February Journal: Refined Maximalism
Welcome to our February Journal! This month, we want to bring the concept of “Refined Maximalism” to the table. We all know that maximalist interiors tend to be lavish, bold, colorful, and full of life and pattern. When not implemented properly, it can often be perceived as cluttered, dirty, overwhelming, and overstimulating. This is the opposite of minimalist design.
Over the last few years, we’ve begun to see new iterations of the maximalist approach we refer to as “Refined Maximalism”. This is the concept of adding to a space not in quantity, but rather in attention to detail via architectural elements and design. Let’s dive in.
We like to think that Refined Maximalism falls in line with the recent uptake in Quiet Luxury which values quality, simplicity, and timelessness. It’s all about the finer things. How does this translate to interiors? Well, in craftsmanship like details, honest materials, heirloom antiques, and traditional patterns and textiles. Again, it’s not about adding more material items to a space, it’s the details you apply and how creative you are with the existing space.
One example of this can be seen in countertops, backsplashes, and side splashes. Any given home has these applications but it’s the intricately designed details that bring us to Refined Maximalism. We’re seeing stunning marble varietals with honed finishes, ogee edges, and back or side splashes that arch and curve to add interest. As Eames once said, “The details are not the details. They make the design”.
Another example can be seen in millwork and unique finishes such as bold lacquered paints, grasscloth-covered doors, or perforating custom cabinetry for ventilation. Incorporating patterned curtains behind glass, using a café curtain beneath a sink, or layering a patterned headboard on patterned wallpaper are all ways of adding personality and depth to a space without adding clutter. That is the key to Refined Maximalism. The exuberance of wealth is displayed in the architectural details, not the quantity of material items.
