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It’s all about de-cluttering these days, isn’t it?
In these Marie Kondo inspired times, we’re forever clearing out the old to make way for something new. And there’s a distinct sense of guilt that comes with holding on to ‘too much stuff’.
Well, today, we’re indulging the maximalists. Because, as we see time and time again in the homes we photograph, the most inspiring spaces are those with bold character and personality – homes that stand out from the crowd, and leave a memorable lasting impression.
Here are some simple ideas to make ‘more is more’ your mantra.
Display Collections Consistently
Let’s face it – unless you’ve got a particular knack for it, achieving the ‘more is more’ effect without looking messy can be tricky. Filling a space with indiscriminate ‘stuff’ is not necessarily the goal here, and collections can look a little cluttered if they’re not curated tightly. Create consistent displays by choosing all one type of object, colour or material to bring some method to the madness!
Utilise bookshelves
Bookshelves are your best friends when styling any space. Not only do they offer ample display space for your artfully arranged bits and bobs, but they can also be a statement feature in themselves, when filled with the stuff they were made for: books, of course!
If you’re going for a more eclectic (or practical!) look, arrange books at random, mixing heights and styles to create a wonderfully mishmashed library. If you’re still looking for a little refinement, organise books according to colour or size. Amp it up with some snazzy bookends, like these snazzy OYOY ones.
Cluster artwork
The problem of having too much art isn’t really a bad one to have. But, if you’ve found yourself with more pieces than walls, consider consolidating your collection in a ‘salon’ style arrangement, to create a gallery-style effect (more on this here!).
Layer up!
Maximalist decorating doesn’t happen overnight. Transforming a blank space into something more eclectic is all about adding incremental layers.
Start with the basics – seating, a coffee table and some shelves in a living room – and build up from there. Add soft layers next – cushions and a throw rug, perhaps – then move on to art / wall hangings, book stacks and tchotchkes (aka knick knacks!).
Working in ‘layers’ encourages a critical eye, allowing you to edit as you go and see know exactly what works and what doesn’t in the process of adding and subtracting.
