Love the idea of bold décor but not too sure where to start? These six maximalist style hacks for beginners are a great starting point.
The maximalist décor trend is about big and beautiful. Big splashes of colour, patterns and lots of interesting and different textures. Styled, though – not messy!
So to start with ….
# 1 Think of what the room is for.
When in doubt, go bold! Ever wandered through a market and spotted a large and unusual piece of art, that you love but can’t figure out where to put it? Place it in your living room and let it seep into your psyche. And move it round to other rooms if it doesn’t feel quite right. That’s the beauty of art work, unexpected sculptures and vases – you can move them around to completely change the ambience of a room.
# 2 Mike Fisher of Studio Indigo advises
…. that even small entryways can be grand as well as welcoming! “Be bold is my advice. Painting the space a light color will not make it feel bigger. Use strong color to make a statement and give personality. Large details can open up the space.” And of course, your entrance is the first statement of who you are and what your home will be like.
#3 Patterned wallpaper is popular
Big patterns from florals to animals and birds. I’ve seen some stunning examples on Pinterest and social media. It can turn a room from a bit … erm… beige to WOW. Pick out a couple of colours from your wallpaper and use them in your accessory colours. Choose interesting textiles too, like suede, leather, cashmere and silk, to make the overall effect three dimensional and full of energy
A bit nervous about taking the full plunge? Why not start small with your toilet? Don’t hold back and watch a bland functional space transform.
#4 Don’t fancy bold wall paper?
Consider statement curtains instead.
A big bold design for large windows, and, for small windows, something on a smaller scale for elegance. Think about the colours and what sort of effect you want to create. Deep plums and reds for intimacy, and earthy colours with burnt orange for warmth.
#5 Odd furniture is perfect!
You could have a velvet sofa, a wicker rocker and a deep leather arm chair. Perfectly matched suites are not required. Instead, have a wander through ex-showhome stores, auction rooms, markets and maybe even charity shops. You never know what might catch your eye. You will end up gathering an eclectic mix of pieces, modern and vintage, that you love. And they will work together harmoniously, without that robot perfection!
#6 Layering! Have some fun here.
Big vases next to small ones. Small books stacked onto big ones. Patterned rugs over ones in block colours – or the other way round. Candlesticks of different sizes and colours. Don’t over think it – just go with what feels right. And of course you can change it!
Final word. Gently does it!
Decorate to your tastes, showcasing items you love. Take your time and ignore what everyone else is swooning over. Add to your decor collection when something really says to you ‘you need me in your life’.
My thanks to Kerry Ashby ( of At Home at Walnut Cottage) for the use of pictures of her beautiful cottage.
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