When we think about bathroom design, words like “simple,” “clean,” and “minimalistic” often come to mind. Modern bathrooms are frequently characterised by neutral colours, sleek lines, and a sense of order and calm. But what if you threw that rulebook out the window and embraced something a little bolder? Enter the maximalist bathroom, a design trend that’s all about embracing excess, bold patterns, vibrant colours, and eclectic details.
Why Go Maximalist in the Bathroom?
- Maximalism Reflects Personality: Minimalist bathrooms are often so neutral that they become indistinguishable from one another. A maximalist design, on the other hand, allows you to inject your unique personality into your bathroom space. Do you love vibrant colours? Are you a fan of vintage furniture? Do quirky art pieces or travel memorabilia speak to your soul? The bathroom is an unexpected but delightful place to let these elements shine.
- A Bathroom Can Be More Than Just Functional: We often treat bathrooms as purely utilitarian spaces. But why not make your bathroom an enjoyable, aesthetic experience? The joy of maximalism is that it can transform even the smallest, most functional areas into something visually exciting and refreshing. A maximalist bathroom offers a sense of luxury, individuality, and creativity that turns a mundane routine like brushing your teeth or taking a bath into something enjoyable.
- Great for Small Spaces: One of the most surprising benefits of maximalist design is that it can work exceptionally well in small bathrooms. Instead of trying to make the space look larger through minimalism, maximalism embraces the cosy, intimate nature of smaller spaces by filling them with layers of design elements.
These layers create a sense of depth and interest, making the space feel rich and full, rather than constrained.
Creating a Maximalist Bathroom
- Bold Colours and Patterns: Maximalist design thrives on the interplay of different colours and patterns. Consider painting your walls in deep, jewel tones or using wallpaper with a bold, intricate design. From florals to geometric shapes, don’t shy away from patterns that demand attention. A maximalist bathroom can even mix multiple patterns – just ensure they share a similar colour scheme or theme to avoid visual chaos.
- Mixing Materials: One of the joys of maximalism is the opportunity to mix various materials in one space. You could pair marble countertops with ornate gold fixtures, a velvet-upholstered vanity stool, and luxury floor tiles. This blending of textures adds depth and dimension, turning your bathroom into a space filled with discovery.
- Statement Fixtures: Gone are the days of boring faucets and standard sinks. In a maximalist bathroom, every fixture can – and should – be a statement piece. Think of an intricately detailed brass faucet, a freestanding bathtub with claw feet, or a chandelier hanging from the ceiling. These pieces instantly elevate the room and make it feel luxurious.
- Layering Décor: Maximalism isn’t just about the major design elements; it’s also about the finishing touches. In a maximalist bathroom, don’t hesitate to layer the space with decorative elements. Add artwork, hang ornate mirrors, place houseplants around the room, or display beautiful jars filled with bath salts and lotions. Every corner should feel considered and curated.
- Unexpected Furniture Pieces: While bathrooms typically stick to basic storage units or vanities, a maximalist bathroom can include unexpected furniture pieces. A plush armchair, a vintage rug, or a statement shelving unit adds extra character to the space. These pieces make the bathroom feel like an extension of the rest of your home, rather than a clinical afterthought.
Tips for Achieving Maximalist Balance
- Stay Cohesive with Colour: One of the easiest ways to keep your maximalist bathroom from feeling overwhelming is by anchoring it with a cohesive colour palette. Pick two or three main colours and use them throughout the space in various shades and patterns to create harmony.
- Edit with Intention: Maximalism doesn’t mean hoarding; it means thoughtfully curating pieces that work well together. Before adding new items, ask yourself if they add to the overall story of your space. Each piece should have a purpose, even if that purpose is purely decorative.
- Use Mirrors: Bathrooms are typically small, so using mirrors can help open up the space while adding an extra layer of design interest. Choose a vintage mirror with a gilded frame or a collection of smaller mirrors to create a gallery wall.
- Don’t Forget Practicality: Even in a maximalist space, your bathroom still needs to function. Make sure that amid all the décor, you’re leaving enough room for essential items like towels, soap, and storage. The key to maximalism is achieving a balance between the opulent and the functional.