Take it to the max: Is clutter really so bad, and what if you don’t want a minimalist home?

Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. With this in mind, here, designers share their thoughts on why embracing your inner maximalist may not be such a bad thing… It suits our lifestyles “As an interior design style, minimalism has been a leading trend for several years now, with a pared-back approach and a light and airy décor, often influenced by Nordic design,” says Ben Stokes founder and interior designer for KAGU Interiors. With a less is more approach, it isn’t always necessarily realistic for busy families, or for modern-day homes having to adapt to become multi-use spaces, now so many people are working from home.” Being surrounded by things we love is good for our wellbeing In the quest for minimalism, with bare walls and a downscale on personal items, Stokes says people are often sacrificing the things they treasure the most: “From travel mementos, their book collection to family photos and cherished heirlooms. And by releasing the pressure to strive for perfection, you’ll find the joy in decorating.” More-is-more is on the up Jenna Choate, co-founder of Interior Fox, says: “We’ve noted a pivot in homeowners ditching a minimalistic scheme to embrace a more-is-more aesthetic, with bold uses of colour, pattern and texture in the home. “Embrace embellishment and upholstery, and put your favourite thrift finds on show.” You can put your creativity under the spotlight Nina Tarnowski, founder and designer for Woodchip & Magnolia, notes: “Maximalism is a trend loved by interiors enthusiasts, it allows creatives to showcase their personality through bold and daring design.” She says the key to this scheme is decorating with you in mind; showcase your favourite colours and patterns and display quirky ‘out of place’ items that you love, rather than storing them away.