Maximalist Style: Guide to a Colorful, Multi-Pattern, Playful Home

Maximalism has been on the rise in recent years, and we’re all for this explosion of pattern, color, and texture. Whether you’re a maximalist by default (looking at you, passionate collectors and shopping enthusiasts!) or you gravitate towards a home abound with ornamentation, we’ve got a few ideas to help kickstart your maximalism decor journey. Similarly, take a look at our global style design guide for more inspiration on eclectic design.

What does being a maximalist say about you?

If you enjoy maximalist interior design, you love patterns, colors, and treasured objects. You find joy in collecting and displaying meaningful items–whether it’s books, pottery, plants, figurines, photographs, vintage cameras, or even linens from around the world.

A preference for maximalist decor over minimalist decor means you thrive when you are surrounded by excess. Organized (or disorganized) chaos energizes you, and you love to make statements when it comes to design. You also enjoy comfort, but you are not afraid to experiment and explore off the allegorical beaten path.

Where did maximalism come from?

Many designers believe that the maximalist style we know today comes from the Victorian era, which was comprised of luxurious fabrics, treasure-filled rooms, and ornate furnishings. Most furniture was fashioned out of solid wood and either painted, gilded, or carved with nature motifs like flowers and leaves or other ornamental motifs.

Today’s version of maximalism has been upgraded with more saturated colors, contemporary prints, and more layers. In-style accessories and slimmer furniture replace bulky Victorian units, but they retain the passion for ornamentation and extravagance.

Mix and match patterns and bold colors

While some of us thrive in a hectic eclectic environment, not all maximalist themes have to be helter-skelter. In fact, repetition of the same color or motif will help you stick to a (somewhat) cohesive idea. Below are some color stories that may inspire your maximalist vision board.

A blooming garden

There is never a shortage of florals linens, and for good reason! From Mid-century-influenced prints like Dahlia Daydreams to Art Nouveau inspired patterns like Enchanted (CP), it’s easy to set your maximalist interior foundation with multicolor flowers.

Eclectic maximalist

Eclectic maximalism is akin to a global style home. Your choice of patterns may reflect your favorite travel destinations alongside mementos from your adventures there. Customer favorite Mosaique Bleue is a fantastic base with its kaleidoscope of colors–chocolate brown, cyan blue, apricot, and rich cream. Anchor patterns with a solid (ish) print from our Dreams of India collection such as Shimmering Goldstone.

Country cottage to the max

Delicate florals in sweet colorways like china blue and white are quintessentially cottage. Crank up your cottage home fantasy and mix botanical prints like English Gardens, Ivy Lace, and Tropical Garden for a lush, maximalist home.

Moody maximalism

Dark reds, purple, deep green, woody tones, and other rich colors make up dark and moody maximalist homes. Try unexpected combinations like Orange Blossom and Mystic Amethyst in the spirit of maximalist courage.

Vintage maximalism

If you plan to show off antiques and upcycled furnishings, vintage-inspired patterns will give your interiors that extra special something. Lean on collections like Woodland Ferns, Moonlit Taj, and Dragonfly and Lotus. For a warmer color palette, try Orange Blossom, Versailles, or Enchanted – Ivory.

Show off your personality with your decor

At the heart of the maximalist aesthetic is the individual. All the extra decor, travel keepsakes, and unique furniture should show off your style and tell your story.

Travel mementos

Whether you collect jars of sand or novelty postcards, allow guests a glimpse into your life by displaying your souvenirs.

• Personalized maps
• Travel journals
• Printed photos
• Cultural artifacts
• Postcard gallery

Handmade items

Are you a DIY enthusiast or someone who appreciates all things handcrafted? Support independent artists and beautify your home at the same time with exclusive works of art.

• Quirky lampshades
• Graphic rugs
• Custom digital prints
• Handmade flowers, baskets, linens

Repurposed treasures

You might find that you enjoy maximalist style because it’s a way for you to find a new purpose for old or would-be discarded items. When you repurpose furniture or decor, you’re designing a home full of character, which is really what maximalism is all about.

