How to Do Maximalist Interior Design

Maximalist interior design is making a strong comeback, offering a refreshing alternative to the simplicity of minimalism. It’s a style that encourages bold colours, rich textures and personal expression, transforming spaces into vibrant, layered environments full of character.

This blog explores how to embrace maximalism with confidence, whether you’re looking to overhaul your entire home or simply add statement touches to individual rooms.

What is maximalist interior design?

Maximalist interior design is all about embracing abundance. Unlike minimalism, which favours simplicity and pared-back styling, maximalism celebrates layers of colour, texture, pattern and personality. It’s a design approach that invites you to surround yourself with the things you love, such as artwork, books, bold furniture and curated collections, and to make a statement in your space.

Far from being chaotic, good maximalist design is intentional and expressive. It’s not about cramming every surface with clutter, but about creating depth, richness and visual interest. Think eclectic prints, saturated hues, contrasting textures and meaningful details that tell your story. Every item has a place, and every corner offers something to discover.

At its heart, maximalism is a celebration of individuality. Whether it’s a mix of vintage and modern, a gallery wall packed with character or a brightly coloured door that anchors the space, the style invites creativity and confidence. There are no strict rules with maximalist interiors, just a commitment to bold, joyful design.

How to do maximalist interiors room by room

Maximalist design doesn’t have to take over the entire house. It can be introduced gradually or focused on specific areas, allowing each room to tell its own story. From rich colours and layered textures to bold furniture and unique accessories, maximalism invites creativity and personal expression in every corner. Here’s how to bring the style to life, one room at a time.

Living room

The living room is a great space to experiment with maximalist design. It’s often the heart of the home and naturally lends itself to layered, expressive interiors. You should start with a bold foundation – think rich wall colours, patterned wallpaper or a large statement rug – and build from there.

Mixing furniture styles works well in a maximalist space. You can combine vintage pieces with contemporary designs, and don’t be afraid to use contrasting textures. This could include velvet sofas, lacquered side tables and woven throws all layered together. A key feature of a maximalist space can be display shelves that you can fill with books, art, ceramics or collected curiosities that reflect your personality.

Lighting also plays a key role in a maximalist living room. You can mix floor lamps with bold overhead lighting or sculptural pieces to add dimension and warmth. And for a final touch, a striking internal door can help tie the room together, whether through colour, finish or an interesting design that complements the space.

Kitchen

The kitchen might not be the first place you think of for maximalist design, but it’s a space where bold choices can have real impact. Colour is a powerful starting point – you could opt for vibrant cabinetry, patterned tiles or painted walls that break away from traditional neutrals.

Open shelving in a kitchen offers a chance to display your collections, from ceramics and glassware to cookbooks and decorative pieces. You can layer textures through materials such as marble, wood, brass and glazed tiles to create depth and visual interest.

Statement lighting, such as oversized pendants or a mix of different fixtures, adds personality, while patterned flooring or colourful rugs can introduce warmth and contrast underfoot. Even practical items, such as utensils and small appliances, can contribute to the overall aesthetic when chosen with character and colour in mind.

Bedroom

In a maximalist bedroom, comfort should combine with creativity. You can start with rich, inviting colours on the walls or in your bedding to create a cosy, layered feel. Mix and match patterns – this could include florals, geometrics or even animal prints – to add depth without overwhelming the space.

Textures are key in the bedroom: think plush velvet cushions, chunky knit throws and soft rugs underfoot. You should make sure to personalise the room with artwork, framed photos and treasured objects that bring character and a sense of calm.

Your bedroom furniture doesn’t have to match perfectly; a statement vintage chair or an ornate bedside table can add charm and interest. You should layer your lighting, combining bedside lamps, fairy lights or statement pendants to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere that reflects your style.

Bathroom

Maximalist interior design can transform the bathroom from a purely functional space into a stylish retreat. Bold colours on the walls or tiles, such as deep greens, rich blues or patterned wallpapers, will add instant character and can be an easy way to achieve the maximalist style.

You should aim to incorporate a mix of textures, such as matte and glossy finishes, natural stone or brass fixtures to create visual depth. Open shelving or decorative trays are a great way to display scented candles, plants and beautiful toiletries, turning everyday items into part of the décor.

Don’t shy away from statement mirrors or eye-catching lighting to add drama and personality. Even small details, such as patterned towels or colourful accessories, can enhance the maximalist feel while keeping the space practical.

Hallway

The hallway is the perfect place to make a bold first impression with maximalist design. You can use striking colours or patterned wallpaper to add drama and set the tone for the rest of the home. Layering textures through rugs, runners or textured wall panels will help to create warmth and interest.

The hallway offers the perfect canvas to incorporate eclectic artwork, mirrors and decorative lighting, so you can bring personality and light into what can often be a narrow or overlooked space. Stylish storage solutions, such as vintage cabinets or open shelves, will allow you to display treasured items without cluttering the area.

Final tips for embracing maximalist interior design

Embracing maximalism can feel like a bold leap, but it doesn’t have to happen all at once. Starting small allows you to experiment and build confidence. For example, you could try introducing one statement piece, like a vibrant armchair, a patterned rug or an eye-catching piece of art, and then gradually add layers of colour, texture and pattern as you become more comfortable. This slow and steady approach will help you to avoid a cluttered or overwhelming look, and give each addition time to find its place and contribute to the overall harmony.

Successful maximalist design is all about trusting your instincts. This style should echo your personal expression, so it’s important to choose items and combinations that resonate with you, rather than following strict trends or rules. Your home should feel authentic, reflecting your personality, passions and stories. Don’t be afraid to mix unexpected patterns or styles if they appeal to you – remember, maximalism thrives on individuality and confidence.

Even though maximalism celebrates abundance, you should still edit with intention. A truly successful maximalist space is carefully curated, not simply filled with everything at hand. You might need to regularly review what you display and only keep what adds meaning, value or beauty to the room. This balance between richness and order ensures your interiors feel layered and dynamic without becoming chaotic, creating a space that’s both inspiring and comfortable to live in.

JB Kind has a huge range of interior doors in a variety of styles, colours, and finishes, perfect for your maximalist interiors. Download our brochure or contact us to find out more.