5 rules for decorating with maximalism – an expert guide

Looking to introduce more maximalism (read: pattern) into your home, but not sure where to start? We asked a master of maximalism for advice.

‘Maximalist interiors are about indulging in more; more color, more pattern and more texture, combining patterns, prints, weaves, florals, ikats, stripes, geometrics and botanical motifs which work wonderfully well together to create truly inviting and rich, layered interiors that deliver wow factor,' says Stefan Ormenisan, Co-founder & MD, MindTheGap.

'Decorating with pattern can be intimidating, but rather than resorting to following current interior design trends, look for a standout pattern that speaks to you personally and build a scheme around that design, your starting point could be a vase, cushion, rug or a wallpaper, by building a scheme around an item you love, you’ll find your own personal maximalist aesthetic.'

1. Start with wallpaper

'A great starting point for a maximalist transformation is the addition of a wallpaper. A wallpaper will deliver the greatest impact in any interior. Using a favorite wallpaper as the base for your design scheme, layer in more pattern and color, as well as pairing with other floral or botanical prints in fabrics and accessories.'

'The joy in maximalist interiors is often in the combination or pairing of patterns, such as Ikats with stripes or, geometrics with florals and botanical designs. If you are looking to achieve a genuinely maximalist feel, avoid a feature wall which will look half-hearted, and embrace pattern all over with wallpaper on all four walls.’ 

2. Layer in your own collections

'It’s not just textiles and soft furnishings that will bring a maximalist touch to a space' consider celebrating things you love with a display. Layering in collections of objects, such as ceramics, art or glassware will bring a maximalist feel to an interior. Consider uniformity in the presentation of your objects, as structure will ensure your collection feels showcased rather than cluttered.’  

3. Try pattern in transitional spaces

'If you are adding pattern to your home for the first time, consider starting in transitional spaces. Hallways and bathrooms are fantastic spaces in which to experiment with a new found love of pattern. Those areas where we pass through or spend little time feel less pressured, allowing bolder and braver design choices to be explored.’  

4. Limit the color palette

'When mixing a variety of patterns, it’s important your design scheme doesn’t feel overly busy or jumbled. Ensure your interior feels sophisticated and refined by keeping to a limited color palette, restricting your color choices to a particular level of saturation, mid tones, brights or pastels, but not mixing across these color tones, guarantees your maximalist interior will both stylish and cohesive.’ 

5. Create a cohesive thread

‘Treat your home as a whole, create an immersive sanctuary with a common thread of patterns throughout your home. Bring a cohesive and considered feel to your maximalist interior with moments of repetition, whether that be that stripes, Ikats or floral block prints, injecting patterns or textiles from the same stylistic family throughout the home will create moments of familiarity and harmony.' 

FAQs

There's no doubt that maximalism is here to stay, and it's a wonderful way to use a variety of patterns, from florals to abstracts, in bold colors, layered one upon the other alongside your favorite collections to make your space truly unique.