Maximalism vs Minimalism: How To Choose The Best Interior Design Trend For You

Hero via IG @mindtgap (MINDTHEGAP International)

If you have spent any time at all pondering the ins and outs of interior design, then you’re probably at least passingly familiar with the terms ‘maximalism’ and ‘minimalism’ – both of which are very much in vogue these days.

But where do you stand on these two popular design trends? Which one speaks to you the most, and which trend might you choose to follow when you next decorate your home?

To plumb the depths of your true interior design leanings, here is a helpful guide that should allow you to work out whether maximalism or minimalism will work best for you and your lifestyle.

That way, you’ll know exactly what route to follow with your decorating decisions!

Bring Your Own Personality Into The Mix

Perhaps the simplest way to work out which aesthetic trend will be the right fit for you is to first consider your own personality and preferences. For example, if you’re a keen advocate of mindfulness and tranquillity, of clean open spaces and quiet, considered living, then it’s highly likely that modern minimalism will dovetail nicely with your lifestyle.

If, on the other hand, you have a more riotous and colourful personality that thrives on bright bold colours and having plenty of stimulation for the senses, then maximalism is likely to be the perfect fit.

Minimalist lounge via IG @simonepolk

Maximalist sitting area via IG @theoddchairco, @temperleylondon, @romo_fabrics

Of course, there are a couple of common misconceptions surrounding both of these design trends; for instance, that minimalism means depriving yourself of luxury or comfort or that maximalism means mess and chaos. Neither of these needs to be true; it’s all about finding the right balance and the right elements that work for you.

Think About The Lifestyle You Would Like

If you are leaning toward minimalism, but you also have a young family, and you’re worried that it won’t be suitable, the good news is that you can adapt your brand of minimalism to suit your family life.

After all, cutting down your home’s décor to become more minimalist doesn’t mean having to make do with much less stuff or depriving your children of toys and accessories. You just need to think about what possessions you need now and what can be safely stowed away for later.

Maximalist home office nook found by IG @upbeatabode

Bold and maximalist lounge in the grand-millenial aesthetic via IG @maisonsplendid

Not sure what to do with all of the things you don’t currently need? A convenient and low-cost way to create a minimalist family home is to send some of your unnecessary belongings to a secure self-storage unit, such as those provided by Safestore. It’s the ideal solution, as your home will be stylishly clutter-free, but you will still be able to access your possessions whenever you need them.

Minimalist bedroom corner by IG @thelopezhome

Minimalist interior by New York and London based interior designer @ferrer.co. Photo: @william.jess.laird. Artworks by @antoniaferrerstudio, Alquimia 2021, oil on printed canvas. Photo: @eltonrocha.

That being said, personal storage solutions can also work for fans of maximalism who like to keep experimenting with different furnishings or accessories. If you have a mood for a particular look, simply store away your old items of décor until you feel a desire to see them again. Being able to switch out different fabrics, fixtures, and fittings whenever you have the urge can make your unique maximalism even more fun, playful, and convenient.

The Best Of Both Worlds

At the end of the day, the great thing about decorating your own home is that you don’t have to just pick a trend and stick with it. Instead, you can opt to mix and match maximalism and minimalism to suit your mood or to suit a particular space.

For example, you may find that a minimalist bedroom helps you to get a better night’s sleep, as it creates a soothing atmosphere free from too much stimulation.

Minimalist bedroom via IG @homesbymonique

On the other hand, your lounge may be the perfect place to throw caution to the winds and embrace a bit of maximalism.

Essentially minimalist lounge with a good amount of patterns by IG @ancorastone

There is nothing wrong with going for a minimalist base and adding just a few maximalist visual elements here and there.

Minimalist lounge with just a few bold elements via IG @yainteriors

While it may take some time to settle on a particular decorating style for every room in your home, being able to experiment with these popular and very different trends is bound to be a fun experience. Best of all, when you’re finally finished, you’ll have created a unique sanctuary that perfectly suits you and your family.