Maximalism: dare to embrace eclectic interior design
A favored playground in the context of a renovation, interior design lends itself to a thousand and one atmospheres—from the most understated to the most extravagant. Maximalism is one of them, and captivates with its deliberately contrarian approach to convention. You’ve likely encountered it on screen, through the whimsical, colorful world of Emily in Paris, or within the boldly styled walls of the iconic Brach Hotel in Madrid, where French sophistication collides with Spanish lifestyle influences.
Ultimately, in maximalism, only emotion and excess truly matter—an unapologetic celebration of personality and sensory delight. It’s with this spirit that we’re eager to share all the essential keys to embracing this style, boldly and without restraint.
What is maximalism?
A movement that defies minimalism and quiet luxury
Between the opulence of Victorian 19th-century interiors and the boldness of early 20th-century avant-garde movements, maximalism draws its roots from a richly layered design heritage. In interior design, it expresses itself through a true aesthetic of excess. Influenced by pop art and the artistic movements of the 1960s and 1970s, the maximalist trend is making a strong comeback in contemporary moodboards. In contrast to minimalism and the ethos of quiet luxury, it asserts itself as a deliberate rebellion against overly restrained interiors.
Embracing a profusion of colors, patterns, and textures, maximalism celebrates layering and unapologetic whimsy. It offers a rich source of inspiration for those undertaking a renovation project—ideal for crafting a singular space that transcends fleeting trends.
Eclecticism: one of maximalism’s many decorative interpretations
Maximalism and eclecticism share closely related approaches, which explains why they are often mistaken for one another. Originally developed as an artistic movement in the mid-19th century, eclecticism extends far beyond the realm of interior design—it also finds expression in art and architecture.
Its core principle lies in blending, or even intentionally clashing, different styles and historical periods to create a composition that is both unexpected and harmonious. Rather than adhering to a singular, codified aesthetic, eclectic interiors emerge from a gradual and intuitive process—assembling decorative objects unearthed through travel, personal experiences, or spontaneous discoveries.
As such, eclecticism is perfectly suited to maximalist interior design, and naturally complements any ambitious home renovation project aiming to tell a unique and emotionally resonant story.
How to create a maximalist and eclectic interior design scheme?
Embrace the art of excess: a dialogue between colors, patterns, and materials
The key to maximalist interior design lies in the deliberate layering and accumulation of all that can captivate the eye.
It begins with the bold use of color, generously applied and unapologetically rich. Rather than clinical neutrals, this aesthetic favors saturated, expressive hues, artfully chosen from across the color wheel. To heighten contrast, it’s common to combine two—even three—strong shades. In maximalism, pink flirts with green, blue dances with orange, from floor to ceiling.
Once the chromatic foundation is in place, it’s time to introduce patterns—true instruments of decorative expression. Walls, whether painted or adorned with a carefully selected wallpaper, become vibrant canvases where motifs assert their personality. Some prints go beyond simple ornamentation; they alter spatial perception. Stripes, for instance, can visually reshape a room: vertical stripes elongate walls and add a sense of height, while horizontal ones broaden the space.
But patterns are not confined to walls. Curtains, cushions, upholstered armchairs, or rugs all offer opportunities to introduce rhythm, contrast, and tactile interplay into a design scheme. Florals evoke a fresh, country-inspired feel; animal prints inject a kitschy, 1980s flair; while geometric patterns bring a graphic, contemporary edge. The possibilities are endless—each interior should find its own visual signature.
To successfully combine multiple patterns—floral, animal, striped—within a single room, ensure they are unified by a cohesive color palette. Avoid a repetitive or cluttered effect by varying their scale: one dominant pattern, complemented by two more understated ones. A smart starting point? Choose a bold wallpaper or statement fabric as your anchor, and draw from its color range to inform the rest of the décor.
More subtle—yet just as essential to a maximalist interior—materials bring depth, movement, and tactile richness to a space. Alternating between glossy and matte finishes, between silky textiles and raw natural fibers, allows for a layered and nuanced aesthetic without visually overwhelming the room.
Statement pieces and collectible furniture: curate a décor that reflects your identity
An eclectic and maximalist interior design scheme begins with thoughtful furniture choices. While there are no strict rules, the idea is to curate a dialogue between standout pieces drawn from various styles and eras. If you're renovating a Haussmann-style apartment with an eclectic vision in mind, consider juxtaposing classical features—like ornate moldings and marble fireplaces—with modern or bohemian furnishings.
Picture, for instance, a colorful velvet sofa adorned with patterned cushions arranged around a mid-century modern coffee table, accompanied by a sculptural Pierre Paulin armchair—all grounded by a large Berber rug. In maximalist interiors, success lies in the details and the authenticity of the pieces selected.
Build your dream cabinet of curiosities over time, combining high-end design houses with emerging artisans, and prioritize objects that carry a story. Hunting for vintage furniture at flea markets is a compelling alternative—ideal for unearthing one-of-a-kind finds, while benefiting from the guidance of design-savvy vendors with a passion for their craft.
4 mistakes to avoid to maintain balance
The creative freedom inherent in maximalist design nevertheless requires careful consideration to ensure a harmonious and cohesive interior.
1. Too many colors, not enough cohesion
Rather than an overwhelming explosion of color, it’s best to opt for a more restrained palette—composed of carefully selected hues and enhanced with subtle tonal variations. This approach helps maintain a clear visual thread while avoiding the sense of overload that can tire the eye and ultimately diminish the impact of the space.
2. Layering without structure
It’s best to structure the space by establishing a focal point around which other elements are arranged. This visual anchor could be a piece of artwork on the wall, a striking mirror, or a uniquely designed piece of furniture—each capable of capturing the eye and setting the tone for the entire room.
3. Forgetting about proportions
In maximalist interiors, abundance should never come at the expense of spatial balance. Too often overlooked, proportions play a crucial role in maintaining visual harmony within a room. An oversized armchair in a small bedroom, or a clutter of tiny objects in a spacious living room, can quickly disrupt the intended aesthetic.
Each piece should be scaled appropriately to the dimensions of the space, and contrasts in size should be used intentionally—not arbitrarily—to create rhythm and structure within the design.
4. Underestimating the power of lighting
Lighting shapes space, reveals materials, and brings colors to life. To achieve this, multiply your light sources: sculptural pendants, graphic wall sconces, and table lamps all contribute to a layered atmosphere. Alternate between direct and indirect lighting to create nuanced moods and highlight your standout pieces.
A large, beautifully framed mirror can also enhance natural light while serving as a striking decorative feature in its own right.
At Maison Kyka, we craft bespoke interiors where design tells a story and evokes powerful emotion. Whether through bold use of color or the careful selection of one-of-a-kind, high-end furnishings, we offer a tailored experience where thinking outside the box is not just encouraged—it’s a guiding philosophy.
Beyond enhancing the value of your property, introducing maximalism into your home has never been easier, thanks to the expert guidance of Maison Kyka’s studio and its interior architects.