The MAX guide to maximalism

What is maximalism?

Maximalism is decorating with more: more color, more pattern, more of the things you love. It is the opposite of the beige, everything-hidden look. A maximalist room tells you who lives in it the moment you walk in.

But more is not the same as messy. The best maximalist rooms have a point of view. There is a palette holding the chaos together, a reason every piece is there, and a feeling the whole room is built around. That feeling is why every room on MAX by Design is a character with its own personality and opinions.

The five rules of more

1. 1Color with conviction

   Pick colors you love and commit. A maximalist room is never afraid of a wall that has an opinion.

2. 2Pattern on pattern

   Florals with stripes, toile with check. Repeat a color across patterns and they start talking to each other.

3. 3Things with a story

   Collections, heirlooms, thrift finds and art you actually love. A maximalist room is built over time, not bought in a day.

4. 4Layers everywhere

   Rugs on rugs, art up to the ceiling, books stacked sideways. Layers make a room feel lived in and warm.

5. 5Edited, not empty

   Maximalism is not clutter. Every piece earns its place, and there is still a path to the sofa.