Image: Clair Strong Interior Design

Maximalism is a movement of excess. It’s a direct reaction against the simplicity and function-focused philosophy of minimalism. It’s a bold and daring design aesthetic that takes the motto ‘more is more’ and adds sequins to it.

If you’re left a little cold and uninspired by minimalism, maximalism is the perfect antidote. Here’s how you can go all out and embrace excess in your home:

Fill Every Corner

Where a minimalist home might have a few key pieces of furniture and lots of open space, a maximalist home is the complete opposite. It’s busy, it’s striking and it draws the eye and excites the senses. Maximalism essentially gives you carte blanche to fill every nook, cranny and corner with furniture and accessories.

Start with a few key pieces, and slowly build up from there. Maximalist homes are ever-evolving so you don’t need to do it all at once.

Be Bold with Colour

Maximalism calls for lots of dramatic, clashing colours. Neutrals are welcome, but are often used in moderation (they work really well as anchors within the space). Play with light and dark hues and experiment with unusual colour combinations for a dynamic, layered space.

Don’t be afraid to break the rules. Maximalism encourages exploration and experimentation so ignore the colour wheel and simply go with your heart.

Mix Pattern and Texture

Once you’ve settled on a colour palette, it’s time to layer in pattern and texture. Again, there are no rules here. In fact, a flagrant breaking of design rules is encouraged. Pattern should be used liberally, on the walls, furniture and in accessories. You can choose patterns that clash beautifully, as pictured above, or you can choose one statement pattern and use it throughout the space.

Display Your Collections

Where minimalism hides clutter away, maximalism calls for everything to be on display. So get all your favourite trinkets, accessories and collections out of storage and display them proudly on open shelving. It’s warm, welcoming and visually exciting so it’s well worth all that extra dusting.