2021 has really seen the return of Maximalism embraced. A stark contrast to the minimalist ideals of less is more and feature walls; Maximalism encourages us to paint all of the walls, add in a wallpaper and layer up the colour in the room! A movement in which we are encouraged to express our personality and be daring with our choices.
A Lust for Colour and Bold Designs
To say we are seeing the return of Maximalism isn’t quite true – it has never really gone away. But after years of beige and grey fashion trends, the lust for colour is exploding in the world of interiors and a resurgence of bold, layered schemes is taking over from the minimal Scandi or Japandi styles seen in recent years.
In the world of interiors, fabric companies such as Sanderson have seen a revival of many of their older archive designs – with an increasing trend to compliment floral curtains and cushions, utilising one floral design in the wallpaper, and a different floral pattern in the cushions. Layering textures in soft furnishings and upholstery, combining them with colourful throws and cushions, Maximalism advocates like these businesses, apply the concept of tones on tones, embracing the colour palette, and taking it that one step further than before.
Cole & Son Wallpapers were always ready for this trend, demonstrating their versatility and timelessness. Their whimsical wallpaper designs have enough considered colourways to drop into a room of colour and texture – all ready and waiting. Their contemporary collections have wallpaper designs that are over sixty years old and are still some of our best sellers.
A trend without limitations
If you want to make a visual statement but don’t know how, take it to the next level with room styling – gathering an eclectic mix of wall art is a great start. Don’t be afraid to mix up colour and scale or use images that inspire and connect in a mismatched kind of way! Collected curiosities are a big element of maximalism – embracing the element of interior design where one can showcase a treasure whilst appreciating the personal nostalgia of it because you like it and it ignites a memory or a feeling. House plants, dried flowers, pampas – it’s all welcome in this trend! There doesn’t need to be an empty corner in the room and adding plants is a great way to add texture, soften a corner or break up some unwelcome symmetry by trailing from a shelf.
“I’m a firm believer that Interior Design is a lifelong process. It’s about the journey and the thrill of finding something you love and that never has to stop because you feel your home is done once the pictures are hung and you’ve chosen your furniture” says Matthew Williamson. “Never stop searching, always give into your curiosity, and if you love something, bring it home.” If you love colour whether it is bright tones or dark shades, don’t be afraid, keep going. Maximalism tells us to showcase and tell the story of your favourite things, which in turn reflect you – all together and indulgently.