Maximalism in Interior Design: A Guide to Maximalist Style

What Does Maximalism Mean Today?

From "More is More" to "Tidy Maximalism"

Maximalism in interior design has undergone a shift in recent years. Once upon a time it meant exuberant clutter and bold chaos, but today’s maximalist style has refined its ethos and is only getting more popular. The phrase “more is more” still rings true, sure, but now it’s often balanced with intentionality. This newer take, sometimes called “tidy maximalism”, favours curated abundance over unstructured excess. It’s more about bold colour palettes and layered textures, but with a considered eye. In maximalist homes, every object has a story, and every print a place.

Rather than overwhelming the senses, modern maximalism invites them in. It’s about embracing personality and play without sacrificing harmony. Whether you’re styling a gallery wall or going for contrast by mixing antique finds with contemporary prints, the goal is a space that feels vibrant, expressive, and lived-in, not chaotic.

Key Elements: Colour, Pattern, Texture & Layering

At the heart of the maximalist aesthetic are four key components: colour, pattern, texture, and layering. Rich jewel tones, clashing prints, velvet upholstery, and eclectic wall art; these are the building blocks of a room that tells a visual story. In maximalist interiors, it’s not unusual to see a floral wallpaper paired with a striped rug and bold framed art prints all in one glance. It’s a style that embraces fun, and lets you put disparate things that you like all together in one place! 

Layering is what gives the whole thing depth. A maximalist gallery wall might combine vintage posters, framed art prints, mirrors, tapestries, and sculptural pieces; using objects that you might not think go in a gallery wall. The style thrives on contrast, nostalgia, and creativity, rewarding those willing to take visual risks.

This approach makes maximalism one of the most personal and versatile design trends, allowing for both expressive individuality and aesthetic impact. For those seeking an antidote to minimalism’s restraint, maximalist décor offers a chance to design without limits.

Why Prints Matter in a Maximalist Home

Choosing Prints That Stand Out

In maximalist interiors, wall art isn’t just decorative but works more like a centrepiece. The right print can elevate a space, introduce a new colour story, or inject just the right amount of drama. Look for bold compositions, unusual subjects, or pieces that play with texture and tone; whether that’s a riot of colour, an intricate line drawing, or a richly detailed fine art reproduction. 

Framed art prints offer a more elevated finish than posters and help define your aesthetic without overwhelming it. You could go for large-scale abstracts (like a colour-matched Rothko), vivid fauvist prints (you can’t go wrong with this Matisse), or moody figurative work that holds its own within a layered setting. Follow your gut!

Mixing Styles: Vintage, Contemporary & Statement

Maximalist homes thrive on contrast, so don’t be afraid to hang a 19th-century botanical (did someone say Audubon’s birds?) next to a Pop Art portrait. In fact, the more visually eclectic your gallery wall, the more personality it exudes. Juxtapose vintage etchings with surreal contemporary prints or pair a bold photographic poster with a museum-quality art reproduction.

The key is to trust your eye. You want to curate around feeling, not formula. When layered together with confidence, these clashing styles create a lived-in, expressive energy that’s the heart of maximalism. And best of all, it will be authentically you. That’s what’s important.

Transforming Your Space with Maximalist Principles

Gallery Walls That Don't Overwhelm

Maximalism doesn’t mean chaos, it means intentional layering. A well-built gallery wall can act as a visual anchor, even in the busiest of rooms. The trick is to plan your layout in advance: mix sizes, orientations, and frame styles, but keep a through-line or theme to guide you. That could be a colour palette, subject matter, or overall mood. Be creative! 

Start with one or two statement prints, then build outwards using smaller supporting pieces. This way, the wall tells a story without becoming too cluttered.

Pairing Prints with Bold Textures & Accessories

While we might be biased, we know that prints can’t do all the work, they shine brightest when set against tactile interiors. This might mean embroidered cushions beneath a surrealist poster, or a velvet sofa placed under a floral print. Maximalism encourages sensory variety, and wall art is part of that layering, but not all of it.

Pair your art with curved mirrors, patterned lampshades, or vintage ceramics. You can choose anything that adds visual interest and makes the print feel like part of a bigger scene- have fun with it! Collect trinkets on holiday, tie them into your space.

Harmonising Colour & Pattern

To avoid visual fatigue, the most effective maximalist rooms work within a controlled palette. Choose two or three dominant tones from your favourite prints, whether emerald greens, terracotta reds, or dusty pinks, and repeat them throughout your space via cushions, rugs, and upholstery. 

Layering patterns also works best when you vary the scale: combine a tightly packed floral with a broad geometric, or a swirling abstract with a soft stripe. Let your prints guide you and they’ll often provide the palette and motif of inspiration to echo elsewhere.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Over-Clutter

When More Becomes Too Much

Maximalism is often misunderstood as simply piling things on. But when every wall, shelf and corner is stuffed to the brim and shouting for attention, the space can start to feel overwhelming. The key isn’t to add more but to add with purpose, be more picky! Ask yourself: does this item add anything authentic to the room? No? Then replace it with something that does! 

One common mistake is ignoring negative space. Your eye needs room to rest. A few carefully spaced blank areas can actually enhance the impact of your prints, furniture and textures. Think of it as breathing room, not missed opportunity.

The Role of Curation in Maximalism

Good maximalism is always curated. Even if your space looks eclectic and spontaneous, there’s likely a logic behind it. Whether it’s a repeating colour, a thread of botanical themes, or consistent frame choices, small design decisions tie everything together. 

Curation is also about knowing when to edit. Swap out prints seasonally, rotate what’s on display, or shift frames between rooms to refresh the energy. This keeps your space dynamic without it becoming saturated.

Final Thoughts from The Animato Team

Maximising Impact Without Losing Home

Remember, maximalism isn’t about clutter, it’s about intention. It’s about surrounding yourself with colour, texture and creativity in a way that feels energising but, above all, personal to you. The best maximalist interiors aren’t showrooms; they’re lived-in spaces layered with meaning, memory and personality.

Whether you’re building a bold gallery wall or layering prints with rich textiles and vintage finds, the aim is to reflect your own visual story. With a thoughtful approach to styling and curation, maximalism can bring warmth and vibrancy to your home without ever feeling like too much.