Maximal décor is in, but how do you make it functional? Tips that won’t fail you

Maximalist homes, especially living spaces, celebrate life through colour, texture, layering, and more. (Picture Credit: Pexels)

When it comes to home interiors, some prefer clean, uncluttered designs, while others embrace a maximalist style that makes a room look vibrant. Contrary to minimalism, maximalist homes, especially living spaces, celebrate life through colour, texture, layering, and more. To some, it may feel like chaos, but it’s actually intentional and carefully curated.

Shailly Mandiwal, Home Furnishing Leader at IKEA India, said, “Maximalism as a trend is often misunderstood as throwing everything into a room without thought. True maximalism is careful curation. It’s all about layering what you love in a polychromatic way with bold colours, textures, and patterns that come together naturally.”

“This could look like a mix of prints and patterns for wallpaper, rugs, and flooring, while keeping the furniture and lighting simple to balance it out. Or it could be an interplay of bold hues that make your books, art, and artefacts come alive,” she added.

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While you go maximal, it is equally important to ensure that your décor is functional. Hence, what matters is making smart design choices that add value to your space. “Multifunctional furniture pieces like pouffes double up as storage for throws, magazines, or even spare pillows, bringing a sense of order without taking away from the room’s personality,’ she pointed out.

Practical choices also matter. They not only enhance the beauty of a room but can be put to multiple uses. She said, “Versatile trolleys or compact organisers can move seamlessly from one room to another, holding anything from décor accents to party essentials, making them as practical as they are stylish.”

So, while you’re carefully decorating your home with pieces of furniture, think of items that can serve a dual purpose yet remain convenient to use, from bookshelves to side tables.

“If you are looking at going the maximalist route to style your home for the holiday season, remember that clever storage, functional furniture, and thoughtful organisers are your best friends. Maximalism is all about personality, and when it’s practical too, every detail shines through,” Shailly concluded.

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FAQs on maximal decor:

Q: What is maximal decor?
A: It’s a bold, layered design style that celebrates color, pattern, and personality—more is more!

Q: How is it different from clutter?
A: Maximalism is curated; every item has meaning or visual harmony, not random mess.

Q: Can small spaces handle maximal decor?
A: Absolutely! Use bold colors, layered textures, and mirrors to create depth without overcrowding.

Q: Do all colors have to match?
A: No, but they should complement each other. A unifying color or theme keeps the look cohesive.

Q: How do I start with maximal decor?
A: Begin with one statement piece—like art or wallpaper—and build around it with textures and accents you love.