Intentional Maximalism

It’s a week for going over the top as the Met Gala inspires us to be more adventurous with our home décor

Playing to the theme of fashion is art, Madonna arrived witch-like in a creation inspired by Leonora Carrington’s artwork, The Temptations of Saint Anthony Fragment II, topped off with nautical-themed vintage millinery by Ireland’s own Phillip Treacey, in a look best described as Miss Haversham-meets-Wicked Witch of the West, even bringing along a coven to carry her train.

An unrecognisable Heidi Klum opted for a statue-like look in collaboration with make-up artist Mike Marino who previously transformed her into a worm for the 2023 event.

Fashionably late Rhianna, whose Met Gala outfits are always hotly anticipated, shimmered in a draped swirling vortex ensemble, accompanied by A$AP Rocky in a long pink Chanel coat he’ll get plenty of wear out of later as a dressing gown.

While we’re mesmerised by all this fashion maximalism for as long as the news cycle runs, let’s see how it translates to our interiors.

Maximalism has always been the look of collectors and lovers of colour and pattern in a naturally evolving way, but now it’s trending as intentional with Pinterest Predicts Trend Report 2025 noting an increase of 215% in searches for “eclectic maximalism” and searches for “vintage maximalism” jumping by 260%.

For some of us, maximalism might simply mean holding onto things the decluttering gurus say ought to be despatched to the charity shop. For others it means being confident with some adventurously coloured emulsion over a weekend, although in general it’s about a more relaxed and lived in look.

Either way, there are key tips for introducing the trend although minimalists and serial declutterers might want to look away now.

Tip 1 - Colour Choices

Try to give your décor a degree of longevity and opt for a colour theme you have always loved rather than something in fashion you’ll tire of as the trend cycle rolls on. If you love jewel tones, or maybe soft pastels are your thing, stick with them as the basis of your style whether that’s shabby chic, traditional, Victoriana, or the trending cottagecore, all of which lend themselves to the maximalist look.

Don’t be afraid, though, to add a rogue shade - maximalism is after all about excess, so think about a pink leading edge on an emerald green curtain or pairing these colours in cushions. The same goes for lilac and navy combined, and pastel on pastel.

Get the look: The sunshine yellow Anderson fabric three-seater sofa (€999) is one to build your maximalist colour scheme around, or the matching chair (€749). The Scott navy or azure sofas (from €999) can go max adding in the vivid pink Bug knitted pouffe (€39).

Anderson Yellow Fabric 3 Seater Sofa

Tip 2 - Renter-friendly

Just because you rent doesn’t mean you can’t indulge in self-expression. Painting walls might not be an option, so get layering colour with textiles - cushions, throws and rugs. Homewares like candlesticks and vases can elevate a room painted white or the landlord special, magnolia. Investing in accessories you love colour- and pattern-wise gives them longevity so when you take them to your next place they’ll instantly help you feel at home.

Get the look: The Fraser black and white striped lamp (€79), and the statuesque Magnus floor lamp finished in matt gold (€179) both make a statement, as does mixing materials. The Mac bronze side table (€79) and Dover pink marble accent table (€149) are striking pieces and easy to transport.

Ariana Manhattan Pine 2 Seater Power Recliner Sofa

Tip 3 - Pattern Picks

While colour is key to maximalism, on its own it can seem flat. Pattern in textiles is your friend, and if you own your home consider wallpapering to give your décor tempo.

Get the look: A plain sofa or chair can be maxed-up with the Klein blue and white check (€29), the Soho multi-colour (€29), or Ochre stripe (€29). Add the Ida black and white zebra print rug (from €100).

Hygge Cream Fabric 4 Piece Modular Corner Group

Tip 4 - Curating Collections

Maximalists tend to be collectors and as books feature in most homes, having them arranged according to spine colours is one for the maximalists as the blocks of colour you’ll create add a new aesthetic to your bookcase.

Think, too, about letting vintage plates tucked away in a cupboard see the light of day and hang them on the wall for a winning maximalist combination of colour and pattern.

It might sound contradictory to deliberately create space in a maximalist styled room when the theme is all about excess, but leaving gaps between individual objects or groupings allows them to “breathe”. Take the same approach with prized pieces, maybe a treasured bowl brought back from holiday will get attention set apart from everything else.

Get the look: Style your most eclectic objects on the Osaka acacia wood round display unit (€549).