How to Achieve Restful Maximalism: More Isn't Always More
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Restful Maximalism: Why More Isn't Always More
Maximalism. More is more. An eclectic mix of colour, pattern, texture, and lots of stuff. But is it possible to embrace the maximalist style while still maintaining a restful and calming space? Absolutely! It’s all about balance. It’s about pushing the boundaries to the very edge, but not hurtling right over.
Maximalism isn’t just about throwing everything into a room and hoping it works. When done right, it can create a space that feels vibrant and lived-in, but still comfortable and inviting. A successful maximalist room invites you in, wrapping you in comfort, not overwhelming your senses. So how do we achieve this balance?
Start with a Cohesive Colour Palette
The first mistake I see in maximalist design is throwing too many unrelated colours into the mix. Colour should still work together harmoniously. You can use a bold, multi-layered palette, but the key is cohesion. I highly recommend checking out my other blog post on colour harmony if you’re not sure how to do this: The Art of Colour Harmony in Interior Design.
One easy way to find this balance is by starting with a statement piece like a wallpaper mural. Many of my murals feature a main colour, with accents that naturally complement it. This allows you to choose a scheme that works for your space. You can pick up the colours you love from the mural and build your palette around it, or if you already have a colour scheme in mind, find a mural that enhances and ties the space together. For example, if your room is mainly navy and white, a mural with subtle hints of blues and greys, or even contrasting colours like orange or mustard, can add richness without disrupting the calm feel.
Balance Bold Patterns with Neutrals
Maximalism loves patterns – florals, geometrics, stripes – and they can coexist beautifully in the same space. But for the room to feel restful, you need balance. Patterns in maximalist spaces can become overwhelming when they compete for attention, so a mix of large and small-scale prints works best.
Neutral backgrounds like cream, grey, or soft beige can act as the blank canvas that lets bolder patterns breathe. This keeps the room from becoming too chaotic, while still achieving that rich maximalist vibe. In this client’s living room for instance, we used neutrals as a base to allow the intricate details of the original artwork wallpaper mural to shine through without overwhelming the space.
Layer Texture to Add Depth
In maximalism, texture is as important as colour and pattern. Layering different textures – velvet, linen, wood, brass – brings depth and variety to a space, making it feel lived-in and welcoming rather than cluttered. Opt for soft, tactile textures in throws, cushions, or rugs to add warmth and softness to the room, creating a sense of comfort and ease.
Be Intentional with Your Décor
The difference between maximalism and clutter is intention. Every item in the room should have its place and purpose. While you can absolutely fill your space with treasures and personal pieces, a maximalist room should feel curated, not crowded. One way to ensure this is to group similar objects together – such as a cluster of framed artwork on the wall or a collection of vintage vases on a mantelpiece – rather than scattering them randomly.
Think about how you arrange your furniture as well. Maximalist rooms benefit from intentional placement that encourages flow, creating areas for rest and conversation rather than having furniture that fights for space.
Maximise Comfort, Not Just Aesthetic
At the heart of restful maximalism is comfort. Pile up the cushions, layer the throws, and invest in a plush sofa or armchair. The physical comfort in a maximalist room is what allows you to enjoy its bold, lively aesthetic without feeling overwhelmed. If the space is inviting and comfortable, the visual stimulation feels energising, not exhausting.
Creating Your Perfect Maximalist Space
Maximalism doesn’t have to be overwhelming – when done right, it can create a space that’s bold, vibrant, and uniquely you, while still offering that much-needed sense of calm. By thoughtfully balancing colours, patterns, and textures, and incorporating intentional décor choices, you can enjoy the beauty of maximalism without sacrificing comfort or serenity.
If you're looking for ways to tie your space together, my wallpaper murals are a great place to start. Whether you want to build a colour scheme from scratch or find a mural that complements your existing palette, my designs offer the flexibility and inspiration to create your dream interior. Explore my collection of artworks and murals to find the perfect piece for your restful maximalist space.