MAXIMALISM, creative and free

Maximalism is about being a glutton for life, seeing the world with open eyes, expressing who we are and what we love. Unlike other trends, it does not represent a specific period or time period. There are no hard and fast rules. Nor does it offer a set color palette or motif suggestions. Instead of forcing designers down well-trodden paths, it encourages them to let their creativity run free.

Curiosity cabinets full of treasures

Maximalism is not a movement of today, it comes from centuries ago. Its origins can be traced back to the manor rooms of aristocrats, where they displayed their wealth side by side with interesting objects from the natural history of the world. Pioneers of museums, these cabinets of curiosity, filled from head to toe with treasures, are also the inspiration for maximalist decorations.

Stories created with personal pieces

The appeal of maximalism lies in its freedom, which gives individuality a chance. At its core, every decor tells a story. Vintage pieces collected from travels, family heirlooms laden with memories, objects of special interest, classic or modern furniture meet to tell stories unique to that space. The starting point for decoration can be a special curiosity or a collection, or a country visited over the years.

Kaleidoscope-like color palette

The vitality and energy radiated by a maximalist lifestyle also triggers happiness. Bright shades, floral patterns and energizing shades of the eclectic color palette make the floor-to-ceiling space even more eye-catching. Botanical or vintage prints on ceilings, walls and furniture can also fulfill this function. In the maximalist space with bursts of color, black and white colors have a grounding effect that calms the environment. The intense color palette combining emerald, navy blue, violet, sapphire, black or fuchsia is always the protagonist. 

Fun walls and ceilings similar to a gallery

One thing maximalist spaces have in common is playful walls filled with custom framed art, mirrors and even small shelves. Bold combinations of paintings with different handmade frames add value to the gallery look. An example would be an abstract print in a gold leaf frame or a traditional oil painting in a vibrantly colored frame. Walls arranged with decorative mirrors stretch the boundaries of space, especially in small spaces.

Maximalism not only allows potentially incompatible elements, it actively encourages them. The return of carpets and rugs instead of bare floors and white walls, textiles that take on different lines from abstract patterns to stylized plant and animal motifs bring a timeless warmth to maximalist spaces. Details in palatial elegance add a glamorous splendor to maximalist spaces. Gold-plated objects in the form of fruits, gold-colored lampshade bases, decorative mirror frames and flamboyant candlesticks are ideal for bringing the luxurious feeling of sparkle to living spaces. 

One thing maximalist spaces have in common is playful walls filled with custom framed art, mirrors and even small shelves. Bold combinations of paintings with different handmade frames add value to the gallery look. An example would be an abstract print in a gold leaf frame or a traditional oil painting in a vibrantly colored frame. Walls arranged with decorative mirrors stretch the boundaries of space, especially in small spaces.

Maximalism not only allows potentially incompatible elements, it actively encourages them. The return of carpets and rugs instead of bare floors and white walls, textiles that take on different lines from abstract patterns to stylized plant and animal motifs bring a timeless warmth to maximalist spaces. Details in palatial elegance add a glamorous splendor to maximalist spaces. Gold-plated objects in the form of fruits, gold-colored lampshade bases, decorative mirror frames and flamboyant candlesticks are ideal for bringing the luxurious feeling of sparkle to living spaces. 

The more, the better

Accessories are a must for maximalist homes. The decorations are colorful and loud. It can overflow from shelves and sideboards, break known rules and cross style boundaries. New objects from favorite designers blend perfectly with antique family heirlooms or souvenirs. Bird cages, exotic bird figures, skulls, multi-colored floral compositions, retro furniture and similar objects give the space its individual character and spirit.

Maximalism challenges the idea that "less is more". It encourages people to use every surface to showcase bold color schemes, layered patterns and powerful statement pieces. Voluminous, curved and bright colored furniture impresses with upholstery in combinations of different patterns. Complementary accessories, flamboyant chandeliers and sconces take this look to the next level.

Order in chaos

Maximalism represents the search for a holistic order in chaos. Different styles, extravagant patterns, vibrant colors and textures intertwine, giving the space an eccentric yet inviting look with the most creative and free expression of the zest for life. Wallpapering the ceiling is one of the bold moves of this style. And it doesn't have to match the ones on the walls. Patterns of different scales but similar color groups create a balance between the elements.

Design tips

- Mix eras and styles by adding multiple layers of bold colors, textures and shades. Decide on a color palette and stick to it.

- Create collections with more than one item, such as books, vintage items, objects or pictures.

- Abstract patterns should be mixed with plant or animal motifs and this should be repeated without interruption.

- The different types of an object should be carefully clustered. Pendant lamps at different heights or lanterns with different uses.

- Opt for flashy pieces and unique items.

- Instead of placing random artworks on each wall, choose one as a focal point and fill it with pieces of different sizes from floor to ceiling.

- A key element of maximalist design is using the same pattern more than once in a room. Different colors of the same wallpaper can be applied on two opposite walls.
Bauhaus School and Today's Understanding of Design