Updated On: 13 March, 2023 09:48 AM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai Agarwal
Industry experts explain what modern maximalism is, trace its popularity, outline key characteristics, and share tips to help you adapt this eclectic design trend

Image for representational purpose only. Photo Courtesy: istock
“Maximalism is the art of far more--rich patterns, extremely vibrant hues, abundant art, and a genuine sense of amusement and strong movements," explains Tushar Mistry, principal architect and designer at Tushar Mistry Design Studio. He further adds, “Maximalism is becoming more popular because it enables the home to own the aura of attraction that exudes warmth.”
According to Mistry, one should experiment with more is less as a design concept to create such schemes with bold use of colours, patterns, and finishes in unpredictable ways. He shares, “Modern maximalism is adding more and more elements without making it look overwhelming or overbearing, the design should create a harmonious balance between its elements and patterns used wisely that should not look cluttered.”
Rise of modern maximalism
This design trend also allows people to channel themselves through their homes. “For contemporary and affluent clientele, products and collections with a hint of personal branding emanate great value. Maximalism emphasises using too many audio-visual clues or cues overall. Better is more. It honours opulence, vigour, ampleness, and excess. A maximalist artwork is jam-packed with vividly descriptive lines, eye-catching colour schemes, a variety of intricately designed patterns, and lavishly thought-out metaphors.”
It can be posed that modern maximalism emerged as a reaction to the declining popularity of minimalism in the art and design world. Mistry insists, “While the charm of maximalism lies in its almost unbridled freedom, it has been a part of the design world for centuries—how it has manifested in our homes has changed over time, of course, but the idea of showing off all of one`s favourite things is by no means a new concept. Those who decorate in that style are like curators of their own space to style the way required.”
Key characteristics of maximalist home decor for your home
- Play with patterns of curtains, couches, walls, furniture, and the small assets you keep close to your place in more shades to highlight.
- Use vibrant colours either dark or vibrant which organise the room to look bright. Especially, the palette of different shades with décor items brings the trend on.
- Bold wallpapers may suit an auspicious set of decorations in the room or dining room. The low-rate pieces are artificially available in the market.
- Glossy or lacquered furniture pieces are unique at any time. It is a good add-up to home vibes.
- Important to add layers in spaces with the use of soft furnishings, arranging bookshelves
- Use of crystal chandeliers that adds grandeur.
How to choose your home decor style?
“Your choice among different styles in home decor reflects individual tastes and preferences. Delving deep into your personality and lifestyle is a crucial step in determining which style, be it maximalism or minimalism is most suitable for you. If you are the sort of person who prefers a more serene, uncluttered environment that emanates calm, minimalism may be more to your liking. However, if you`re the sort of person who relishes bold colours and eye-catching patterns, maximalism could be the perfect choice to express your unique individuality,” says Ekant Singh, founder and CEO of Page 2813.
Below, the design expert lists three factors that will help you evaluate the type of decor you aspire to have.
Size of your space: Area of the space can influence your home décor decision. A small space looks more open and spacious if a minimalist décor is incorporated. Conversely, if you have ample space to play with, adding more vibrant colours and decorative elements can make it more comfortable and inviting.
Budget: Your budget is another factor to keep in mind. Minimalism tends to utilise simpler, more straightforward furniture and decor that can be less expensive than the more ornate, decorative pieces that maximalism involves.
Examine your current decor: A vital aspect in choosing the right style of home décor is to start by examining your current décor. If your home is currently bursting with objects and furniture, paring down to a minimalist look could provide an invigorating change. Conversely, if your space feels too barren, adding more items and decorative elements could create a cosy, welcoming ambiance.
Design tips on incorporating both maximalism and minimalism
Revamping the decor of your home can be a profound experience as the tiny changes that you make every now and then can have a profound impact on the look and feel of your living space. Singh explains, “By carefully choosing a few statement pieces, a larger-than-life ambience can be created that will draw the attention of anyone who steps into your home. In the end, the most critical aspect of home decor is that it should reflect your unique individuality. So don`t be afraid to experiment and mix and match different elements until you achieve the perfect balance that evokes your personal style and complements your lifestyle.”
To help you combine the best of both styles, Singh shares simple yet effective steps to add a touch of grandeur and opulence to your living space without breaking the bank:
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