What is maximalism and how to apply it in your architecture and interior design projects?

Maximalist decor has emerged as a vibrant response to minimalism, challenging traditional notions of space, design, and aesthetics. This style celebrates abundance, the mix of textures, patterns, bold colors, and elaborate ornamentation, offering a creative approach where "less" is definitely not more. In architecture and interior design, maximalism breaks with conventional rules, inviting you to maximize the use of details, combine elements fearlessly, and play with the exuberant and the bold.

Applying the maximalist style to your project means creating spaces full of life, personality, and emotion, where every corner tells a story through the mix of styles, materials, and decorative elements. From choosing vibrant color palettes to incorporating ornate furniture and bold patterns, this approach allows you to design unique environments that break away from the conventional and challenge expectations.

In this post, we will tell you everything you need to know about maximalism, how to integrate it into your architectural and interior design projects, and how to transform your spaces into places full of creativity, energy, and style. Discover how to bring this style to your work to create unforgettable environments!

Differences between minimalism and maximalism

Minimalism and maximalism are opposing styles in design and decor:

- Simplicity vs. abundance. Minimalism seeks to reduce elements to the bare minimum, while maximalism celebrates visual overload and the diversity of objects.

- Color palette. Minimalism uses neutral and soft tones, while maximalism employs vibrant and contrasting colors.

- Use of space. Minimalism leaves spaces empty and clean, while maximalism fills environments with art, furniture, and accessories.

- Patterns and textures. Minimalism prioritizes simple lines and smooth materials, while maximalism fills environments with art, furniture, and accessories.

- Philosophy. Minimalism follows the "less is more" idea, while maximalism follows "more is more."

What the maximalist style aims to convey

The main goal of the maximalist style is to create a space rich in personality, diversity, visual appeal, and individual expression.

- Limitless personal expression. It allows the inhabitants of a space to reflect their identity and tastes in a unique way. Every design element is chosen to tell a personal story.

- Create a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere. Through the mix of colors, patterns, and textures, the goal is to generate an energetic and fun environment that is never monotonous or boring. Every corner invites exploration and discovery of new details.

- Break the rules of traditional design. Maximalism challenges established norms regarding simplicity and order. It celebrates excess and shows that more is more, using variety and abundance of elements.

- Create cozy and character-filled spaces. Instead of leaving empty or minimalist spaces, the maximalist style focuses on filling every corner with furniture and decorative objects that make the atmosphere warm and personalized.

- Mix of styles and eras. Maximalism embraces diversity in design, allowing the fusion of old and modern styles, classic and contemporary. This results in eclectic environments that can include everything from vintage furniture to modern art pieces.

- Celebrate color and texture. In maximalism, colors are not afraid to clash, and textures are combined to provide a rich tactile sensation. Elements are grouped together to create a sense of visual and sensory abundance.

Characteristics of maximalist decor

The maximalist style is a decor style characterized by the use of vibrant colors, bold patterns, and an abundance of furniture and accessories. Unlike minimalism, which favors simplicity and reduction of elements, maximalism celebrates opulence, mixing styles, and limitless personal expression.

- Vibrant and contrasting colors. Intense tones like red, blue, green, and gold are used.

- Layering of patterns and textures. Floral, geometric, and abstract prints are mixed with materials such as velvet, marble, and carved wood.

- Abundance of furniture and accessories. Spaces are filled with decorative furniture, striking lamps, ornate mirrors, and textured rugs.

- Decorative objects in large quantities. Paintings, sculptures, books, plants, and personal keepsakes create an eclectic and welcoming atmosphere.

- Mix of styles and eras. Vintage pieces are combined with modern ones, Baroque elements with Art Deco, or even classical furniture with contemporary art.

- Spaces with lots of personality. Every corner reflects the story and tastes of its inhabitant, with no fear of the extravagant or exaggerated.

Colors of the maximalist style

- Intense and saturated colors. Red, blue, emerald green, mustard yellow, purple, and orange.

- Metallic colors. Gold, silver, copper, and bronze add a touch of luxury and glamour.

- Dark colors. Such as black, charcoal gray, or navy blue, which are paired with brighter tones to create depth.

- Unexpected combinations. Maximalism isn’t afraid to mix colors that would normally not go together, such as pink with orange or green with purple, creating striking and dynamic contrasts.

