, imaginative art and any eclectic finds sparking happiness.
Accessorize freely and boldly.
You can always switch pieces out as your style evolves!
Unleashing your maximalist style is all about embracing color, pattern, texture – and most of all, YOU.
This bold interior design direction beckons you to fill your home with pieces that make your spirit soar.
Maximalism celebrates eclectic decorating, passionate personal expression, and surrounding yourself with treasured collections and beautiful abundance.
As you plan your maximalist rooms, do not be afraid to mix and match with abandon.
Combining disparate styles and eras creates captivating contrast.
Select artwork, furniture and accessories that capture your essence.
Choose vibrant hues that lift your mood and patterns that energize.
Display your most beloved possessions proudly.
Every decor choice should spark happiness.
While maximalism revels in abundance, restrain your decorating enthusiasm occasionally.
Overstuffing rooms risks overwhelming your senses.
Edit accessory collections to highlight true prized pieces.
Leave a bit of breathing room between furniture groupings and artwork clusters.
Not every inch must be jam packed!
Allow a few moments of emptiness to let visually busy accents shine.
Most importantly, decorate fearlessly.
Do not worry about chasing fleeting trends or impressing guests.
A maximalist home reflects your bold inner spirit.
Surround yourself with treasures that tell your unique story.
Through color, texture, pattern and abundant accessories, create an authentic, lively environment.
Let your home become an infinitely changing collage, evolving as your passions shift.
Unleash your inner maximalist!
these inspiration ideas demonstrate how to decadently decorate while infusing rooms with personality.
What is your vision for creating a home filled with joy and self-expression?
Begin embracing your decorating style today – and do not hold back!
