Allie LeFevere describes her vibrant Chicago home as colorful and eclectically decorated. When she and her husband first moved in four years ago, they did not have a specific design plan in mind.
“I just wanted the house to feel vibrant,” says LeFevere, who is the founder of the branding agency Obedient. She wanted their home to reflect their lives, the places they’ve visited, and the memories they’ve created.
The concept behind maximalist decor is “more is more,” according to Jean Whitehead, a senior lecturer in interior design at Falmouth University in England. Bold colors, textures, and unique pieces characterize this style, which Vogue magazine predicts will be a popular design trend in 2024.
Adopting a maximalist style in your own home may seem intimidating and costly, but proponents of this bold aesthetic say that it can be done on a budget. Here are some tips for achieving a maximalist look affordably.
Shop at thrift and vintage stores to explore maximalism in an economical way, recommends Daniel Mathis, the creator of the Instagram account Not A Minimalist. Mathis’s own home in Oklahoma City showcases his maximalist style, with many second-hand pieces. To find good deals, Mathis suggests waiting until the last day of estate sales when prices are usually reduced.
Certified financial planner Alex Ammar suggests setting a budget and decorating in stages. Allocate different budgets for various aspects of interior decorating – consider shopping at second-hand and discount stores for decor and accent pieces, while splurging on key furniture pieces like a sofa.
Express your creativity by making things yourself to achieve a maximalist look. Utilize old furniture or items around your home by reinventing them. Mathis, for example, used fabric from a Southwest-style rug to upholster an armchair in his sitting room.
Incorporate meaningful pieces into your decor to create a unique space without breaking the bank. Look for items that catch your eye and be open to building a collection over time or making small alterations to pieces. Mathis, for instance, has been collecting rare Ozark Roadside Tourist pottery for years, and feels that his collection reflects his maximalist style in an intentional and curated way.
Discover your own style by staying open to designs that surprise you while knowing what you like. LeFevere and Mathis recommend using resources like Pinterest and decor magazines to inspire your style. By knowing your preferences, you can curate pieces that fill your space and reflect your personality and life experiences.
Maximalism is about creating a home that is a reflection of you and your life, rather than following a strict design blueprint. Fill your space with color and meaningful items to create a decor scheme that brings you joy every time you walk in.
Allie LeFevere’s vibrant Chicago home is a living representation of her and her husband’s colorful and eclectic journey. Instead of following a specific design, she aimed to create a space that reflects their experiences and memories. This unique approach to maximalism defies traditional norms and embraces the philosophy that “more is more,” as explained by Jean Whitehead, a senior lecturer at Falmouth University.
Exploring maximalism on a budget doesn’t have to be daunting, as demonstrated by Daniel Mathis, who advocates for thrifting and estate sales to find distinctive pieces without breaking the bank. This cost-effective approach allows for a curated maximalist look without overspending. Alex Ammar recommends setting a budget and decorating in stages, focusing on second-hand and discounted items for decor while splurging on key furniture pieces.
Maximalism isn’t just about bold colors and textures – it’s also an opportunity to unleash your creativity. Repurposing old furniture or creating DIY projects adds a personal touch to your space without draining your wallet. Embracing meaningful pieces, like Mathis’s collection of Ozark Roadside Tourist pottery, adds depth and character to your home while staying budget-friendly.
Find your own maximalist style by exploring different sources for inspiration, like LeFevere’s use of Pinterest or Mathis’s magazine clippings. Embrace the process of discovery and stay open to designs that surprise you, building a space that truly reflects your personality and preferences. Ultimately, maximalism is about creating a home that brings you joy and showcases your unique story, rather than adhering to conventional design standards.
Maximalism on a Budget: Affordable Options for Bold Home Decor
In the world of interior design, minimalism has long been a popular trend. However, for those who crave color, texture, and personality in their living spaces, maximalism offers a bold and vibrant alternative. Maximalism is all about embracing excess, mixing patterns, and combining eclectic elements to create a visually stimulating environment that reflects your unique style.
While maximalism can sometimes be associated with high-end luxury and extravagant spending, it is possible to achieve a maximalist aesthetic on a budget. In this article, we will explore affordable options for those who want to inject some drama and flair into their home decor without breaking the bank.
1. Embrace Color and Pattern
One of the hallmarks of maximalist design is the use of bold colors and eye-catching patterns. To incorporate this aesthetic into your home without spending a fortune, consider painting an accent wall in a vibrant hue or adding colorful throw pillows and blankets to your sofa. You can also mix and match different patterns and textures to create a dynamic and layered look. Thrift stores and discount retailers are great places to find inexpensive pieces that can add a pop of color and pattern to your space.
2. DIY Artwork and Décor
Another budget-friendly way to achieve a maximalist look is to create your own artwork and décor. Get creative with materials like paint, fabric, and paper to make one-of-a-kind pieces that showcase your personality. You can also upcycle old furniture and accessories with a fresh coat of paint or new upholstery to give them a new lease on life. DIY projects not only add a personal touch to your home but also save you money in the process.
3. Mix and Match Furniture
Maximalism is all about mixing styles, eras, and finishes to create a visually interesting space. Instead of buying a matching furniture set, consider mixing and matching different pieces to create a eclectic look. Look for secondhand furniture at thrift stores, flea markets, or online marketplaces to score unique finds at affordable prices. You can also experiment with layering rugs, throw pillows, and blankets to add depth and texture to your space.
4. Statement Lighting
Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood and ambiance of a room. To make a bold statement in your maximalist space, consider investing in unique and eye-catching light fixtures. Look for vintage chandeliers, colorful pendant lights, or oversized floor lamps to add drama and personality to your home. Statement lighting can be a focal point in a room and instantly elevate the overall aesthetic without breaking the bank.
5. Bold Accessories
Accessories are the finishing touches that can tie a room together and add personality to your space. When it comes to maximalist design, the key is to go big and bold with your accessories. Look for oversized mirrors, decorative wall art, statement vases, and quirky knick-knacks to create visual interest and spark conversation. Mixing different textures, colors, and shapes can create a visually dynamic and layered look that reflects your unique style.
In conclusion, maximalism doesn’t have to be synonymous with high costs and luxury items. With a little creativity, resourcefulness, and an eye for design, you can achieve a bold and vibrant maximalist aesthetic on a budget. By embracing color, pattern, DIY projects, mixing furniture styles, investing in statement lighting, and choosing bold accessories, you can transform your home into a visually stimulating and unique space that reflects your personality and style. So go ahead, unleash your inner maximalist and create a home that is truly one-of-a-kind.