It’s time to say goodbye to the simplicity of contemporary minimalism and embrace the joy of maximalism. Join Lauren Hugget from our Home Design Studio as she shares how to create this flamboyant, mood-boosting look in your home.

1. Incorporate your personality

Maximalism is all about you. “This is the one trend where you don’t have to conform to a rigid design aesthetic,” explains Lauren. Dopamine decor, as it’s also known, puts your personality front and centre. “It’s about feeling bold, confident and free with your design choices. There’s no style rule book, which is why no two maximalist interiors are the same,” Lauren explains. We were inspired by retro design, the colour-clash aesthetic of pop art and the greenery of a tropical rainforest to create our look.

2. Look for statement pieces

One-of-a-kind pieces can really bring a space to life. ‘We love our George table lamp,” says Lauren . It’s fun, quirky and adds character. After all, why shouldn’t the functional elements of our home be a little whimsical? You can weave this design philosophy through your home, from brightly coloured sofas and unique trinkets to oddly shaped furniture and statement storage solutions.

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3. Pick a pattern or two

Just like colour clashing, pattern clashing is the calling card of any maximalist interior. “We’ve paired a tropical print with bright geometric tiles. It shouldn’t work, but it does. Choose one or two base colours to unite the different elements of your look and you’re good to go,” explains Lauren. For example, you could pair lemon monochrome stripes with lilac gingham or pastel pink with forest green, just like we’ve done here.

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4. Blend your eras and trends

Torn between paying homage to an 80s psychedelic aesthetic and the simple charm of mid-century design? Maximalism lets you have both. ‘Maximalist decor thrives on unlikely pairings,” explains Lauren. Here, a clean-lined oak dining table stands out against a stunning hot coral backdrop with surprising pops of royal blue and lilac. “See where your creativity takes you,” says Lauren. Handcrafted oak furniture right next to glossy modern designs? Go for it. A nod to the art deco movement with industrial style notes? Why not?

5. Layer your textures

The ethos of more is more doesn’t just apply to colour. “Textures can be forgotten, but they’re a crucial part of maximalism’s over-the-top energy,” explains Lauren. Start from the ground up with a colourful rug and then look at your throws, scatter cushions and, finally, the big pieces like armchairs and beds. Feel free to place plush velvets with chunky woven knits and to use both glossy and matte materials. Layering, especially in the bedroom, can create a real sense of depth and adds cosiness to the look.”

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6. Clash your colours

One-of-a-kind pieces can really bring a space to life. ‘We love our George table lamp,” says Lauren . It’s fun, quirky and adds character. After all, why shouldn’t the functional elements of our home be a little whimsical? You can weave this design philosophy through your home, from brightly coloured sofas and unique trinkets to oddly shaped furniture and statement storage solutions.

7. Curate decor you love

There’s a reason maximalism is also known as ‘dopamine decor’. “It’s bright, colourful and sparks joy,” says Lauren. We’ve used home decor and accessories as cheery pops of colour throughout to make this look feel playful. Don’t be afraid to include more trinkets, ornaments, wall art and lighting than you normally would. “I like to think of it as curated clutter. If it speaks to you and makes you happy, there’s a place for it,” suggests Lauren.

8. Make room for metallics

Metals can help make your maximialist interior shine - quite literally. “Mirrors illuminate your space and make it feel bigger,” explains Lauren. Look for designs with quirky or unusual shapes like this circle wall mirror. You can introduce metals through other design features too, like lighting, ornaments and photo frames. “Eclectic maximalist looks always feature metallics as they help break up the riot of colour on display.”

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9. Wake up your walls

In a maximalist interior, walls aren’t just a backdrop: they’re your canvas. Get creative with wallpaper, paint, tiling or murals - anything you can use to make your walls fun and impactful. Then, look to wall art to add your own distinctive personal flair. “Create a gallery wall or go for a single striking design that demands attention,” suggests Lauren.

We hope our maximalism how-to guide has inspired you to be bolder and more playful when curating your own maximalist interior. Don’t forget to share your creations on Instagram with #MyFVHome for a chance to feature on our feed.

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