If you’re looking for something big, bold, and dramatic in terms of color, pattern, and texture, a maximalist design may be exactly what you want for your home. Of course, anything big, bold, and dramatic can wreak havoc visually. So how do you achieve a layered, playful look without giving off a dazzling vibe? Local interior designer Shelly Lloyd knows how to incorporate maximalist design to maximum effect. asked.
Originally from Dallas, Lloyd studied fashion design at Parsons in New York City and later developed a passion for color, textiles and antiques while traveling the world as a designer for Ralph Lauren. These days, she works with clients across the country to create spaces that are artfully mixed with authentic spaces.
“It’s fun to see maximalism come back,” says Lloyd. “It’s really the aesthetics of abundance.” But what matters is how you manage that abundance.
“People think of maximalism as ‘more is more,’ but it doesn’t necessarily mean more stuff. It means more texture, more color, layering things.” I do,” she says.
Here are some other tips to consider when incorporating this look into your home.
Use a color palette that makes you happy.
At first glance, it may seem like color is what a maximalist space needs most. Big, bold colors. jewel tone. Polished or lacquered furniture. colorful wallpaper. However, this is not always the case. “Color doesn’t drive maximalist design,” says Lloyd. “It’s more about texture, creating intentional art arrangements, and thoughtful use of different spaces in your home.”
When working with clients, Lloyd starts with a simple approach to find out which colors make them happy. “Then put together that color vignette based on what brings them joy,” she says, noting that color palettes should be defined, not random.
Be careful when using patterns.
Mixing patterns to create a layered, textured look can be difficult. “You don’t want it to look like a mess. Mixing a lot of different patterns together that don’t really work can create a mess. This kind of design is actually the most difficult because it… You have to have a very well-honed sense of color, pattern, and texture to pull it all off and still incorporate it all in a way that feels fun and enjoyable.”
This means getting the right balance of scale, color, and pattern type.
“You don’t want to pile flowers on top of flowers,” she advises. “You want a good mix of florals, stripes, and geometric patterns. It needs to be really balanced, and the types and sizes of patterns need to complement each other.”
Choose a few (and only a few) statement pieces for each room.
There’s no shortage of options when it comes to adding an element of wow to your maximalist space. You may want to look for eye-catching furniture, accessories, curtains, flooring, and more. However, don’t overdo it when it comes to your most daring pieces.
Lloyd recommends no more than two or three speakers in a room. Otherwise, there will be too much and your eyes will have no place to focus. And maximalism doesn’t mean a room full of unedited clutter.
“If you have a great piece of art, a beautiful chandelier or some kind of lighting element, or a great piece of art and a cool sculptural piece, and everything else is purposefully chosen, that’s the perfect, ideal maximalist room.” she explains. Other beautiful furniture, prints, and patterns all complement your standout pieces.
Focus on what you like.
Create a unique space in any style of room. Lloyd always advises her clients to surround themselves with things that bring them joy, boost their creativity, and boost their mental health.
“Choose what you like and find a place to use it in your home,” she says. “I always start there. If my clients have something they like to collect, something they’ve inherited, or something they’re excited about when they’re out shopping, I’ll focus on that. Create a story in your room.”
