Maximalism vs Minimalism Bedroom Design

Maximalism and minimalism are opposites. While minimalism is about living with less, maximalism is about living with more.

Most people are familiar with minimalism, where fewer elements, clean geometries, and simple highlights give spaces balance. Maximalism flies in the face of this, with outlandish patterns and excessive details.

The truth is that maximalist spaces can be too over the top, with convoluted elements that make a room feel chaotic. But by the same token, minimalist spaces can feel soulless, so it is crucial to balance both approaches.

To minimalists, maximalist spaces make no sense because balancing an area with more elements goes against the less is more approach. To maximalists, minimalist rooms are soulless and lacking in character and charm.

This article explores the similarities and differences between maximalism and minimalism to help you figure out which is best for you.

The similarities

Minimalism and maximalism take different approaches to interior design, but some similarities guide decision-making.

The most significant similarity is symmetry, with both interior designs favouring repeat elements on both sides of an axis or centre line.

Another similarity is an emphasising feature, with both styles utilising one focal point (such as a bed) to draw the eye and set the scene for character and personality.

The final similarity is rhythm, with both styles creating a sense of movement in a space by drawing and leading the eye with lines, patterns, and colours.

The differences

You probably noticed that the similarities between the maximalist and minimalist styles are based on interior design principles.

The differences are much more apparent, from using clean, understated lines in minimalism to excessive patterns and geometry in maximalism. The two interior designs create spaces with very different personalities and charms.

The most significant difference is the number of features in a space. For example, a minimalist bedroom will have a bed, functional furniture, solid colours, and clean lines to lead the eye and create a sense of proportion.

A maximalism bedroom will use elements on masse, with more of everything, including furniture, colours, décor, and textures.

Another differentiator is the introduction of different periods. Maximalist spaces are unbound by minimalism's clean appearance. This provides more flexibility when specifying furniture, décor, colours, and geometric details.

Maximalist spaces are unapologetically bold, with outlandish patterns, colours, and statement furniture.

Minimalist spaces are unapologetically sparse, with white space, lines, geometry, and nature providing a sense of harmony.

The bedrock of minimalist design is a monotone colour palette made up of different tints and shades of a single colour. Maximalist styles use various colours, mixing bright and dull colours to create charm. 

Aside from the physical differences, there is a significant difference in how maximalist and minimalist spaces make you feel.

People typically find minimalist spaces relaxing and serene, while maximalist rooms are comfortable and homely. Both interior styles have quirks, so many people incorporate both elements into their bedrooms.

Common misconceptions

The most common misconception about maximalism is it is the same as eclectic. This is not true because eclectic refers to old and new – maximalist refers to excessive elements, which could all be old, modern, or both.

Another misconception is that maximalist spaces are chaotic – this is not true when rooms have symmetry and balance.

The most common misconception about minimalist interior design is that it is stark and barren, which is false because it uses plenty of elements but prioritises white space. White space is a feature of minimalist spaces.

Another misconception about minimalism is that it is all about the environment, but this is only when it exclusively uses organic, vegan, and natural products.

Maximalism and minimalism are misunderstood and have a place in the modern home. If you enjoyed this article, read our interior design trends piece.