How to Achieve the ‘More is More’ Aesthetic Without Overcrowding
Maximalism. It’s loud, it’s fabulous, and it laughs in the face of minimalism’s ‘less is more’ mantra. But let’s be honest—there’s a fine line between curated chaos and accidental hoarder chic. The goal? Eclectic maximalism done right. The kind of bold, personality-packed decor that looks intentional, sophisticated, and effortlessly cool—not like you lost a fight with a flea market.
Lucky for you, I’ve got the ultimate guide to layering colour, texture, and patterns like an interior design sorcerer. By the time we’re done here, you’ll be confidently mixing prints, stacking textures, and creating a jaw-dropping space that screams ‘I know exactly what I’m doing.’
Let’s get maximalist.
1. Set the Stage with a Bold Foundation
Before you start layering like a maximalist Picasso, your space needs a strong foundation. This could be:
✅ A statement wallpaper—think oversized florals, funky geometrics, or vintage-inspired patterns.
✅ A dramatic wall colour—jewel tones, deep moody hues, or even a perfectly reckless colour clash.
✅ A jaw-dropping rug—the kind that pulls a room together before you even add furniture.
Your foundation should scream “I’m the main character!”—because, well, it is. Everything else you layer on top will look intentional, thanks to this visual anchor.
2. Curate, Don’t Clutter
Maximalism ≠ mindlessly filling every surface like you’re running out of storage. Every single piece should earn its spot. You want:
✅ Conversation starters—unique, weird, vintage, unexpected. If it makes people say “OMG, where did you get that?” you’re on the right track.
✅ A mix of old and new—thrifted treasures, handmade ceramics, contemporary statement pieces. The more diverse, the better.
✅ Visual breathing room—yes, even maximalists need a little negative space (we’ll get to that later).
Bottom line? You’re curating an experience, not stockpiling clutter. Be ruthless.
3. Mixing Patterns: The No-Fail Formula
Mixing patterns is the difference between elite eclectic maximalism and visual whiplash. Follow this rule:
Vary the scale → One bold, oversized print (like a giant floral) + one smaller, more intricate pattern (like a geometric or stripe). Contrast is your best friend.
Stick to a loose colour palette → Pick 3-5 main hues that appear throughout different patterns. Even a riot of prints can feel cohesive with this trick.
Break it up with solids → All patterns, all the time? Chaos. Balance them out with solid colours in key areas (like a bold-coloured sofa with patterned cushions).
Want a foolproof example? Think a floral sofa + striped curtains + a geometric rug—each pattern different, but balanced. That’s how you nail the mix.
4. Textures Are Your Secret Weapon
Maximalism isn’t just about what you see—it’s about what you feel. Layering different textures is what separates curated maximalism from visual overwhelm.
✔ Soft vs. hard → Plush velvet meets sleek lacquered wood.
✔ Shiny vs. matte → Glossy ceramics next to raw, woven rattan.
✔ Rough vs. smooth → A chunky knit throw on a smooth leather chair.
You want a space that feels tactile, inviting, and rich in contrast. If it all feels flat, you’re missing the magic ingredient.
5. Colour Cohesion = The Glue That Holds the Madness Together
Yes, maximalism is wild. But it’s controlled chaos. A random explosion of colour looks messy—a well-chosen palette makes it look intentional.
Pick a few grounding hues—deep emerald, burnt orange, mustard yellow, rich plum. These will appear throughout different decor elements to tie everything together.
Repeat colours strategically—if you’ve got a bold blue cushion, make sure that shade appears in the rug, a piece of art, or a lampshade.
Neutrals are still allowed—Maximalism doesn’t mean rainbow overload. Muted earthy tones (camel, terracotta, off-white) can calm the chaos.
When colour choices look deliberate, even the most eclectic space feels polished.
6. Let Statement Pieces Breathe
Your giant antique mirror? That stunning sculptural floor lamp? Give them space.
Maximalism thrives on bold, standout pieces—but if everything is screaming for attention, nothing gets noticed. Resist the urge to cram. Instead:
✔ Use bold pieces as focal points in the room.
✔ Surround statement items with smaller, complementary accents.
✔ Be intentional about where the eye lands—visual hierarchy is everything.
Less empty space, more curated balance.
7. Master the Art of the Eclectic Gallery Wall
Gallery walls and maximalism are a match made in heaven—but don’t just slap random frames together. Here’s how to make it work:
🖼 Stick to a loose theme (vintage portraits, abstract art, botanical prints).
🖼 Play with frame styles—mix ornate gold, sleek black, and wooden frames for depth.
🖼 Mix in non-art elements (textiles, sculptural pieces, mirrors) for a layered look.
The goal? A collected-over-time vibe—never ‘I bought this all in one go.’
8. Plants: The Ultimate Maximalist Hack
If your maximalist room feels one decor piece away from overwhelming, add plants. They bring:
🌿 A natural contrast to busy patterns.
🌿 Soft, organic shapes to balance sharp lines.
🌿 A calming, alive element that makes everything feel fresh.
Big plants = bold impact. Go for monsteras, fiddle leaf figs, or rubber plants for that effortlessly lush maximalist aesthetic.
9. The ‘More is More’ Shopping Guide
Alright, you’re ready to bring the drama, colour, and layers—so where do you start?
Bold decor pieces → Think sculptural vases, ornate mirrors, funky candles.
Eclectic furniture → Vintage armchairs, curvy coffee tables, statement lamps.
Wall art galore → Oversized prints, gallery walls, unexpected decor (tapestries, sculptures).
This is where you get to have fun—just make sure every piece plays well with others.
Final Thoughts: Maximalism is an Attitude
Maximalism isn’t just a style—it’s a state of mind. Be fearless. Mix with confidence. The secret isn’t ‘less is more’—it’s knowing when to say enough.
So go forth, layer textures, clash prints, pile on the colour, and create a space that feels unapologetically YOU. Because in the world of eclectic maximalism, the only rule is: make it fabulous.
