What Is Minimal Maximalism?

Figuring out your interior design style can take some time. You have to get familiar with the different eras of design, determine the shapes, materials, and colors you gravitate toward—and, as always, do some trial and error along the way. Not to mention, there’s a whole glossary of vocabulary terms to learn: Are you more mid-century modern or Japandi? Shabby chic or farmhouse? Minimalist or Maximalist?

So then, when terms like minimal maximalism pop up, you might be scratching your head all over again. However, while this term sounds like an oxymoron, it may actually be the perfect way to describe a design style you couldn’t quite put your finger on. Keep reading for everything you need to know about minimal maximalism.

What Is Minimal Maximalism?

Minimal maximalism, is a fusion of these two design styles. Minimalism is all about the mantra “less is more,” while maximalism practices the “more is more” philosophy. Minimal maximalism, however, fall in between the two ends of the spectrum, using less in some places, and more in others.

For example, if you’re a minimal maximalist, you may prefer for your furniture to have clean lines and prioritize functionality, while also using your textiles to bring in bold colors and patterns. Or, you may want to go for funky, statement furniture, while keeping your color palette more simplistic. Since this design aesthetic is a combination of styles, there are several ways to go about it—you just have to find the formula that works best for you.

How to Decorate in Minimal Maximalist Style

If you’re starting from scratch and you want to decorate your place in minimal maximalist style, then you have a whole world of options in front of you. However, most of us probably already have a number of furniture items or decor that lean in one direction or the other—more minimalist or more maximalist. So, that’s a good place to start.

If your existing pieces have a minimalistic feel—neutral colors, clean lines, simple shapes—then you’ll have a lot of room to build on that foundation. You can add in a patterned or brightly colored rug, add interesting textures with your throw pillows and curtains, and infuse more personality with your wall art and decor.

However, if you already have a lot of statement pieces to work with, then you may, instead, need to figure out how to refine and harmonize your style. Maybe this means going for a more monochromatic color palette that matches your existing pieces or finding some simplistic accent pieces—like side tables—that can help balance everything out.

Ultimately, minimal maximalism is about balance, adding and taking away to arrive at a finished product that feels just right.