Minimalism Is Officially Out—Why Designers Are Loving a New, Colorful Style This Fall

Here are all the reasons why designers say maximalism is taking over from minimalism’s long-running stint. These experts share why they’re turning to it instead.

Alvin Wayne Interiors

There’s a perpetual flip-flopping of trends when it comes to interior design, and there are two styles in particular that always seem to be playing a popularity tug of war: minimalism and maximalism.

You’ll know minimalism by its trademark pared-down aesthetic and calming front and maximalism by its vibrant and eclectic mix of colors, patterns, and shapes. And—as of right now—there’s a telling shift towards the bolder of the two.

We all know minimalism will never truly be “out” or disappear from the design world’s vocabulary, but right now maximalism is having its moment—and for very good reasons.

If the bright and playful characteristics of this style are calling your name, here’s why you should explore maximalism in your own living space, according to several designers.

Meet the Expert

Justina Blakeney is the designer and founder of Jungalow.
Grey Joyner is an interior designer and founder of Grey Joyner Interiors.
Sonya Winner is a color expert and creative director of Sonya Winner Rug Studio.

It Feels More Personal

Designer: Justina Blakeney / Photo: Frank Frances for Ruggable

While maximalism is much more colorful than its subtler counterpart, it doesn’t necessarily have to mean “more” in the sense of stuff.

Instead, it’s a bolder, more meaningful expression of your style—that’s how Justina Blakeney, designer and founder of Jungalow, sees it.

“One of the ways I like to express myself is through color, pattern, texture, and objects I’ve collected, and that reminds me of the people, places, and ideas that I love,” she says. “And it just so happens to be a lot!”

READ ON: Why Designers Are Leaving Minimalism Behind This Year