After noticing a shift in the decades-old ‘more-is-more’ aesthetic, even self-proclaimed minimalists have been wondering – could this over-the-top trend finally be having an elegant makeover? We break down all you need to know…
I’ve never been a fan of flamboyant interiors – I’d pick minimalist schemes and clutter-free spaces over colour-drenching and ostentatious furniture any day of the week. So, when animal-printed wallpapers and scalloped sofas started populating my Instagram feed, I thought, this is it. Loud, unapologetic maximalism is back – again – and it won’t be long before a monkey-shaped chandelier is fighting its way through my ceiling.
Yet, what I’ve come to discover is that the current version of this cheerful trend (which has been periodically reemerging one way or another since the 1960s) is actually nothing like its noisy predecessors.
This time, all the different, lively patterns are in harmony with each other, and kitsch, misplaced furniture has been swapped for characterful pieces that seamlessly blend in. Could it be that maximalism decided to take it down a notch or is there a new facet to its exuberance that suddenly makes sense? I spoke to a few industry professionals to find out.
According to interior designer Matthew Williamson, over the past decade, maximalism has evolved from merely being a countermovement to minimalism, to establishing itself as an intentional design philosophy.
“A few years ago, it was often about sheer abundance and exuberance,” he adds, and Pia Pelkonen, creative director at Pia Design, agrees: “Maximalism used to entail bold, loud colour palettes, clashing styles and design elements, and an abundance of ‘trendy’ décor, leading to a chaotic, cluttered look.”
What does maximalism look like now?
Experts tell me the current take on the ornate aesthetic is more sophisticated, mixing styles and textures in a considered way. “The focus has shifted to creating harmonious yet dynamic spaces, showcasing a refined eclecticism,” says Matthew.
He further explains that embracing varying bold patterns, colours and styles feels deeply personal now, reflecting each homeowner’s unique temperament. “It’s all about celebrating individuality through layered designs that exude personality and charm. Think large-scale botanical prints or velvet furniture in jewel tones, paired with rich golds and grounding neutrals.”
As far as eye-popping, statement pieces go, these are still very much part of the trend, only now they remain tasteful in all their quirkiness.
Picture bulbous sofas and wiggle table lamps, expressive works of art and pattern drenching – essentially using the same or a similar print to cover everything from walls to furniture to textiles – all working together to maintain a balanced design.
So where does maximalism’s ‘quiet refinement’, as Pia describes it, come from? Interior designer and founder of Kelling Designs, Emma Deterding, puts it down to the need for prioritising quality over quantity, with every piece serving a purpose. “They’re all carefully chosen to contribute to the cohesive yet vibrant atmosphere.”
Sustainability
With this in mind, designers are turning to sustainability, too, to create more responsible spaces. “Everyone seems to be growing increasingly more sympathetic with choices and suppliers,” says Amy Stoddard, creative director of Amy Stoddart Studio.
“People are looking towards vintage markets, charity shops and online re-sale platforms to get their furniture, which goes hand in hand with the maximalism movement – a mix of eclectic items you love.”
What is the future of maximalism?
It’s clear that maximalism has changed a lot over the last decade, which makes me wonder, are there any more shapes it could take, and, more importantly, is there a future for it? Roselind Wilson, owner and creative director of Roselind Wilson Design, tells me there sure is.
“Trends are cyclical and always return in some revisited state or version of the original. What maximalism could become in the future is hard to anticipate, though. Technology is expanding so fast that the possibilities are as vast as one’s imagination. For example, instead of wallpapers being prints on a flat surface, who is to say we won’t have extremely large, 3D surfaces protruding from our walls? Wouldn’t that be something.”
One thing is certain still; whether we like it or not, whether it’s pared-back or too loud, trending or not, maximalism will continue to give us an excuse to unleash our creativity and add a little more character to our homes – even my own… (Just hold the palm tree lamps for now.)
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