Journal

Maximalist Furniture & Lighting Ideas

Many pieces in our catalogue lean more toward Scandinavian and modern interiors, but the variety also means there are great options for maximalist homes. Maximalism is a bold, eclectic, and vibrant approach to filling a space with things that speak to you and accentuate and reflect your personality. These exciting interiors are fun and a little wild—so not for everyone—but really start conversations and draw people in. The maximalist space is perfect for those with a lot to say, a huge appreciation for the unique and art-forward, and an affinity for curation. To inspire your inner maximalist, we’ve collected from maximalist furniture and lighting ideas for your home.

What Makes Maximalism Fun

Though it might seem that chaos is at the heart of maximalism, there’s actually quite a bit intention behind the concept. Because just throwing items into a room does not equal design. Rather, you need to plan your chaos, put some method behind the madness.

“[Maximalism] is a celebration of the ornate, the intricate, and the abundant. This design philosophy encourages the layering of patterns, textures, and colours. It's about creating spaces that are rich in detail and sensory experiences.” - Henry Williams, coldharbourlights.com

The fun of maximalism comes when you boldly embrace mixing and matching patterns, hanging the odd art next to the antique brass wall light, and layering materials, mediums, and textures. This type of space really invites you to experiment and have fun, but do it in a way that has some thought and intention behind it.

Eames® Lounge Chair and Ottoman - Leather - Herman Miller® - Chairs - Tall - Ebony Ash - Prone Lotus - HORNE

Three Principles of Maximalist Design

Though maximalism ultimately relies on you choosing pieces and art that speaks to you most, there are a few rules to keep in mind to maximize your maximalist look.

  1. Choose the Maximalist Centerpiece. If you want your furniture to dominate as the unique accent that brings pattern, color, and unusual silhouettes, then that’s perfect and commit! If you’d rather focus the maximalism on your décor, go all the way with it. But we recommend you don’t do both. Because the problem then becomes that you’ve overwhelmed the space and the senses. Delicately mix items but always start with a more neutral or stable base. For example, a blue velvet sofa paired with a lightly patterned accent chair, surrounded by rattan lamps, plants, and bold art that brings it all together.
  2. Do not fear color. You don’t even have to pick a wild color palette with ten different colors. Instead, a solid three foundational colors with a few accent colors fulfills the brief and packs that punch that will leave guests talking and you feeling like you’ve achieved your maximalist dreams.
  3. Sprinkle in ornate details. Not every piece you bring into your maximalist space needs ornate details, but sprinkling it in adds that depth and variation that enriches the maximalist concept. We also highly recommend blending design eras—the Mid-Century dresser next to the reclaimed 19th-Century table light captures that multidisciplinary feeling that defines the maximalist living space.
Hortensia Armchair - Moooi Chairs - Hortensia Armchair Petal Grey - HORNE

Maximalist Furniture & Lighting Ideas

The best of maximalism comes from many sources and the design studios we source from know what makes homeowners and designers happy. Here are some of our favorite maximalist furniture and lighting ideas.

Maximalist Tables

The maximalist table is not too crazy, but it does have a defined presence. The ultimate companion to sofas and lounge chairs that catch the eye, the table in a maximalist space is often part of the neutral foundation.

Eclat - Sofia Enamel Coffee Table

For this one, you’ll want the Sofia Enamel Eclat table because it has five bright, bold, and distinct color options that can easily introduce that primary color palette. Sophisticated with soft lines, the Eclat coffee table still has an unflinching presence that really pulls a look together.

Eclat - Sofia Enamel Coffee Table - Urbia Coffee Tables - Aegean Teal - HORNE

Arvin Coffee Table

A pillar base like the one featured in the Arvin Coffee Table is a great detail to look for when styling and curating a maximalist space. This big aspect perfectly complements the smooth wood tabletop and the two together create a refined, but impactful table to accompany any sofa or lounge chair.

Arvin Coffee Table - Vincent Sheppard Table + Task - Natural Oak - Mushroom - HORNE

NoNo Table

We say YES! to the NoNo Table. The product of collaboration between Note Design Studio and Norm Architects, this table is a study of balance. The solid top and slender legs come together and create an engaging and graceful table that fits any style interior. In a maximalist living room, this table acts as the calm in the well-planned storm.

nono coffee table

Maximalist Décor

Décor in these spaces is truly eclectic and really follows where your heart leads. While still trying to integrate the color palette you’ve chosen, add in some unexpected pieces that are just a little different.

Folia Mirror

The glass of the Folia Mirror is placed in a unique frame that creates nature-inspired, pond-like shapes that add an amorphous and undulating flow to any space. Choose from dark- or light-stained burl wood for the frame and enjoy the natural, but slightly eccentric character of the Folia Mirror.

Folia Mirror - 82 - Ferm Living Mirrors - Dark Stained Burl - HORNE

Riban Vase

Whether you're displaying fresh blooms from your garden or creating striking displays, the Riban Vase delivers both practical function and artistic presence. Wavy lines emulating the natural draping of ribbons wrap around the mouth-blown glass to create an understated sophistication. We love the color palette and unusual shape that’s really bold, but highly functional.

Riban Vase

Portico Planter

The Portico Planter is so fun with its bright color options and sculptural presence that is a spark of whimsy you’ll definitely want to add to your home. Use it to house a wild and untamed houseplant, or simply fill it with some water for your cut flowers.

