Style & Design
Maximalism: More is More
What is maximalism?
White walls, minimal decor, subtle colors—you won’t find any of these in a maximalist space! Some people say that less is more, but maximalists believe the opposite. More color, more texture, and more boldness define this style. Simplistic, neutral design has reigned for years, and, inevitably, some people are ready for a change. Say hello to maximalism.
Contrary to what you might think, maximalism is more than just having a lot of stuff. Some of the hallmarks of maximalist design are:
- Patterns and prints
- Bold colors
- Ornateness
- Layering
- Lots of textures
- Artwork (especially different styles and mismatched frames!)
- Mixing design styles, like boho (it shares a common theme of excess), English, vintage, mid-century modern, Victorian and art deco
- Books, books and more books
The style is an updated twist on classically exuberant English interiors updated for the 21st century with bright colors, contemporary patterns and modern accents. The legendary club Annabel’s in London perfectly embodies this blend of classic Britishness and modern maximalism.
So, what do we love about maximalism? It allows you to express every side of your personality at once. If you’ve ever felt torn between styles or couldn’t define yours in one word, maximalism may be for you. (Indecisive friends, unite!) This design style allows you the freedom to fill your home with items that you love, instead of worrying about fitting them into a style box. Loving your decor is key—random items will not bring the same joy as a personalized, curated collection.
Enough talking about maximalism—let’s see some of our favorite looks! As far as maximalist designs go, this one is pretty minimal! (Stay with us.) The bold, patterned tile and dramatic color scheme definitely fit the style, yet the symmetry of the space and overall glam theme reign in it.
This bathroom takes boho-chic to the next level with a bright geometric tiled floor and lots of fabulous decor pieces. Black accents throughout the room (can we talk about that chandelier?!) bring cohesion to the space without dulling it down. This gorgeous transformation took place in just six weeks as part of the Fall 2019 One Room Challenge™.
We couldn’t just share one photo of the home that sparked the idea for this blog post! House Beautiful’s 2019 Kitchen of the Year was a maximalist dream come true with no explanation needed. Read our spotlight on Michelle Nussbaumer’s amazing design for more photos of the space.
This kitchen is a good reminder that each surface is an opportunity to create a work of art.
A much different approach to maximalism, this bathroom establishes a blue-grey color palette and sticks to it while varying the tone and playing with patterns.
This bright and colorful bathroom proves that maximalism doesn’t have to be dark and dramatic.
Back to the drama, an art-inspired tile is perfect for creating an accent wall that makes a statement.
Multiple patterns work hand in hand when they pull from the same warm color palette in this beautiful bathroom that was also featured in the One Room Challenge.
Maximalist spaces don’t need to hit every hallmark on our list. Here, an oversized, bold pattern is enough to stand out.
Another One Room Challenge contender was this glamorous gold-and-black laundry room. The opulence just draws you in (which is good when you’re trying to force yourself to do the laundry!)
Here’s another case of a stand-alone maximalist tile. The vivacious purple veining in this Milas Lilac marble tile collection and the mix of shapes deliver dynamic style.
Dip your toe into maximalism by just choosing one extra-bold feature.
Drama, patterns, metallic finishes and more—as they say with maximalism, more is more.
Feeling inspired to paint your grey walls fuchsia yet? Whatever your design goals are, we’re here to help you achieve them. Schedule a design consultation with an in-store tile expert to get started. And don’t forget—sometimes more is more!
