Maximalist Decor: A New Wave for Wallpaper

Source: Décor Imprimé: Marguerite wallpaper by Hilary Jane

Maximalism: Beyond the Limits of Minimalism

For many years, minimalism dominated the world of interior design. Open spaces, clean lines, and a neutral color palette were considered the height of elegance and good taste. Maximalism, however, came along to shake up these established rules, favoring a bolder, more expressive approach.

The key to maximalism lies in abundance. Spaces are filled with decorative objects, extravagant furniture, and richly patterned textiles and finishes. Bright colors, bold prints, and lush textures take center stage. This exuberant aesthetic creates a dynamic, lively atmosphere, where every square inch is used to express the personality and tastes of the people who live there.

blog: The Very Mom	blog: Ames Interior	Instagram @alexisandraaustin

blog: Dani Nagel	Instagram @maryrosevintage	Instagram @colorful_kimmes

Bold Colors and Patterns

In maximalism, color reigns supreme. Walls can be painted in vibrant shades like cobalt blue, mustard yellow, or flaming pink. Geometric, floral, or animal prints are widely used, whether on upholstery fabrics, wallpaper , or rugs. The idea is to create a visual kaleidoscope that captures attention and sparks wonder. Every room becomes a work of art in its own right, where colors, patterns, and textures combine in unexpected ways to create a unique, stimulating atmosphere.

Take Marianne Plaisance, Queen of Color and self-described "professional handywoman"! This Quebec content creator, who has amassed more than 245,000 followers on YouTube and nearly as many on Instagram, has become something of a local reference point for the maximalist movement. Known for completely transforming her loft as well as several rooms for well-known personalities, her talent is undeniable: she knows exactly how to combine vibrant colors and bold patterns to create a dynamic, eclectic, and fun space!

Instagram @marianne.plaisance

When asked what she loves most about this trend, she tells us without hesitation that maximalism lets her express her creativity 100%. "I like not being restricted to one period in time, I like mixing tons of elements, not limiting myself to a single color. It's a style that gives me total freedom of expression, since there are no restrictions, no rules." To her, maximalism is timeless, because it adapts to each person.

"It's THE most timeless trend, in my opinion, because it blends every era and every trend at once. A maximalist decor is timeless because it's 100% a reflection of the personality of the person who created it. This trend has always existed, and it always will."

In other words, maximalism is more than a set of rules to follow, it's a whole approach to decorating. If you love your decor, no matter the colors, furniture, or patterns, it will be timeless, because it will always reflect your own personal taste.

In her most recent transformation at Lysandre Nadeau's place, Marianne created a truly unique space. On top of being an adult bedroom, it also had to make room for a newborn. She rose to the challenge beautifully, notably by incorporating playful cushions, more neutral furniture, and two wallpaper murals that add a lot of character to the room.

Instagram @marianne.plaisance

You'll find the Zola and Groovy murals, created by Marianne Plaisance, on our online shop of wallpaper murals.

Layering Textures and Materials

Maximalism is also characterized by layering textures and materials. Smooth surfaces sit alongside rough ones, luxurious velvets pair with hand-woven textiles, and shiny metals contrast with natural wood. This mix of textures creates a visual and tactile richness that adds depth and character to a space.

In a maximalist interior, every piece of furniture, every accessory is carefully chosen for its unique texture. Plush rugs, velvet cushions, silk curtains, and ceramic sculptures blend harmoniously to create a sensory symphony.

Hilary Jane Home

The Art of Mixing and Layering

Another key characteristic of maximalism is the art of mixing and layering. Decorative objects are proudly displayed, whether colorful vases, quirky trinkets, or eclectic artwork. Walls become personal art galleries, where travel souvenirs, original artwork, and family photographs sit side by side in harmony.

The use of wallpaper and wall coverings in maximalist style isn't limited to walls, either. They can also be used to cover furniture like cabinets, shelves, or console tables, creating visually stunning statement pieces.

That said, accumulation in maximalism isn't done haphazardly. Every object is chosen carefully and has its place within the overall composition of the space. The art of mixing is about finding the balance between different shapes, colors, and textures to create a visually appealing composition.

Hilary Jane wallpaper by Décor Imprimé curtains and cushions: Hilary Jane Home

Wallpaper: A Key Element of Maximalism

Maximalism is here to inspire you and remind you that interior design is, above all, a form of personal expression. By breaking free from the rules of minimalism, maximalism offers unlimited room to create unique, inspiring spaces.

Whether you're drawn to bright colors, bold patterns, or layered textures, maximalism lets you push the boundaries of conventional interior design. Adding wallpaper to a maximalist interior brings an extra layer of detail and personality to the space. These wall coverings create an artistic backdrop and invite the eye to explore every inch of the room. They're an integral part of creating an immersive, stimulating maximalist atmosphere.

Maximalist wallpaper and wall coverings are often characterized by rich, intricate patterns like lush florals, bold geometric shapes, exotic landscape scenes, or artistic illustrations. Here are a few examples we've pulled from our catalog of peel-and-stick wallpaper murals.