On one side of the interior design spectrum, there’s a movement that champions minimalism. It’s clean, clutter-free, and serenely simplistic. On the other side, there’s maximalism — one that favors something more vibrant. In other words, more is more.  

 

Bold, loud and eclectic

You can consider the maximalist principle as an interior design rule-breaker. And while this approach doesn’t have set rules, it can be defined by certain features or elements. 

For instance, a maximalist interior design philosophy typically boasts bold colors — a stark contrast to minimalism’s neutral palette. Emerald, fuchsia, violet, earthy green, and mustard yellow are all popular choices. 

Another standout feature is loud, repetitive patterns or bold prints, which you may see on wallpaper, upholstery, or a statement piece. If anything, this choice denotes courage in embracing eclecticism. This is why you’ll often see maximalist spaces unafraid of mixing styles and motifs. For instance, a living room might pair an ethnic-inspired wallpaper with a collection of vintage posters and an array of hanging plants. 

 

Maximalism in Bahrain

Bahrain, a country where tradition meets modernity, is an important hub for various design trends — including maximalism.

On Reef Island, the five-star Reef Boutique Hotel exemplifies maximalist interior design through its bold use of colors, patterns, and textures. For instance, its rooms feature a lively mix of intense colors, such as purple, pink, and green. The use of various textures in rugs, drapes, linen, and wooden panels further adds a lively touch. The incorporation of plush décor, vintage designs, and ethnic artifacts evokes the maximalist mantra that more is an art form.

In the same manner, Clay Restaurant in the bohemian neighborhood of Adilya in Manama takes on a playful approach to designing its interior space. 

Here, maximalism is embodied in its amalgamation of cultural influences. It extensively uses various materials, such as wood, marble, and lush greenery. The overall space dominantly features a rich palette comprising greens, blues, and natural earth tones. Moreover, the diverse collection of plates on one wall, a mural with traditional Japanese art, and ceiling art with hanging clay balls — combined with the strategic placement of modern lighting fixtures and tinted glass — showcase how visual complexity actually works. 

Meanwhile, Mulk International Bahrain — a pioneer in bespoke interior solutions — showcases maximalism in its customized, hand-crafted offerings. Take, for instance, their Stellar rug series. With a vibrant composition of bright, colorful tones and bold geometric patterns, adding this piece to a space can imbue it with a sense of maximalism. 

 

An ode to individutality

Maximalism has long existed, tracing its roots to the lavish 17- and 18th-century decorative styles that high-class Europeans patronised. In the modern era, this interior design approach has been the choice of anyone who wants to celebrate authenticity in an unapologetically striking manner. 

Renowned maximalist designer Danielle McKim once said that maximalism is about creating a space for any and all items that bring you joy. For McKim, maximalism is about personal aesthetics and vibes. 

Meanwhile, Solange Azagury-Partridge, who was featured in the book “Living to the Max,” said in a media interview, “Minimalism requires one to adhere to a strict way of seeing and living. It’s a strong and brave point of view, but (one that) allows for no chaos or deviation. Isn’t your home the place to feel the freest to express yourself? That’s why maximalism works so well and will always be relevant.”

For anyone living in Bahrain and beyond, this design ethos is an opportunity to weave in their personality or brand. It transforms an interior space into an empty canvas where boldness is in the spotlight and abundance is celebrated.