While minimalism may never go out of style, a new interior style contender has taken the spotlight – maximalism. The anti-minimalism. The more, the better. A style that begs begs for possessions and has created a storm in the interior design world.
But What is Maximalism?
Maximalism is characterised by bold décor and fullness of possessions. It has reared its head throughout history, and was normally favoured by the upper classes showing off their wealth. This modern resurgence is more about trend than wealth and mostly popular with the millennial and gen Z generations (famously lacking in wealth!)
Modern maximalism ties bold colours and patterns with lots of accessories on display. From stuffed book shelves, to hanging plants, the maximalism trend can be done in many ways. A penchant for plants seems to be what kicked it off. When every surface of your home is occupied, you need a name for your trend. Once you’ve moved away from minimalism, there’s really no going back.
Vintage Inspired Maximalism
Vintage inspired maximalism is by far my favourite. It creates a juxtaposition of modern items with trinkets from the past. For example, I love this photo of a Mac right in the middle of vintage cameras, and of course, tonnes of plants.
Modern maximalism looks like a timetraveler’s home. A mix of old and new sit between ageless items, such as wooden furniture, framed photos and plants. Plants feature heavily, it would see you can never have enough plants with this trend.
Below are some styling tips to help you achieve your own vintage inspired maximalist home.
Start with the walls
Walls should be deep colours and patterned wallpaper is a must. Deep greens and blues are currently favoured for painted walls. Wallpaper are much broader, as long as the patterns are large and the colours are bold. I prefer block coloured painted walls, but that’s just me.
Try to keep the original, old-style radiators. Traditional radiators are absolutely perfect for this look and should be protected at all costs. If your radiators need replacing, consider a Victorian style cast iron radiator to complement the room.
Furniture doesn’t need to match
While matching furniture tends to be the norm, furniture that doesn’t match will create a more eclectic look. Rather than clashing, the furniture should be complementary. Jewel tones are quire popular at the moment – an emerald sofa might look good next to a gold coloured chair. Things like sideboards and side tables should follow a theme, but again, not necessarily match.
Acquire vintage items
Getting hold of vintage items doesn’t need to be an expensive task. I get most of mine from second hand furniture stores and charity shops. Things like mismatched glassware and the old style Singer sewing machine can be picked up pretty cheaply.
Another great place to find furniture it Facebook marketplace. People often have a clear out and want old stuff gone quickly meaning they’ll sell it cheap or give it away for free.
Other staples
The finishing touches should always be timeless pieces like candles and plants. I know I’ve mentioned plants a lot, but they’re really having a moment right now. I’m not so great at caring for plants but every time I visit any of my friends, it’s like walking through a jungle!
Candles are ever-popular too. If you’re not planning on burning them (or even if you are) moulded bare candles – without a glass jar, are very on-trend. Bubble cubes and curved women’s torso candles are very popular at the moment, and I think like plants, they don’t tend to look like they’re from any time period i particular.