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Textures, patterns and colours are important ingredients for creating the daring and eclectic look known as maximalism. It’s perfect for those who love to experiment with different styles, and who are not afraid to make a strong statement in their home.
Interior stylist Evie Kemp (eviekemp.com) says a maximalist interior should look like it has evolved over time. “Think of the first ‘layer’ as being the walls and how they’re decorated,” she explains. “Next, art, rugs, furniture and then cushions, lighting and curtains. Lastly, objects, books, glass and ceramics. Don’t get too hung up on matching – try and just go for what you love and let it come together organically.”
Don’t be afraid to combine multiple patterns, says stylist Sam van Kan. “Mix checks, florals, stripes, even animal prints in the same room, but balance them with a consistent colour palette.”
Wallpaper can be a powerful tool. “Botanical designs add character and bring the outside in, geometrics introduce calmness with their structured order [see above], while patterned wallpaper creates a stylish focal point,” explains Paula Taylor, Superfresco Easy trend and design expert.
Mixing textures – such as velvety soft furnishings with chunky knit throws and woven rugs – can help add depth and interest. Curating modern, antique and retro elements evokes authenticity. “Lamps are key and make the most of a fabulous backdrop or wall colour,” adds Evie.
Unsure of where to start? Begin with a statement piece. “This might be an artwork, a piece of furniture or a rug – something substantial that can be a starting point for the rest of the room. Think about colours or styles that go with that piece, and then let those additions inform the next,” suggests Evie.
Paint is a fast and affordable option for creating cohesiveness. “Look for a shade that works with all the disparate elements you’ve gathered,” says Evie.
We’re sharing advice on how to make two D.I.Y. statement pieces.
Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.
Here’s how to make a heavenly statement piece from humble building materials.
Take a plain round mirror (ours is 80cm), place it on stiff cardboard and trace the outline with a felt-tip pen. Cut this out using scissors. Draw a 10cm border within this circle and cut it out to form a ring-shaped frame.
Tip: Don’t bother cutting too neatly as the cardboard will be covered.
In a well-ventilated area, cover a flat work surface with a plastic drop sheet, place the frame on top and put on your safety equipment. Using the applicator provided, apply expanding foam to the frame, building layers and smoothing with gloved hands. Allow to dry.
Using gloved hands, apply at least two layers of plaster joint compound, allowing them to dry after each coat. Sand with 120-grit abrasive paper to shape, apply white water-based paint and allow to dry. Attach the finished cloud frame to the mirror using contact adhesive, then secure in position with the provided brackets and fixings suitable for your wall type.
Personalise an old mat to create a warm welcome at your feet.
To achieve our checkerboard pattern, apply 24mm painter’s tape to a plain doormat in a grid. (Ours is 60cm x 40cm.) Form square gaps the same width as the tape.
Working in a well-ventilated area and wearing safety equipment, apply white spray primer to the taped mat. Allow it to dry, then apply two coats of your chosen spray paint colour (we used Dulux ‘Pompeian Pink’). Allow it to dry after each coat.
Tip: Use spray primer and paint formulated for outdoor use.
Remove the tape to reveal spaced coloured squares. Apply fresh tape, again in a grid, but this time laying the tape over the coloured squares. Repeat Step #2.
Remove the tape to reveal a checkerboard pattern. Allow the doormat to dry thoroughly before placing it into position.
Check out our guide on how to make a D.I.Y. wavy headboard.
Photo Credit: Brigid Arnott
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