Patterns in maximalist decor

In the maximalist style, patterns are fundamental for adding dynamism and visual richness to spaces. It also celebrates the mixing and layering of patterns, without fear of excess.

Common patterns in maximalism include:

- Floral. From the most classic and detailed to the more modern and abstract, floral patterns are very popular, especially in upholstery and wallpaper.

- Geometric. Lines, circles, triangles, squares, and bolder patterns are often combined to add depth and texture to a space.

- Stripes. Horizontal, vertical, or diagonal, stripes are often mixed in different directions and colors, creating a sense of movement.

- Animal print. Leopard, zebra, or snake motifs are iconic elements of maximalism, especially when combined with other patterns.

- Ethnic or tribal. Patterns inspired by cultures and traditions from around the world are integrated with other decorative styles to give a global and eclectic touch.

- Abstract. Free forms, color splashes, and more organic patterns add a modern and bold touch to the design.

Maximalism isn’t afraid to mix several patterns in the same room. For example, a floral sofa can coexist with a geometric rug and striped curtains. The key is to choose patterns that, though different, have some coherence in terms of color or style, to avoid making the space feel disordered.

Materials and textures commonly used in maximalism

In maximalist style, materials and textures play a crucial role in creating rich and sensory environments. The idea is to use a wide variety of materials to add depth, luxury, and character to the space.

These are the most notable materials in maximalist decor:

- Velvet. Soft, luxurious, and with a characteristic shine, velvet is used in sofas, cushions, and curtains to add elegance and a unique tactile sensation.

- Marble. This luxurious material is common in surfaces like tables, floors, and decorative details. It pairs well with other materials and adds sophistication.

- Wood. Dark or aged wood, with either glossy or matte finishes, is used for furniture, shelves, and floors, creating a balance with more modern materials.

- Metals (gold, silver, copper). Metallic surfaces, especially in golden and copper tones, are essential for adding a touch of glamour and luxury to the space.

- Glass. Crystal lamps, glass tables, or display cabinets add lightness to the environment while allowing patterns and colors to shine through.

- Leather and hide. Leather, both in natural and dyed tones, is used for sofas, chairs, and accessories, bringing a rich texture and sense of comfort.

As for textures:

- Soft and rich textures. Velvet, silk, linen, and cotton in their various forms are ideal for cushions, curtains, and upholstery.

- Thick and rough textures. Thick wool rugs, large-knit blankets, or handwoven fabrics add a cozy and tactile touch to the environment.

- Reliefs and embroidery. Embroidered or raised details in textiles like cushions, curtains, or upholstery are used to give more visual dynamism.

- Shine and lustre. Elements like lacquered furniture, metallic surfaces, mirrors, and glass add subtle shine, mixing with matte and opaque textures to create visual contrasts.

- Natural stone and ceramics. Painted or glazed ceramics, along with natural stones like marble or limestone, create an organic and solid feel amidst the chaos of soft textures.

How to apply maximalism to your project?

Applying maximalism to your project can be an exciting way to create a space full of personality, creativity, and dynamism. Below are some ideas for incorporating maximalism into any project or room, including using tiles.

- Define your personality and tastes. Before you begin, reflect on the colors, patterns, and elements you love that best represent your style.

- Choose a vibrant color palette. Opt for a bold color palette that combines bright and saturated tones. Don’t be afraid to mix intense colors like red, blue, green, or orange, and you can add metallic touches like gold or copper. The key is to create interesting contrasts.

- Mix patterns and textures. Don’t be afraid to layer patterns, but make sure the patterns have at least something in common (like the color palette or style) so the space doesn’t feel too chaotic.

- Fill the space with unique pieces. Maximalism celebrates an abundance of decorative objects. Choose furniture with personality that stands out, from velvet sofas to extravagant lamps. You can also include details like books, sculptures, plants, or vintage pieces that tell a story.

- Incorporate rich and varied materials. To add depth to the space, play with a variety of materials and textures. Use wood, marble, velvet, leather, ceramics, glass, and metals. These materials not only add a touch of luxury but also provide a tactile sensation that makes the space more interesting.

- Create differentiated zones. In large spaces, you can create separate zones within the same room. Use rugs, furniture, and different color combinations to separate areas for rest, work, or entertainment, while maintaining visual flow and style cohesion.

