Minimalism has been a hot trend for many years, with Scandi and Japanese aesthetics stapling many homes. But that doesn't mean that maximalism has disappeared! There's a place for both trends and if you're a fan of bold colours and the philosophy that 'more is more', this is a must-have theme for your bedroom!
A classic style that has come back repeatedly throughout the decades, maximalism celebrates all things big, bold and complicated. Whereas minimalism celebrates slimmed-down furniture, neutral colours, and natural aesthetics, maximalism is all about bright colours, vibrant patterns, big items, and multiple layers.
It's perfect for those wanting to embrace a fun and playful bedroom and offers plenty of room to incorporate your personality. If anything, your personality is encouraged with a maximalist bedroom – make your bedroom scream who you are loud and proud! Trying to decide between blue and yellow décor? Why not both?
Does maximalism mean a cluttered bedroom?
No! Maximalism is about going big and colourful but should never feel cluttered or dirty. Decorating your bedroom in this unique style should be carefully thought out, not just thrown together. Over-decorating can make your bedroom look incredibly busy, disorienting, claustrophobic, or cluttered, making it look messy.
Of course, this is also down to personal taste - what feels cluttered to one person could be cosy to another! If this trend sounds appealing, we've created fantastic hacks to embrace it.
5 ways to create your maximalist bedroom
1. Go big with your bed
Since maximalism is about going big, your bed should be the first place to start! The size itself could be something to consider - if your bedroom can accommodate a super king-size bed, it could be a must-have for your new aesthetic!
Alternatively, opt for a bed with a tall headboard or an elegant sleigh bed, which features a tall headboard and footboard in a curved design. A hotel-style bed is a particularly great choice for a maximalist bedroom, as these often have beautiful headboards that are taller and wider than normal! To avoid that cluttered feeling, why not consider a storage bed or a TV bed? This gives you space to store items away to prevent over-decorating!
2. Embrace bright colours
Bright, vibrant, vivid…these should all be the types of colours that you go for when decorating a maximalist bedroom. From your wallpaper to your bedding, rugs to curtains and more, there are endless opportunities for making your bedroom pop with colour. Even better, you can use your bed to your advantage by opting for coloured upholstery, such as blue beds or painting your bed frame to match your new style.
If you've chosen a neutral option, such as a white or black bed, use colour efficiently throughout your bedroom. A gallery wall can display fun artwork to attract the eye, or you could add nature with some bedroom plants. The options are endless when decorating your maximalism bedroom, but colour should always be at the forefront of your choices!
3. Adopt mixed patterns
A core component of maximalism is being brave enough to combine colours and patterns! Add vibrant and eye-catching wallpaper to your bedroom with vivid prints such as flowers, plants or repeating designs. Your wallpaper is often one of the first things people notice in a bedroom, so patterned wallpaper will stand out and can be used to establish your colour palette for the rest of the bedroom.
If you're unwilling to make such a big change or are renting so you can't redo the walls, your bedding is a great way to embrace the maximalist feel. If possible, you could also reupholster your headboard with funky patterned fabric to match your new vibe. Don't mix too many patterns, though, as this could disorient your bedroom.
4. Layer your fabrics
Layering your bedding is a must when creating a maximalist bedroom. Combining various colours, patterns, and textiles adds a new dimension to your aesthetic and can be changed regularly. You could opt for a cotton bed cover with a teddy bear fabric throw, chenille and velvet pillows, and more.
Don't forget about other items in your bedroom, such as lampshades or curtains!
5. Add some statement pieces
Your bed is the main piece of furniture in your bedroom, but you shouldn't stop there. Make your other bedroom furniture pieces stand out by adding vintage pieces with character or upcycling your current furniture. If you've decided to add a gallery wall to your bedroom, then vary the sizes and types of frames to give it an eye-catching look.
Smaller decoration pieces can work just as well with this, such as accent chairs, funky lamps, quirky figures, and more that can add a cosy feel. This also ensures your personality is clearly shown in your bedroom!
