Maximalism is emerging as one of the trendiest styles of 2025. But what exactly is maximalism, and why are people gravitating toward it?
Before we go on any further, one thing we want you to remember is that trendiness comes and goes but good design is good design, no matter the style. Instead of chasing what’s “in” or “out”, create spaces that work for you and reflect your personal style. With that said… let’s move on to discussing one of the trendiest styles of 2025!
What is Maximalism?
As you may have guessed, Maximalism is the exact opposite of minimalism. Maximalism embraces bold colors, daring patterns, and layered textures, creating spaces that feel vibrant and unique. Unlike the clean, clutter-free Scandi-inspired aesthetic that has been so popular in years past, maximalism is loud, busy, and eclectic.
Why are People Shifting Towards Maximalism?
Interior design trends tend to ebb and flow – what was once popular goes out of fashion, and its opposite emerges as the new and trendy style. For years, minimalism was “in”. Scandinavian-inspired interiors were super popular in the late 2000’s and 2010’s as they showcased a clean and neutral look. More recently, minimalism has more of a wabi-sabi influence and features the use of earthy colors like terracotta, browns, and beiges along with natural materials like linen and wood. These two styles we’re mentioning here may seem really different, but they use a lot of the same principles. Such as minimal clutter, a subdued color palette, and an emphasis of texture instead of pattern. Minimalism is in no way going out of style, maximalism is just reappearing as an alternative.
One of the critiques of minimalist interiors is that they lack personality. The shift to maximalism is a natural rebound that we see often when it comes to design trends. After years of neutral, clutter free spaces, people are wanting to embrace more color, texture, and personality in their homes. Another driving force behind maximalism’s rise is the growing appreciation for nostalgia and comfort. This somewhat aligns with Grandmillennial style, where people incorporate inherited furniture in more modern ways.
Modern Traditional
Maximalism isn’t always traditional, and Modern Traditional design isn’t always maximalist, but they often overlap. Modern Traditional interiors embrace the use of classic furniture, timeless patterns, and rich colors and bridges the gap between old and new. The use of “old and new” creates a more curated, eclectic feeling to space hence the connection to Maximalism.
One of the lead designers that leans into the traditional side of design is Corey Damen Jenkins, who is known for his bold us of color and layered accessories paired with beautiful traditional furniture and forms. His Trad Nouveau collection for Kravet and furniture collaborations with Maitland-Smith and Hancock & Moore highlight the blend of traditional and modern elements that exemplifies the Modern Traditional style.
The Rise and Fall of Trends
Like fashion, interior design is constantly evolving. What’s trendy today may fade tomorrow, only to be revived decades later. The clean, neutral interiors of the late 2000s and 2010s are now giving way to a “more is more” mentality. However, interior design trends don’t move as quickly as fashion. Furniture pieces are investments, meaning that we will see a more gradual transition into seeing more maximal interiors in everyday homes.
At the end of the day, trends should never dictate how you design your own home. Trends are there to inspire, not dictate. The most important thing is to create a home that reflects your style, comfort, and personality, not what others say is “popular.”
What do you think of Maximalism and Modern Traditional Design? 2025 is proving to be all about bold choices and personal expression. How will you showcase personality in your home?
Stay Inspired,
The Margery Wedderburn Interiors Team