Minimalism had its quiet little moment — bless its heart — but maximalism is the décor equivalent of a deep belly laugh. It’s bold, collected, layered, personality-driven, and loudly uninterested in anyone else’s rules. If minimalism whispers, maximalism belts show tunes in the shower. And honestly? That’s exactly why it’s irresistible.

Maximalism doesn’t mean clutter. It means abundance with intention. Curated collections. Layered textures. Colours that spark joy rather than toe the line. It encourages you to express your personality in technicolor — not hide it in white boxes. If you’re ready to step into a world where the walls talk back (in a friendly, fabulous way), here’s your guide.

Start with a fearless colour palette

Maximalism begins with colour — rich jewel tones, deep greens, plums, ochres, saturated blues, spicy reds. The trick is committing. Instead of timid little accents, think full-bodied walls, dramatic drapery, or a bold sofa. If you want to ease in, try an accent wall with wallpaper, a statement rug, or a giant artwork in vivid tones to anchor the room. The more confident the colour, the more grounded the rest of your décor feels.

Layer patterns like you mean it

This is where maximalism really gets its groove on. Mix florals with stripes, geometrics with animal prints, chinoiserie with tartan — play, don’t apologise. The key to preventing a “visual riot” is cohesion through shared tones. Different patterns can live beautifully together if they share a colour family. Start with a big pattern (wallpaper or patterned curtains), then layer a medium pattern (rug), then sprinkle smaller patterns in cushions, lampshades, or throws. It’s all about rhythm.

Build collections and display them proudly

Maximalism loves stories, and collections tell them best. Books (especially lots of books), ceramics, vintage portraits, globes, candlesticks, matchbox cars — anything you cherish deserves a spotlight. Curate your shelves so the eye dances: mix tall and short objects, stack books horizontally and vertically, interleave sculptures with framed art. When loved items are displayed with intention, they feel like treasures, not clutter.

Mix old, new, glamorous, and quirky

The maximalist home doesn’t shy away from contrast. A mid-century lamp next to a baroque mirror? Delicious. A modern sofa with vintage kantha throws? Divine. A lacquered sideboard topped with flea-market trinkets? Chef’s kiss. The contrast is what gives maximalism its lived-in drama — it makes every room feel collected over time rather than “bought in one go.”

Embrace oversized art (and lots of it)

Gallery walls? Yes, please — and don’t stop at ten frames. Mix oil paintings, sketches, posters, embroidered pieces, mirrors, and even sculptural objects. For a bolder statement, go for one giant, unapologetic artwork that commands the room. Oversized florals, abstract explosions of colour, or moody portraits all bring maximalist energy instantly.

Let lighting be sculptural

Maximalist lighting is never shy. Think chandeliers dripping with glass, lamps with pleated patterned shades, sculptural brass sconces, colourful ceramic bases, or vintage mushroom lamps. Your lighting shouldn’t just illuminate the room; it should flirt with it. In maximalist rooms, lighting becomes jewellery — the final sparkle.

Add texture everywhere (and then add more)

Velvet, brocade, silk, cane, rattan, wool, lacquer, marble — mix them like you’re making a layered dessert. The richness of maximalism lies in tactile contrast. A velvet sofa against a patterned wallpaper, a carved wooden cabinet paired with a glossy ceramic lamp, a woven rug beneath a polished coffee table — textures keep the eye and hand engaged.

Use curtains as statement-makers

Curtains are a maximalist’s secret weapon. Think dramatic floor-length custom drapes in velvet, patterned brocade, bold ikats, or oversized florals. The more theatrical the fold, the more personality the room gains. Full pleats, thick trims, contrasting borders — this is not the time for shy window dressing. Curtains can tie together your palette and become the most striking vertical plane in the room.

Bring nature indoors (in abundance)

Plants soften maximalist intensity and make rooms feel lush instead of overwhelming. Layer tall floor plants with small tabletop greens. Mix glossy leaves with feathery ferns. Even dried branches, pampas grass, or sculptural twigs add shape and drama. The greenery becomes part of the visual orchestra.

Add whimsy — because maximalism should be fun

A tasselled lampshade. A cheeky statue. A playful print hiding behind the door. A gallery of mismatched vintage plates. A giant ceramic leopard. Whatever makes you grin belongs in your maximalist home. The best maximalist spaces are joyful, surprising, and slightly mischievous.

Final Thought: More Is Beautiful When It’s Personal

Maximalism isn’t about chaos — it’s about character. It’s about surrounding yourself with colour, comfort, history, humour, and all the things that feel like you. Let the walls tell your stories. Let your collections sit proudly. Let your fabrics clash playfully. And let your home feel full — full of life, full of beauty, full of soul.