Less Is More Or Less Is Bore?

Be it the way of life, taste in fashion, personal philosophy, or home decor and interior design, the minimalist and maximalist are not on the same wavelength. Are you wondering which one you are and what suits your style more? 

Here are the differences between minimalism and maximalism design styles.

The Maximalist: More Is More

A maximalist style is not hard to miss! You will know one when you see one. Maximalism paved its way in the 1950s with bold patterns and quirky furniture. After the second world war, a long period of depression, people started dressing up and decorating their houses with bright, loud, and exaggerated pieces to make a statement. To put it simply, the maximalist style means more color, more texture, more art and accessories, and more personality. Maximalists often surround themselves with pieces that scream who they are, what they like, and what they do. The minimalist will call that clutter. But to the maximalist, they are tiny souvenirs of love and memories.

Plum, a maximalist interior style restaurant. Designed by Bent Chair.

Maximalist Interior Design Tips

• Color Palette: Brave, bold and bright colors.
• Art Style: Many styles - floral, geometric, natural, etc. in a cohesive manner to create a balanced, beautiful chaos.
• Material: Leather, metal walls, brass, and wood.
• Walls: Usually loud colors like green, red, or blue. They are the focal point in the room that creates drama.
• Lighting: Use big fixtures and chandeliers with warm lighting.

The Minimalist: Less Is More

Minimalistic style prioritizes functionality and intent. Surprisingly, aesthetics do not take the fall while creating a minimal space that is clean, spacious, and simple. The minimalist style falls on the opposite end of the spectrum with less furniture, less color, and less art.The early 1960s saw the rise of minimalism in New York, USA. Artists, painters, and sculptors started to focus more on the material of their art instead of overt symbolism and emotion. The minimalist will only use 20% of the space for furniture and decor for a free, spacious, and clean look. The few pieces stand alone and become the focal point of the room. Open floor plans and neutral walls make the space look bigger and brighter, which is key in minimalistic design style.

MisoSexy, a minimal interior style restaurant. Designed by Bent Chair.

Maximalist Interior Design Tips

• Less is more, but God is in the details.
• Color palette: Neutral or muted, soft pastels.
• Decor: Single pieces that stand out.
• Furniture: Well-defined. Clean lines are fundamental minimalistic elements.
• Texture: Wood and stone combinations.
• Walls: Usually white, pastels, or muted tones that let the furniture or decor pieces be the main character.
• Lighting: Small and dainty wall sconces or statement lighting. Embracing natural light is key.

Whether you find pleasure in the aesthetic of excess or the "less is more" art style, create a striking visual statement in your home with Bent Chair, a one stop shop for premium furniture in Delhi. Shop affordable premium furniture and home decor online or at our flagship store in Ambawatta One, Mehrauli.