Chanel Postrel, an interior designer based in Toronto, Canada, understands that maximalism is making a triumphant return in a world that spent the past decade obsessed with minimalist design—clean lines, neutral palettes, and “less is more” ethos. Maximalism isn’t about clutter or chaos; it's a deliberate and artful celebration of bold colors, intricate patterns, and rich textures. The essence of maximalism lies in creating spaces that feel layered, luxurious, and full of personality. If you're ready to embrace this trend, Chanel Margaux Postrel outlines how to master the art of layering colors, patterns, and textures without overwhelming your space.
Maximalism allows for self-expression on a grand scale. In a time when individuality and creativity are prized, people gravitate toward this design philosophy to create spaces that reflect their unique tastes. Chanel Margaux explains that it's not just about filling a room with things; it's about curating a space where every piece, color, and texture tells a story.
Minimalism, with its monochrome palette and bare surfaces, often lacks warmth and can feel impersonal. Maximalism, on the other hand, exudes vibrancy, warmth, and depth. Chanel Postrel understands that the trend’s resurgence is also driven by a renewed interest in vintage and eclectic styles, which often lend themselves well to maximalist interiors. Designers and homeowners alike are moving away from sleek, industrial designs, favoring a more lived-in, collected look.
Color is a crucial component of maximalist design. The key to success is balancing bold hues to create harmony instead of visual overload. Chanel Margaux shares a few tips for mastering color in maximalist spaces:
1. Start with a Base Color Palette: Select a few colors to ground your space. These can be bold—think jewel tones like emerald, green, deep navy, or rich burgundy—but they should work well together. Once you’ve established your base palette, you can begin layering in accent colors.
2. Use the 60-30-10 Rule: A classic interior design trick, the 60-30-10 rule helps maintain balance. Sixty percent of the room should feature your dominant color, 30 percent should incorporate a secondary color, and 10 percent should be reserved for accent colors. This ensures a controlled but vibrant color scheme.
3. Incorporate Contrasting Colors: Maximalism thrives on contrast, so don’t be afraid to introduce opposing colors. Bright yellow paired with deep purple or teal next to burnt orange can create a visually stimulating effect. The contrast draws the eye across the room, making it feel dynamic and lively.
4. Highlight with Metallics: Metallics, such as gold, brass, or silver, can serve as neutral anchors while maintaining the luxe feel of maximalism. Use metallic finishes in lighting fixtures, frames, or accents to add an extra layer of opulence without overwhelming the color scheme.
Patterns are at the heart of maximalist design. The trick to combining patterns is understanding the scale, cohesion, and repetition to avoid visual chaos. Chanel Margaux Postrel outlines how to make patterns work harmoniously:
1. Mix Scales: When layering patterns, consider the scale of each. A room with only large-scale patterns can feel overpowering, while too many small prints can become visually chaotic. Pair large floral or geometric patterns with smaller, more detailed prints like pinstripes or polka dots. This contrast in scale adds depth and complexity to the space.
2. Find a Common Thread: The secret to mixing patterns is to find a unifying element, whether it’s a common color or theme. For example, you might combine a bold floral print with a striped rug if both contain similar hues. The common color will tie the patterns together, making the room feel cohesive rather than disjointed.
3. Limit the Number of Patterns: While maximalism encourages bold choices, too many competing patterns can overwhelm a space. A good rule of thumb is limiting yourself to three patterns in a room. These can be repeated in different areas of the space, creating a sense of unity while maintaining variety.
4. Play with Geometry: Geometric patterns such as chevrons, hexagons, and stripes are versatile tools in maximalist design. These angular patterns can structure an otherwise bold and busy room, giving the eye something predictable to rest on.
Layering textures is where maximalism truly shines. Textures add sensory interest, creating a room that invites touch as much as visual admiration. Chanel Postrel shows how to work with textures in maximalist spaces:
1. Mix Soft and Hard Materials: A room that’s too plush can feel overwhelming, while one with too many hard surfaces may feel cold. Maximalist design thrives on the interplay between opposites. Mix velvet upholstery with metal fixtures or add a sleek leather chair to a room full of fluffy textiles. The contrast creates a rich, tactile experience.
2. Incorporate Natural Materials: Natural elements like wood, stone, and rattan add an organic, grounding effect in maximalist rooms. These materials also provide a neutral backdrop for brighter colors and patterns. A wooden coffee table or wicker accent chair can break up bold prints and patterns, offering a moment of visual relief.
3. Layer Rugs, Pillows, and Throws: Layering textiles such as rugs, pillows, and throws is a hallmark of maximalist interiors. Consider placing a bold, patterned rug over a larger, neutral one to create depth on your floors. Similarly, layer pillows of various textures—think velvet, silk, and wool—for a sumptuous, inviting space.
4. Vary Textural Finishes: Combining matte and glossy finishes can elevate the look of your space. For example, a high-gloss lacquered coffee table paired with a matte ceramic vase creates a subtle yet sophisticated contrast.
The beauty of maximalism lies in its ability to tell a story. Unlike minimalism, which often values form over personal expression, maximalism encourages you to fill your space with meaningful objects. Display your favorite art, collect vintage pieces, or showcase travel memorabilia to infuse your home with your unique personality. Chanel Margaux Postrel understands that the key is to curate, not clutter. Every item should have a place and purpose within the overall design.
Mastering maximalist design involves a careful balance of color, pattern, and texture, all while allowing your personality to shine through. Chanel Margaux Postrel emphasizes that you can create a layered and livable space by keeping an eye on scale, repetition, and cohesion. Whether you’re ready to dive into bold colors or simply want to experiment with mixed patterns and textures, maximalism offers a fresh, fun, and highly personalized approach to interior design.