• Repurposed furniture
• Antique mirrors and gilded frames
• Themed apparel (e.g. costumes, cultural wear)
• Re-painted tables and chairs

A Boho maximalist bedroom

A maximalist bedroom with a Bohemian spirit is filled with tactile pieces like plush quilts, saturated colors, and natural materials like wicker.

Get the look: Maximalist decor ideas

To achieve a look similar to the photo above, choose bedding from Dahlia Daydreams and layer with a Jaipuri Razai quilt or quilted bedspread draped across the bottom half of your bed. A plain gray sheet set grounds both floral patterns.

The finishing touches

Don’t forget to dot your room with curios and more tactile pleasures like woven rugs and macrame hanging planters.

Modern maximalist living room

Maximalism tends to favor vintage styles, but a modern maximalist interior is indeed possible. Choose solid color furniture and muted rugs then accessorize with color.

Get the look: Maximalist decor ideas

If you want to use pink as an accent color, we recommend a Dahlia Daydreams curtain with a coordinating pink bedspread you can use as an extra throw on the sofa. Incorporate other florals into your sofa pillow covers for max color.

The finishing touches

Pastel tones or matte finishes speak to Dahlia Daydreams and your modern maximalist living room.

Bold and bright maximalist kitchen

A maximalist kitchen will use a mix of retro and contemporary styles. One way to transform a kitchen instantly is by making over your floors or walls with graphic tile or wallpaper, respectively. Keep cabinets and chairs a solid color.

Get the look: Maximalist decor ideas

If you’re not up to replacing your wallpaper, there’s other ways to make a big impact with decor. Try the Enchanted – Ivory curtain panel to create a focal point, or cover a petite window with the Orange Blossom valance. Another idea instead of wallpaper? Hang up reusable tote bags or aprons in a row to cover up a bare wall.

The finishing touches

Gather up retro-inspired and colorful decor like wall hangings, clocks, and canister sets.

Moody maximalist bathroom

A dramatic maximalist bathroom is oh-so-chic and easy to actualize no matter the size you’re working with. Jungle and botanical wallpapers are a popular choice in this realm of design, as well as single-color cabinets in unexpected colors.

Get the look: Maximalist decor ideas

Don’t want to commit to a wallpaper? No worries–use a shower curtain or sheer curtain instead to create a large, floral panel to make your bathroom more intriguing. Our top recommendation is Enchanted – Blue for its rich blue ground and multicolor blooms. Luxe soaps and candles add grandeur to your moody bathroom.

The finishing touches

Replace or repaint your vanity in a dramatic color like pink or black to set the moody maximalist ambience. Find more ideas to update bathrooms here.

Eclectic maximalist dining room

Maximalist tablescapes are so much fun, and you can redesign your dining room to enjoy this aesthetic every day. Table covers, centerpieces, candles, cloth napkins, bar carts–more is more when it comes to maximalism.

Get the look: Maximalist decor ideas

To replicate this look above, you’ll need floral dishware and linens in warm palettes such as Orange Blossom and Versailles. Use a bar cart to display curios, hold extra dishware, or store your liquor collection.

The finishing touches

Accessorize with amber glass holders and a show-stopping centerpiece like a golden swan planter.

Dark maximalist office

Similar to the dark academia aesthetic, dark maximalism highlights jewel tones, rich metals, and an old world style. Brighten up a dark maximalist office with light-filtering curtains and block printed throws.

Get the look: Maximalist decor ideas

Do you feel drawn to the teal walls in this inspiration photo? Try Jeweled Peacock, our turquoise and gold curtain panel to capture the above color story. Combine with Dragonfly and Lotus for more privacy and repeat the gold accent throughout the room.

The finishing touches

Line your shelves with books and charming figurines, taking care to mix wooden and metal elements.

Maximalism is living by the motto “More is more is more.” If you want to go the complete opposite of the design spectrum, take a look at our Japandi style guide for a minimalist, rustic home.

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