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If you’re like me, you might find joy in the beautiful dance between styles that adorn our living spaces. Lately, two design philosophies have been captivating the hearts of homeowners everywhere – maximalist design and eclectic design. It is easy to get the two confused so today I’m sharing the nuances of “maximalist design vs. eclectic design.”
When I went back to school to study interior design, I vividly remember the two courses that had the biggest impact on me. The first was lighting (more on that another day.) The second was on the study of interior design throughout history. Before taking that course, I didn’t know a ton about history. What fascinated me the most was how design and architecture mirrored and evolved with the things that were happening in the world at the time. Once you’re turned onto how this happens, you never look at design quite the same way ever again. The last few years have been hard for so many people around the world. We are also used to seeing the white neutral interiors on every corner of instagram. So it is no surprise to me that we are starting to see trends shift to more color, and brighter, more evocative interiors. I believe this is only the start of this, and I look forward to seeing how these newer trends take shape.
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In the ever-evolving landscape of interior design, these two styles have emerged as powerhouses, each with its own distinct personality. On one hand, a canvas where vivid colors, patterns, and textures play together like old friends. That’s the essence of maximalist design – a celebration of abundance, where more is indeed more.
On the other hand, we have eclectic design, a style that gracefully embraces the beauty of the mix-and-match game. Eclectic design is about telling your story through a curated collection of diverse elements, weaving a narrative that is uniquely yours. Now, let’s dive into the heart of these design philosophies, exploring their key elements.
The Best Resource for Maximalism: Jungalow
Maximalist Design
In the realm of maximalist design, excess is not a flaw but a virtue. Think bold colors, luxurious textures, and an amalgamation of patterns that work together in a harmonious rhythm. One might say maximalism is the rebellious sibling of minimalism, throwing caution to the wind and embracing an unabashed love for the extravagant.
Picture a living room adorned with vibrant hues – a deep emerald green sofa complemented by jewel-toned throw pillows. Gold accents shimmer against a backdrop of rich, patterned wallpaper, creating a luxurious experience that exudes opulence. Maximalist design is not for the faint of heart; it’s a celebration of individuality and a testament to the belief that your home should be a reflection of your unique personality.
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Eclectic Design
Enter eclectic design, a style that revels in the beauty of the unexpected. If maximalism is a grand opera, eclectic design is a collection of short stories, each piece contributing to a captivating narrative. In the world of eclecticism, rules are mere suggestions, and the beauty lies in the juxtaposition of seemingly disparate elements.
Picture a cozy corner where a vintage leather chair cozies up next to a sleek, modern side table. A Moroccan rug grounds the space, while an assortment of art pieces adorns the walls, telling tales of travels and personal connections. Eclectic design is about embracing the charm of imperfection, finding beauty in the unconventional, and creating a space that feels like a curated gallery of your life experiences.
Now, you might be wondering – why has eclectic design found its way into the hearts of so many homeowners? The answer lies in the desire for authenticity and a sense of nostalgia. In a world filled with mass-produced goods, eclectic design offers a refreshing departure, allowing homeowners to surround themselves with pieces that hold personal significance.
My Favorite Store for Eclectic Style Rooms: 1st Dibs
Maximalist Design vs. Eclectic Design: Finding Your Style
I sometimes find myself in conversations with homeowners who are on a quest to discover their design identity. The choice between maximalist design and eclectic design often becomes a delightful exploration of personal preferences.
Maximalist design, with its bold and unapologetic approach, resonates with those who crave a sense of drama and opulence in their daily lives. It’s for the individuals who find joy in vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and a sensory feast that welcomes them home after a long day.
On the flip side, eclectic design attracts those with a penchant for the unique and a love for the art of storytelling. If you’re someone who relishes the idea of a home filled with a curated collection of memories and diverse influences, eclectic design might be your calling.
If I had to choose a single word for each design style, for maximal design it would be layers. Every design choice, every finish, material, color has to be considered in layers. For eclectic design, it would be balance. I have such an admiration for this style. To really pull it off, to create an eclectic space worthy of admiration, it takes an enormous amount of skill. You need to be able to know when something is either too much, or not enough and have both constraint and the confidence to create a truly eclectic space. To me, maximalist spaces are about celebration and eclectic spaces are about personalisation.
The choice between maximalist design and eclectic design is not a rigid one. It’s an invitation to explore the depths of your design preferences, to create a space that is unequivocally you. Whether you find solace in the opulence of maximalism or joy in the eclectic, remember that your home is your space to create what you love.
Which design style would you like us to cover next? Let us know in the comments below.
