Maximalist Home Design Ideas

In the ever-evolving world of interior design, minimalism has reigned supreme for years. But as we move into 2025, the pendulum is swinging back to a more daring and expressive approach typified by maximalist design. This design philosophy is all about embracing bold, eclectic, and vibrant interiors that break free from the constraints of traditional decor. Maximalist design encourages creativity, individuality and, most importantly, fun in how we decorate our spaces. If you're ready to dive into a world of rich colours, layered textures and statement pieces, then maximalist decor might be the perfect fit for your home.

At its core, maximalist design is about embracing excess and celebrating the beauty of a room full of personality. Unlike minimalism, which focuses on a pared-down aesthetic, maximalism encourages the inclusion of contrasting colours, varied patterns and an abundance of textures. This style is unapologetically bold, often mixing antique and modern elements, creating a unique harmony between diverse design periods.

Maximalist interiors invite personality, creativity and self-expression into every room. It's not about clutter or chaos — it's about being thoughtful in how you combine pieces that tell a story, evoke emotion and create a visually stimulating environment — much like this interior, inspired by the glamour of the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Cover image: Tactile velvets, animal prints and decorative botanicals are all elements of maximalist design. Image: James Dunlop Textiles.

One of the first things you'll notice in maximalist decor is its use of bold colours. Whether it's deep jewel tones like emerald green and sapphire blue, or vibrant hues like mustard yellow and coral, colour is central to this design style. A maximalist approach to colour means no corner is left bare — walls, furniture and accessories are all fair game for bright shades and daring contrasts.

To incorporate bold colour schemes, consider painting a statement wall in a rich, unexpected shade. Pair contrasting colours like teal and pink, or mustard and forest green for a dynamic, eye-catching palette. When combining colours, think beyond the traditional colour wheel; let your space reflect your personality and mood.

Maximalist decor thrives on the interplay of textures and patterns. Gone are the days of neutral tones and subtle designs. Maximalism is about embracing the drama of layered textiles, vibrant rugs and dynamic wallpaper patterns.

Start by mixing different fabrics like velvet, silk and linen in your furniture and accessories. Throw pillows, curtains and upholstery can all be an opportunity to add depth and dimension to your space. Don’t shy away from bold patterns — florals, stripes and animal prints can coexist beautifully in a maximalist home, as long as they’re thoughtfully curated. For example, a floral print might find its perfect complement in an animal print chair or a geometric rug — such as the Stella Diva by Greg Natale.

Another hallmark of maximalist design is that it encourages blending eras and styles. The juxtaposition of old and new pieces creates a dynamic, multi-dimensional space in which antique furniture coexists harmoniously with contemporary art or a modern sofa, bridging the past with the present.

To successfully mix old and new, start by choosing a focal point that unifies the room. This could be a vintage rug or a statement sofa that ties together different elements in the room. Maximalist decor celebrates contrast, so don’t hesitate to mix wood, metal and glass in your furniture choices.

One of the more exciting aspects of maximalist design is the opportunity for personal expression. Maximalism allows homeowners to curate a collection of items that reflect their tastes, travels and memories. Whether it’s a collection of vintage books, antique mirrors or souvenirs from around the world, each item has a story to tell.

Maximalist decor is all about showcasing who you are, so let your collections and heirlooms take centre stage — as in this home designed by architect Ashley Muir and loved by its owners for more than 40 years. Mix and match, create visual layers, and celebrate your personal style. No two maximalist homes are alike, making it a truly personalised approach to interior design.