- Don’t forget balance. Although maximalism seeks abundance, it’s important not to fall into total disorder. Ensure there is coherence in the space so that the elements don’t “fight” each other. You can achieve this by maintaining a common thread in terms of colors or textures repeated throughout the space.

- Be bold and have fun. Maximalism is a style with no fixed rules. The key is to enjoy the process of creating a space that reflects your tastes and story. Don’t be afraid to be bold, experiment, and try new things. Make your space a visual celebration of what you love!

Maximalist bathrooms

The bathroom is a perfect space to experiment with maximalism. Opt for tiles with geometric, floral, or even tropical patterns. For greater visual impact, choose tiles with shiny finishes and intense colors like emerald, cobalt blue, or terracotta. If you want an enveloping effect, cover both the walls and the floor with the same design or mix different patterns with a complementary color palette.

Another way to apply maximalism in the bathroom is by playing with contrasts between tiles of different textures. Mirror-effect or metallic tiles can give a luxurious and sophisticated touch, while relief tiles create an interesting play of shadows and volumes. Also, don’t hesitate to include large-format tiles for a bold, dynamic visual impact.

If you want an even bolder look, you can opt for a mosaic in the shower or a featured wall, combining small tiles of different colors and shapes. It’s also possible to include golden or copper details in the grout lines for a more elegant and sophisticated finish.

To complete your maximalist bathroom design, complement the tiles with vibrant accessories, ornamental mirrors, and faucets with striking finishes like matte black or gold.

Maximalist kitchens: the vibrant heart of the home

Maximalism in the kitchen can be achieved with a bold tile backsplash. Moroccan, Art Deco, or even patchwork-style tiles can completely transform this space. For a more dramatic effect, extend the tiles up to the ceiling or combine different textures and colors to create a unique design. Don’t be afraid to mix abstract tiles with more classic patterns.

In addition to a bold backsplash, you can cover kitchen islands or bars with decorative tiles for an even more personalized look. Tiles with an aged or worn effect can give a vintage feel, while metallic or shiny colors can add a modern touch. For a bolder design, you can use large-format tiles with marked patterns or even ceramic murals that depict scenes or artistic illustrations.

To balance the intensity of maximalism in the kitchen, combine the tiles with simple-lined furniture and natural materials like wood or marble. Lighting also plays a key role: opt for warm lights that highlight the tiles' colors and textures.

Living room: an impactful ceramic mural

In the living room, ceramic tiles can be a key piece in maximalist decor. Consider using them to accentuate a main wall, like the TV wall or the fireplace. Tiles with a three-dimensional effect, reliefs, or vibrant colors will add depth and character to the space. If you prefer a more artistic style, you can create a ceramic mural with mosaics or bold combinations of patterns and colors.

Another option is to incorporate tiles into columns, niches, or even the floor to demarcate certain areas of the living room. Designs in deep tones like emerald, burgundy, or navy blue can bring a sophisticated and dramatic air. If you want a more exclusive touch, combine tiles with metallic or pearlescent details that reflect light and add dynamism to the space.

Complete the decor with velvet-upholstered furniture, large lamps, and striking artwork to enhance the visual impact of maximalism in your living room.

Bedroom: elegance and drama on the walls

While the bedroom is often associated with serenity, a touch of maximalism through tiles can bring sophistication and personality. A great idea is to use them on the headboard of the bed, creating a striking focal point. Nature-inspired designs, with deep tones and golden details, can provide a luxurious and enveloping atmosphere. Another option is to demarcate a specific area, such as a reading nook, with decorative tiles for a cozy and vibrant atmosphere.

For those seeking an even more striking design, tiles can extend across an entire wall or be combined with wooden panels and decorative mirrors. Baroque patterns, with ornamental details and intense colors, are perfect for creating a maximalist bedroom full of character. If you prefer something more modern, tiles with textile effects or metallic finishes can give a fresh twist to the decor.

Accompany the design with rich bedding, heavy curtains, and decorative lamps to accentuate the opulence of maximalism in your bedroom.

Maximalism in architecture and interior design is a celebration of abundance, creativity, and personalization. Far from being a messy style, well-applied maximalism balances textures, colors, and forms to create vibrant, functional spaces full of personality.

By integrating bold patterns, a diverse color palette, and a mix of elements, it can transform any space into a unique environment that reflects your style and vision. Dare to go beyond the conventional and let maximalism inspire your next design projects!