What is maximalism? Learn more about this growing trend

“More is more”; Perhaps this is a good expression to define maximalism. Unlike minimalism, this trend values ​​exaggeration, bright, vibrant colors and the layering of elements. And do you know how this movement was born?

How was maximalism born?

Maximalism was idealized and implemented by architect Robert Venturi, who stated that “Less is boring” or “Less is boring”. Venturi first mentioned this expression in his book “Complexity and Contradiction in Architecture” (1866). Over time, the trend has been adopted by many architecture and decoration professionals, the opposite of minimalism. In fact, many believed that the trend was a way of personalizing and making an environment unique, marking the client’s personality and, therefore, creating a completely exclusive space.

What are the main characteristics of maximalism?

As we said earlier, the tendency is towards the art of exaggeration; and, for this to happen, certain factors compose it. Mixing styles, harmony, diverse compositions, filling empty spaces, using elements that convey the client’s personality and, perhaps most importantly, choosing temporary furniture and decorations – this allows for personalization whenever the client wants (after all, we’re not always the same, are we?).

How to create a maximalist environment?

Now that you know the characteristics of maximalism, it’s time to put it into practice in your project. First, understanding the customer’s needs and tastes is essential to creating a fully personalized environment. After that, pay attention to these questions:

1. Use colors and their complements

Remember that harmony is a fundamental piece. Choosing a single vibrant color or color palette with a complementary composition will transform the room. Color is essential to bring the project to life and convey comfort, even if it is an exaggerated environment. Therefore, use them responsibly.

2. Fill in empty spaces strategically

Unlike minimalism, empty spaces must be filled. Paintings, photographs, objects, mirrors can be good solutions; In fact, don’t worry too much about their alignment – ​​it could be the detail that sets the project apart.

3. Use decorative objects that tell stories

To convey personality, the choice of objects that represent it will make a big difference. Objects that represent phases of the customer’s life, collectors and individual tastes can be prioritized. Making him feel embraced by his own memories increases the feeling of belonging to the environment.

4. Browse styles

Don’t get attached to just one artistic phase. If you interact with the client’s needs, use elements ranging from baroque to post-modern. This will be ideal for creating an exclusive environment.

Fun Room Project, with designer furniture, such as the classic Chesterfield sofa, Panton chairs, Kartell lamp and contemporary artworks collected from all over Europe, via Casa Vogue.

And what about consumerism in this matter?

One of the concerns about this trend is whether it will encourage rampant consumerism, but be aware that this is not necessarily true. Many maximalist projects can use items that are already a part of the client’s life, which helps create a unique space. In addition, even when looking to use objects that tell stories, recycling elements remains a good solution. Visiting antique stores can be an excellent solution to avoid over-stimulating production.