Maximalism Decorating Style: Bold, Beautiful, and Unapologetically You
- Beau Sutton
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
If Minimalism is about “less,” Maximalism is all about more. More color. More pattern. More personality. It’s a fearless, joy-filled approach to decorating that says, if you love it — display it!
This style celebrates individuality, nostalgia, and creativity. From animal prints to layered vintage finds, Maximalism invites you to turn your home into a living art piece.
What Is Maximalism?
Maximalism is the opposite of minimalist restraint. It’s about curated abundance — layering colors, prints, textures, and treasures to create a space that feels alive.
It’s not about clutter — it’s about storytelling. Every book, painting, and quirky object says something about you.
The Core Principles of Maximalism
🎨 1. Bold Colors Everywhere
Color is the heartbeat of Maximalism. Think emerald green, peacock blue, mustard yellow, fuchsia, and rich burgundy — sometimes all in one room.
You can mix warm and cool tones, layer patterns, and use high-contrast combos. The more fearless the palette, the more dynamic the space.
🖼️ 2. Pattern on Pattern (and Then Some)
Alt text: Eclectic living room with floral wallpaper, geometric rug, and striped curtains in bold tones.
Maximalists don’t fear mixing prints — they thrive on it. Stripes, florals, animal prints, plaids, and abstract designs can all coexist.
The trick? Keep repeating colors or themes to tie it together. It’s visual chaos, but it feels intentional.
🐆 3. Animal Motifs & Statement Decor
Alt text: Leopard-print rug, faux zebra stool, and decorative animal heads mounted on a patterned wall.
Maximalism takes cues from the natural world — but make it dramatic. Faux taxidermy, leopard print, peacock feathers, tiger rugs, and sculptural animal busts make powerful statements.
They add humor and theatricality — two hallmarks of true Maximalist design.
🪞 4. Mix Eras & Styles
Alt text: Vintage-inspired living room mixing Victorian furniture with mid-century lighting and modern art.
One of the joys of Maximalism is mixing pieces across time periods — a gilded mirror with a neon sign, or a velvet sofa beside a Lucite table.
It’s about storytelling through design — a collected look that feels evolved over time.
🌈 5. Sky’s the Limit Creativity
Alt text: Gallery wall filled with colorful artwork and eclectic decor pieces on a jewel-toned wall.
In Maximalism, nothing is too much. Your home is your personal gallery. Showcase travel finds, heirlooms, quirky art, and pieces that make you smile.
The only design rule? If you love it, it belongs.
The Mood: A Symphony of Color and Story
Cozy lounge with bold patterned furniture, colorful art, and layered rugs in jewel tones.
Maximalist interiors feel alive — a visual story told through texture, pattern, and joy. They’re not afraid of imperfection; they celebrate it.
It’s a design rebellion — a pushback against sterile spaces and beige sameness.
How to Create a Maximalist Space
Step 1: Pick a Confident Color Palette
Start with 3-4 strong colors (like teal, mustard, coral, and emerald) and repeat them throughout your space.
Step 2: Layer Textures
Combine velvet, rattan, marble, brass, glass, and faux fur. Texture adds richness and depth.
Step 3: Build a Gallery Wall
Mix art prints, vintage portraits, mirrors, and personal photos. The more varied, the better.
Step 4: Add Statement Pieces
Hang an oversized chandelier. Mount a faux animal head. Display that eccentric vase you found at a flea market.
Step 5: Tie It All Together
Use consistent colors or materials to keep cohesion. Maximalism isn’t random — it’s curated chaos.
Common Maximalist Motifs
Category | Examples |
Colors | Emerald, mustard, cobalt, fuchsia, black, gold |
Patterns | Florals, leopard, stripes, damask, baroque |
Materials | Velvet, brass, lacquer, rattan, marble |
Themes | Botanical, tropical, celestial, bohemian |
Decor Staples | Gallery walls, vintage treasures, ornate lamps, layered rugs |
Designers & Influencers Who Do Maximalism Best
🎨 Justina Blakeney (@justinablakeney) — Creator of The Jungalow, known for vibrant bohemian maximalism.
🕯️ Abigail Ahern (@abigailahern) — Moody, layered maximalist with deep, dark palettes.
💎 Jonathan Adler (@jonathanadler) — Glamorous and playful maximalism with mid-century influence.