More IS More!
In the mood for a home refresh? Get ready for a masterclass in Maximalism!
Who doesn’t love the Spring, with all its cheery promise, along with the permission it gives us to go out with the old and welcome in the new? It’s the age-old mantra that’s particularly prevalent when it comes to our homes, whether its a simple spring clean, or a full interiors revamp.
So, since we reckon one or two of you might soon be turning your attention to that unloved space indoors, we thought we’d take a deep dive into the world of interior design. In particular, we wanted to explore a trend that we’ve long been inspired by, but felt a little nervous about pulling off.
We’re talking Maximalism…
…and, here to tell us all we need to know is the rather brilliant Abbie Downey, of Devon-based interior design company Feather & Fossil. Frankly, with a glam and gorgeous portfolio like Abbie’s, we wouldn’t look anywhere else!
So, pen and paper at the ready, prepare to take note: you’ll be a Maximalist before you know it!
First things first: what exactly is Maximalist interior design?
Maximalism in interior design can be summed up in one phrase: More is More! It’s all about bold choices, layering colours, patterns, and textures, and creating a space that is as unique as you are.
First gaining popularity in the 1980s, an era of economic growth and excess [and enormous mobile phones], maximalism has since become a mainstay in the design world, with a strong resurgence in recent years. Unlike minimalism, which focuses on simplicity and restraint, maximalism is about storytelling, personal expression, and embracing an eclectic mix of elements that work together harmoniously.
A well-executed maximalist space is curated rather than chaotic, filled with meaningful pieces that celebrate culture, history, and personality. Whether through carefully selected antiques, unique artwork, or layered textiles, maximalism transforms a house into a home that sparks conversation and invites admiration.
How I approach Maximalism…
For me, maximalism is the perfect balance of old and new, guided by colour theory and underpinned by art and design principles. I have a passion for creating spaces that truly reflect the client, no two designs will ever be the same in my studio. My goal is to transform a house into a home, rich with stories, memories, and personality.
That said, a home must also be functional and practical for modern living. I carefully blend antique or reclaimed pieces with modern elements, layering colours, patterns, and strategically placed lighting to bring the vision to life. It’s not just about throwing lots of things together, it’s a thoughtful process, like solving a giant, vibrant, eclectic puzzle. This creative challenge is what I love most about my job!
How to get started…
If you’re new to maximalism, embracing bold colours, patterns, and textures can feel daunting. Here are my top tips for introducing maximalism into your home in a way that feels authentic and exciting:
1/ Look at your wardrobe
Your wardrobe can offer valuable insight into your design preferences. If you gravitate towards patterned dresses, you might be a secret wallpaper or mural lover. If you love layering outfits, you’ll likely enjoy layering textures and fabrics in your home, think sofas filled with squishy cushions and tactical throws. Dark, textured clothing might indicate a preference for moody interiors with rich tones and plush textiles.
2/ Take the leap with colour
Many people choose a bold wallpaper but then pair it with white walls, making the wallpaper feel isolated and excessively ‘bold’. Instead, opt for a complementary paint colour or one found in the wallpaper itself. This creates a more cohesive and harmonious space where the wallpaper integrates seamlessly with the room.
3/ Start with accessories
If committing to maximalist furniture, wallpaper, or paint feels overwhelming, start with accessories. Artwork in particular is a fantastic way to inject personality into your home. A gallery wall is a signature maximalist feature, allowing you to curate a collection that reflects your style.
4/ Follow inspiring accounts on social media
Instagram and Pinterest are treasure troves of interior inspiration. Save images that resonate with you and review them after a few months, you’ll likely notice recurring themes that point to your personal style. This will help you make confident design choices.
And if you fancy going shopping?
It’s a case of knowing where to look. Here are some of my favourite places to find unique pieces for a maximalist home:
● Mindthegap - Maximalist wallpapers, fabrics, and soft furnishings to tick all your maximalist boxes.
● Benjamin Moore – Over 2,500 paint colours to choose from.
● Vinterior – A must for vintage and antique furniture.
● Pooky – Beautiful, decorative lighting for every part of your home.
● Maison Flaneur – A treasure trove of unique objects and homeware sourced from around the world.
● Glassette – Discover beautifully curated objects for your home.
● Aarven – Ethical, beautiful homeware accessories to add personality to your space.
Inspired?
We thought you might be! And now, naturally, you’re wondering if Abbie can help you navigate your own maximalist ideas? Absolutely! If you’ve got a project in mind, you can start the conversation by hopping over to her website - just hit the button below.
You can also check out Abbie’s Instagram account for another dose of moreish Maximalism: @featherandfossil_interiors
Here’s to more of it all in 2025!
