There used to be some snobbery about mixing styles in your home, or not decorating it in line with the age of your property or its architectural style. But though a refined, neutral palette is recommended for selling property, once the ink dries on the contracts, you get free rein to unleash your creativity, so why not pick a decorating style that suits your personality?

Maximalism is the latest interior design trend to inspire property owners, in particular, Millennials and first-home buyers - who are now catching up with Baby Boomers in numbers, according to the 2021 Census results - to "curate their own space".

Maximalism sits at the other end of the spectrum from Minimalism and Millennials love it!

Where Minimalism is a "less is more" approach that proposes clean lines and a monochromatic palette, Maximalism is about indulgence, about "more is more". It is about celebrating the power of colour and possessions that have a history or meaning to the owner in a sustainable way.

It is easy to understand why the energy of this style suits Millennials, many of whom are seeking to prioritise their mental health after the impact of COVID and prepare themselves (potentially) for a recession. In a climate of uncertainty, filling their homes with personal pieces that “spark joy” and reflect their personality rather than adhering to Marie Kondo’s strict recommendations, is a no-brainer.

Maximalism is also undoubtedly a rebuff against a decade of Minimalism with its clinical décor, not to mention the impracticality of the style for young families. When people have been locked in their homes for two years with little to do or spend their money on - other than homewares - they will look for some way to compensate for that loss of their freedom, and many of them are finding it in self-expressionism.

There's nothing new about Maximalism

While Maximalism is the latest interior design trend, it isn't a new trend. "Wealthy people throughout history have practised forms of Maximalism as ways to showcase their riches," points out Alessandra Wood in an article in The Spruce. But fortunately, the style isn't only reserved for the rich because it doesn't require new or costly decorator items. Ultimately, its success comes from the careful curation of old and new possessions and pieces.

How do you create a Maximalist home?

Simply put, this style is about indulgence, but balanced indulgence. An old-fashioned definition of what makes a Maximalist home is a collection of “curiosities”. Books, travel “trophies”, artworks, rugs and plants are what make this look work, and if we look back to the past for inspiration, the Victorians and their love of wallpaper, rich colours and fabrics and objets d’art, were some of the best architects of this style.

Maximalism is the perfect interior design style for Millennials and first-home buyers who want to take back some control in their lives.

However, lovers of this look will require an eclectic eye because there's more to it than simply throwing a mishmash of artefacts and furniture together. There is real skill involved. And even though the end result may look like something cultivated by academics, i.e., the kooky kitschiness of a chaotic mind, successfully layering precious objects is a talent.

7 things you need for this style:

1. Boldness – You must be confident with colour and pattern, whether it’s on your walls, in your soft furnishings, or even on your ceilings.
2. Passion – You need a passion for things you love and the confidence to blend them together to create a truly unique space.
3. Books and artworks – These are a prerequisite. This is the time to create that gallery on your wall and to fill your bookcases with love. Shelves crammed full of mementos and books will add depth to your scheme. The less contrived and ordered they are, the better the result.
4. A talent for layering – This style is all about layering, whether that’s with throws and cushions on your sofas, rugs on your floors or wallpaper and bold colours on your walls.
5. Statement pieces – "Maximalist interiors are a great place to use something odd that would stand out too much otherwise,” designer Chad Graci tells The Spruce. Let your imagination run wild and fill your space with colourful rugs, large pots, trunks and gaudy chandeliers you find at your local flea market.
6. Vintage and recycled decorator items – People were less afraid of colour and opulence in the past, so vintage furniture and decor are perfect for this style. Think rich velvet sofas, wing-backed leather armchairs and coloured glass. Source the pieces from your local antique shop, market or online stores like Gumtree and eBay.
7. "Green fingers" – Successful interior design is about contrasts and not only do plants bring the outside in, but they also help neutralise the drama of bright colours.

“Millennial maximalism offers a different way of looking at things… a collection of joyful, personal, and perhaps complicated things that tell the story of one’s life,” says Rebecca Jennings in Vox.

The highlight of your journey to owning a property is when your agent finally hands over the keys and you get the opportunity to make the space your own, to create something inside that reflects your personality. When you work with Listing Loop, we give you tips on how to find your dream home, connect you with the right people, provide you with access to new properties before they hit the market through our exciting portfolio of off-market listings and we'll even give you financial advice and design tips if that's what you need. FOR YOUR FREE ACCESS to our services as well as our latest updates, sign up to our website and download our app.