Style Spotlight

Maximalism

Since last Style Spotlight we focused on Minimalism, it felt only natural to focus on Maximalism for this Style Spotlight. While Minimalism preaches “less is more”, Maximalism celebrates “more is more”. Maximalism layers colors on textures on patterns to create a vibrantly blended yet curated space.

Domino Magazine, Julie Vadnal

Maximalist interior design has its roots in 17th and 18th century interior design where styles such as Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassicism were know for their large scale designs, ornamented with intricate details, gilded accents, and mixing colors and patterns. The German word, “Wunderkammer,” which translates to “cabinet of curiosities,” also played a large influence to what we now consider to be Maximalism. These cabinets purpose were to spark conversation with interesting artifacts, souvenirs, artworks, and many other things - which is still an intention of the Maximalist interior design style.

Architectural Digest, Paola Singer

Maximalist design can look chaotic and messy to the untrained eye, or if not done well. However, in a well designed maximalist space, everything has its purpose and all the intricate design elements, colors, patterns, and art is layered intentionally. A maximalist interior shows the full personality of who resides in the space, and can be an incredibly fun way to show all of the things they love and have collected throughout their lives.

The Nordroom

Although at Duet Design Studio, we don’t typically use a Maximalist design style in the spaces we design, we appreciate the fun and boldness that this style can bring into a space. We very often embrace the idea of, “Wunderkammer,” and love to incorporate mementos that clients have collected over the years. Would you ever consider a Maximalist style for your space?