As the world of interior design evolves, a bold and vibrant trend is taking the spotlight: maximalism. Vinette Diab Nicholls, owner and principal designer of DIYgirls INTERIOR, is leading the charge in South Africa, advocating for the joy and personality that maximalism brings to homes.

"Minimalism has had its moment, but for many, it feels a bit too sparse," says Nicholls. "Maximalism, on the other hand, celebrates abundance and individuality. It allows you to create spaces that are not only beautiful but also deeply personal and full of character."

Nicholls explains that maximalism is all about embracing bold colors, rich textures, and eclectic collections. "It's about curating a space that tells your story," she adds. "From heirloom pieces to unique travel souvenirs, maximalism is the perfect way to infuse your home with warmth and personality."

Why Maximalism?

In today's era of personal branding and self-expression, maximalism offers a unique way to reflect one's personality, travels, and passions in home decor. This trend has garnered attention from celebrities such as Katy Perry, Miley Cyrus, Lenny Kravitz, Gwen Stefani, Jessica Alba, Elton John, and Mick Jagger, who have all embraced bold, colorful, and whimsical home designs.

Mastering the Maximalist Look: Do's and Don'ts

DIYgirls INTERIOR provides key tips for those looking to adopt this vibrant trend:

Do’s:

1. Embrace Bold Colors and Patterns: Mix and match hues, patterns, and textures with confidence. Create a cohesive flow with a unifying element like a dominant shade or metallic accent.
2. Showcase Eclectic Treasures: Display personal treasures and eclectic artwork to reflect your personality. Curate objects that tell your story, such as heirlooms and vintage finds.
3. Use Statement Furniture: Incorporate bold statement furniture pieces. DIYgirls' handcrafted couches, upholstered in luxurious velvet or embellished with intricate embroidery, are perfect for making a maximalist statement.
4. Bring in Greenery: Add vibrancy with indoor plants, terrariums, and floral arrangements to create a sense of harmony.

Don’ts:

1. Neglect the Lighting: Use a variety of lighting sources to create a warm and inviting ambiance. Avoid dark, poorly lit spaces.
2. Clutter Your Space: While maximalism celebrates abundance, there’s a fine line between curated and cluttered. Ensure every piece serves a purpose or sparks joy.
3. Ignore Balance and Scale: Pay attention to the scale of your furniture and decor to maintain balance. Mix large pieces with smaller accents for a dynamic space.
4. Go Pattern Crazy: Create a cohesive color scheme or theme to tie your patterns together. Balance large prints with smaller motifs.
5. Sacrifice Functionality for Flair: Ensure your space remains practical and liveable. Furniture placement should allow for easy movement.
6. Use Poor Quality Items: Invest in quality pieces that stand the test of time and keep your home looking stylish.

Bottom Line:

Nicholls believes that maximalism is about creating vibrant, cohesive spaces that reflect unique personalities. "By embracing these do's and don'ts, you can create a maximalist home that's a vibrant expression of color, texture, and personality," she says. "So, go ahead, make a statement with maximalism – more is definitely more."