Many believe that maximalist design is a joyous response to many years of minimalism restraint.
Creating a distinctive environment infused with maximalist design can be a multi-pronged tool in the operator’s toolbox. It’s capable of wowing clients, attracting and retaining talent, expressing branding, and even balancing risk in a real estate portfolio, according to a multi-location European firm.
What exactly is maximalism and where did it come from?
Maximalism spaces are layered and rich, full of pattern and color and mixed finishes; they play with scale and proportion and aren’t afraid to be fun and eclectic, according to Ruth-Anne McMillan of McMillan Interiors of Dublin.
In addition to wildly juxtaposed colors, patterns and textures, it might also encompass visible collections, art and artifacts sourced over time and travels.
Much like politics, design cycles swing in popularity. Some call the “more is more” mode a response to restraint that many years of minimalism and modern design imposed. Maximalism has been noted as modern design’s expressive side, a style that allows designers more freedom and consumers the opportunity for personal expression.