Maximalist Interior Design is Trending: Why This Matters for Your Interior Design Business
Maximalist interior design is absolutely having its moment right now. You can’t scroll through Instagram or flip through a design magazine without being hit by a riot of colors, patterns, and textures. It’s bold, it’s unapologetic, and it’s the kind of eye-catching style that gets editors excited because, let’s face it, Maximalism has that undeniable wow factor. Even if it's not what most people want to wake up to every day, it sure does grab attention.
I always tell our clients that publishing is a business first and foremost. Magazines survive by getting people to pick them up and read their stories, which is exactly how cover decisions are made—what’s going to sell the most copies? Trends play a huge role in this. Remember back in 2020 when it seemed like every kitchen was green? If you were a designer with a green kitchen that year, you were probably getting published!
So, why do trends like Maximalism matter for your business if you want to get press? And what do you do if it’s not your style—or more importantly—if it’s not what your clients want? Let’s dive into all that and more!
1) The Power of Standing Out
In an industry as saturated as interior design, standing out is more crucial than ever. But this doesn’t necessarily mean following trends. It means that you as a designer have to push the boundaries of what everyone else is doing, and be a trendsetter, not a trend follower. It’s how Shea McGee built her brand. Nobody was doing her design style when her blog took off. She became known for something, and then everyone else copied. Editors want to see something they haven’t seen a million times. If a trend is currently trending, it’s usually too late to jump on the band wagon as a designer if you want to get your projects published. This is because from the time you start a project to the time you photograph it, it’s likely been at least two years. By then, something else is trending. So you need to think about what’s next. But when a trend is trending, it’s important to have a point-of-view about it, which brings me to…
2) Positioning Yourself as a Thought Leader
Trends come and go, but those who are seen as experts in their field have the ability to shape and influence the direction of the industry. By being an early adopter of the maximalist trend, you position yourself as a thought leader—a designer who is not only aware of current trends, but also skilled in implementing them in a way that is both innovative and timeless. This expertise makes you a valuable resource for journalists looking for expert commentary on the latest trends. It’s not just about getting your work featured; it’s about becoming the go-to source for insights on where the industry is headed. This level of authority can lead to more press opportunities, whether it’s being quoted in articles, interviewed on design podcasts, or featured in trend reports. Our Library Card membership is the perfect way for you to get quoted in articles. This service is your access to our relationships with journalists and we send you on average 15-20 press opportunities each month.
Even if Maximalism isn't your signature style, you can position yourself as an expert in contrast—especially on social media. Show how you skillfully balance different design elements to create harmonious spaces. You can draw comparisons between your approach and Maximalism, demonstrating that while both styles have their place, your designs offer a refined alternative that speaks to clients looking for a more understated yet equally impactful aesthetic.
Related: What is Thought Leadership?
3) Creating a Signature Style
One of the most powerful ways to establish yourself in the interior design industry is by developing a signature style that is instantly recognizable (like Shea McGee mentioned above or Kelly Wearstler or Amber Lewis). While trends can inform and inspire your work, they shouldn’t define it. By consistently applying your unique design principles, you create a body of work that is cohesive, memorable, and true to your vision. This signature style becomes your brand, setting you apart in a crowded market and making your work highly sought after by clients and makes it much easier to get published. When you focus on building a distinctive style rather than chasing trends, you create a lasting legacy in the design world.
4) Timeless Design Trumps Temporary Trends
Trends are, by their very nature, fleeting. And these days, more fleeting than ever! What’s hot today may be passé tomorrow. If you base your entire design philosophy on trends, you risk creating spaces that quickly feel dated. On the other hand, a timeless design approach prioritizes longevity, quality, and the enduring appeal of classic elements. Clients who invest in interior design often seek spaces that will stand the test of time, offering comfort and beauty for years to come. By focusing on timeless design principles, you position yourself as a designer who values quality over quantity—someone who can create spaces that clients will love for a lifetime. Not just until the next TikTok goes viral.
5) The Bottom Line: WHAT’s YOUR GOAL?
While it’s important to stay informed and be aware of what’s trending, it’s equally crucial to remember that you don’t have to adopt every trend to be successful. It all comes down to your goal, which is the first thing we ask any new client. If your goal is press, you need to have a keen understanding of what magazines are looking for, and play the game more than if your goal is just to have a successful design firm (a wonderful goal!).
