The Agency’s Manager of Corporate Content & Culture, Sarah Jansen-Mount, unearths the beauty and meaning behind “maximalist” interior decor, and the joys of living boldly and brightly.
Read more features spotlighting interior design in The Agency Magazine
As a collective design consciousness, we’ve been aesthetically monogamous for some time now with all-white interiors (perhaps subtly punctuated by moments of rattan and beige). But all signs are pointing to the next evolution of interior design skewing toward more. A riot of rococo mirrors, opulent brocade textures, graphic wallpapers that demand attention, bold floor coverings—it might be time to forgo living in a contemporary museum in favor of making a personal statement. Today’s most eye-catching designs are more “mob wife” loud luxury than “clean girl” minimalism.
Social media is saying as much. Oren John (@orenmeetsworld), known as the Internet’s Creative Director, spoke to the end of minimalism on Instagram: “We need to end interior minimalism . . . give me materials. Crown molding and wainscoting emerging like a phoenix from the ashes of time to bless our living spaces. Simple items complemented by stand-out items. Vibrancy. Accent ceilings. Perhaps a pink stone. Bespoke nails and art hangers.”
A space updated by Nickey Kehoe featured in Rizzoli’s Golden Light.
It wasn’t so long ago that we were all envious of Kim Kardashian’s Axel Vervoodt–designed Bel Air home. But are we no longer finding bliss in beige? Even Marie Kondo, the high priestess of minimalism, went back on her decluttering mantra and embraced the mess of life and parenthood. Achieving a perfectly curated space is no longer the end goal—and for that, we can all breathe a sigh of relief.
“The monochromatic allure of black and white is fading away,” says The Agency’s Pasadena-based Carmine Sabatella, who is not only a real estate agent but also a design professional. “In fact, it’s quickly looking quite dated. We’re now witnessing a deliberate movement toward eccentric elements, reminiscent of the bold expressions of the 1950s and ’60s. The key is thoughtful curation and true eclecticism; you have to intentionally bring the old and new together. Modern and vintage. Dare to mix patterns, saturate colors, and blend the old with the new. When you do, you have the opportunity to create incredible dimension and homey comfort.”
A bedroom in a home formerly owned by musician Rufus Wainwright.
After all, there’s creativity and freedom in maximalism. Seeking out opulent chandeliers or plush velvet sofas from estate sales. Hunting for gold-framed, old-world art that transports you to another time and place. Rejecting the notion that elevated design must adhere to strict rules, we are instead embracing the chance to express ourselves in all our glorious complexity through our spaces. It’s about creating rooms that tell a story. It’s about play and expression. We all want to feel something, especially in an AI world where the human aspect of art and design feels at stake.
In a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain, maximalism joins us for the ride. After all, life is too short to play it safe. So, go ahead, indulge your senses, be wacky, and bring treasures into your home. Isn’t life more fun when it’s a little bit loud? Designers are screaming yes.
