Maximalist home decor is all about embracing an abundance of things. We do this through layering colour, pattern and texture to create spaces full of personality and joy. It’s not clutter but a curation of the things you love, telling your unique story through bold and expressive interior design.
For us, maximalism ties directly into our mission to fill homes with a whole lotta love. We believe thoughtful design and decoration with items that bring us joy, wonder and calm can foster a true sense of comfort, belonging and home.
Feeling bold? Here are the key facets of maximalist decor and some ideas for bringing the look to life in your own space.
The Core Tenets of "More is More" in Home Design
Bold Colour Palettes
Nothing lifts a space (or the soul) quite like colour and lots of it. Maximalist interiors embrace rich saturated hues and daring unexpected colour combinations that turn every surface into a joyful expression of personality. Instead of a single accent colour, layer in a spectrum of tones. We love to mix vibrant brights (think fuchsia, cobalt and mustard) with earthy shades (like ochre, sienna and clay) for depth and balance. Don’t be afraid to clash or experiment–sometimes the most surprising pairings create the most striking and memorable rooms.
We love looking to the past for retro colour palette inspiration. There’s something inherently feel-good and homey about those nostalgic tones. Mid-century brights like cherry red, cobalt blue and sunshine yellow bring instant energy and fun to a space. Pair them with avocado greens, burnt oranges or warm browns to channel a true ’70s vibe. For a more subtle take, temper bright colours with creamy neutrals and timber accents for a look that feels both retro and refreshingly modern.
Need more colour inspiration? Here are some of our favourite bold and subtle colour combinations that work.
Layering Textures and Patterns
Successful maximalist interiors find the decor sweet spot by artfully layering textures and patterns, creating visual interest and adding depth. The key is in the contrasts. Smooth with tactile, matte with shiny and organic with structured. Pair velvet with linen, woven seagrass and smooth resin, earthy jute with dark timber floors, chunky knits with lustrous silk, polished concrete with tufted wool. Each new finish layered in brings its own personality to a space.
Patterns are similar: florals, checks, stripes and animal prints may seem unlikely bedfellows, but when layered thoughtfully create a beautifully dynamic, collected feel. The trick is to play with contrast. Try pairing bold, oversized motifs with finer, more delicate prints to keep the balance, or mix organic shapes like florals with structured geometrics for added tension and interest. Varying the scale and colour palette helps everything feel intentional rather than overwhelming.
Curated Collections
Maximalism isn’t about covering every surface with stuff, it’s about surrounding yourself with pieces that spark joy and carry special meaning. Curate artful little collections of objects, art, vessels, books, family heirlooms, souvenirs and personal mementos that tell your story and bring soul to the space. At Sage x Clare, we’ve always valued treasures and keepsakes collected over a life well-lived, objects that speak to memory, joy and individuality. A reminder: decorating is a journey, not a destination. So take your time and curate with intention. This will ensure your space feels rich and layered, while still deeply personal.
Mixing Eras and Styles
Maximalist home decor celebrates the eclectic, unexpected and quirky, meaning there are no rules when it comes to mixing eras and styles in your decor. Antiques, mid-century designs, retro fittings and contemporary pieces can all sit side-by-side creating that layered, lived-in look we adore.
Some combinations we keep coming back to in our photoshoot styling include a sleek modern bedside table finished with a retro floral lamp, a feature modern coffee table styled with stacks of well-worn books, eclectic ceramics and glassware or an antique sideboard topped with home bar essentials anchored by modern art. Together, these contrasts create a home that feels collected over time and bursting with character.
Embracing Ornamentation
The fun is in the details. Maximalist interiors never shy away from tactile richness, embellishments and unique finishes to take a room from basic to breathtaking. From hand tufting, punch needling, tassels, trims and intricate embroidery, every playful detail, big or small, is worth embracing.
Dial up the drama with oversized light fixtures, ornate mirrors, textural ‘touch-me’ rugs, bold artwork and statement hardware. Layer patterns, textures and trims with abandon and you can’t go too far wrong. Let your personality be your guide–choose only pieces you love and the space will always feel good, no matter how bold and abundant.
Beyond Clutter: The Intentionality of Maximalism
A common misconception about maximalism is that it equals a disorganised space, overflowing with clutter. In reality, it’s quite the opposite. For maximalism to work, purposeful layering requires a keen eye, the ability to edit and pare back when needed. We like to think of it as ‘curated chaos’–spaces that feel full yet cohesive, brought to life through the thoughtful arrangement of finishes, fittings and objects, all tied together by a unifying theme or colour story.
How can I curate my chaos? We suggest beginning with a statement foundation piece (like a rug, artwork, light fitting or wallpaper). Next, gradually layer in other furniture and decor, ensuring each new piece contributes to the overall aesthetic. Remember to leave some pockets of negative space to allow hero pieces to breathe and shine. Edit and refresh whenever it feels right. A home isn’t a finished product, but a forever work in progress (just like us!).
Expressing Your Unique Story Through Maximalist Decor
One of our favourite things about maximalist decor is no two rooms are ever the same–it’s such a powerful tool for self-expression. Showcase your personality, passions and experiences through your decorative choices. After all, why shouldn’t our homes be as unique, interesting and beautiful as the people and moments that fill them?
Weave in travel souvenirs, collectibles, family heirlooms, op shop finds, children’s clay creations, marketplace treasures or art made by loved ones to tell your unique story. Our handcrafted wall hangings, rugs, embroidered cushions and hand-poured resin are each one of a kind–perfect for building a rich and personality-packed maximalist dream space.
Embracing "More is More": A Journey, Not a Destination
Maximalist decor isn’t static; it’s a wild, ever-evolving reflection of you. The beauty of a ‘more is more’ philosophy lies in the joy of continually building your collection, layering in new elements and reworking your artful arrangements again and again. Play. Break rules. Embrace the chaos.
Ready to dive into the world of abundance? Explore Sage x Clare's latest collection and uncover distinctive pieces that bring joy to everyday while celebrating your unique style.