Portico Planter - Misewell Pots & Planters - Dune - HORNE

Knot Cushion

The Knot Cushion is a classic. Delightfully twisty yet still refined, this cushion looks fantastic on the sofa or the floor. Minimalist, beautifully Nordic, and just fun to have around, we highly recommend the Knot Cushion for maximalist spaces where you lounge and gather.

Knot Cushion - Design House Stockholm - Blankets + Throws + Pillows - Grey - HORNE

Chairs & Sofas with Maximalist Vibes

There’s nothing specific that defines a maximalist sofa or chair. Rather, you’ll want to use it as an opportunity to incorporate some texture and pattern through upholstery. Additionally, consider the frame and shape to add that bit of whimsy, or carry the thread of consistent materials in the design composition.

Rico Lounge Chair – Swivel

This wing-backed plushy chair is one of our favorite Ferm Living lounge chairs. Positioned on a swivel base, you’ll love the charm and comfort the Rico Lounge Chair brings to your maximalist living room, bedroom, or office. Choose from a variety of upholstery options, including stripes, to reinforce your color scheme or add something a little different.

Rico Lounge Chair - Swivel - Ferm Living Chairs - Rich Velvet - Beige - HORNE

Towne Sofa

The Towne Sofa from Gus* Modern is sleek and modern, with clean lines and a classic, tufted design. This is a great choice for bringing a Mid-Century aesthetic into the eclectic maximalist space. Additionally, the Towne Sofa has deep cushions and plenty of space to accommodate a crowd in luxurious comfort.

Towne Sofa - Gus* Modern - Sofas - Funfetti Linen - HORNE

Franco Albini Ottoman

A little bit of rattan never goes amiss in a maximalist space. You can bring it in through lighting, or with the Franco Albini Ottoman. We love how round and lightweight these ottomans are as well as the way they add a touch of Bohemian without being too heavy-handed in that style.

Franco Albini Ottoman - Sika Design - Stools + Benches + Ottomans - Small - Natural - HORNE

Melinda PS Chair

The Artless Melinda PS Chair is a gorgeous and captivating modern lounge chair richly upholstered in a contrasting and luscious fabric designed by Paul Smith. The stripes have a retro vibe while the frame of the chair is unique and a little Mid-Century. Everything about this chair screams comfort, rest, and style are top priority.

Melinda PS Chair - Artless - Chairs - PS Point - 1 - HORNE

Lighting that Elevates Maximalist Spaces

We love lighting here at HORNE and understand that it must be as functional as it is fun to look at. For a maximalist space, you definitely need a light that enhances the space both in its illumination as well as its uniqueness.

130 Bouquet Chandelier - 3 Shade

Hand-folded paper really adds a bespoke element to the 130 Bouquet Chandelier. Three paper lanterns are bundled together to create a whimsical pendant light that is beautifully atmospheric. Perfect for dining rooms, living rooms, and offices, the 130 Bouquet enhances the ambiance and creates a refined, calming atmosphere.

Le Klint 130 Bouqet Pendant light

Setago Portable Lamp JH27

Inspired by mushroom shapes and the desire for a quirky portable lantern, the Setago Portable Lamp JH27 can be plucked like foliage from the floor and carried from one room to the next. To recharge it, simply use the USB cable and then enjoy up to 10 hours of charming illumination.

Setago Portable Lamp JH27 - &Tradition - Table + Task - Twilight/Sand - HORNE

BL3S Floor Lamp

The Bestlite BL3S Floor Lamp offers a perfect balance of minimalist design and functional elegance. Originally designed by Robert Dudley Best in 1930, this iconic lamp seamlessly combines sleek metal and chrome elements with a graceful, swan-like silhouette. Use this lamp in the corner behind the sofa or lounge chair or station it near study spaces or desks.

BL3S Floor Lamp - Gubi - Floor Lamps - HORNE

Maximalist Rugs

A great finishing touch to any room, the rug is a great place to experiment with and add color, pattern, and texture. In maximalist spaces, rugs are also artistic elements that add character without taking up too much space.

Arch Tufted Rug

The mesmerizing Arch Tufted Rug is crafted from supremely soft, 100% New Zealand wool. Dyed in a variety of bright colors, the wool is then woven into starburst stripes that immediately catch the eye and contribute to the playfulness of any space.

Arch Tufted Rug - Ferm Living - Rugs - Large - Dark Brick/ Off - White - HORNE

Bloco Tufted Rug

Perfect for adding a touch of warmth and dynamism to your space, the Bloco Tufted Ferm Living Rug is a unique merger of art and craftsmanship. The rug’s design draws inspiration from playful explorations in paper cuts and collages, introducing fresh and engaging color combinations.

Bloco Tufted Rug - Ferm Living  Rugs - Large - Green/Off - White - HORNE

Mara Knotted Rug

The Mara Knotted Ferm Living Rug reimagines the classic woolen rug with a bold checked pattern and decorative fringes. Hand-knotted from soft New Zealand wool, this rug brings a tactile and inviting texture, as well as modern edge to your space. Its striking graphic artwork is an instant statement piece that effortlessly enhances any room with its contemporary charm.

Mara Knotted Rug - Ferm Living Rugs - Large - Dark Brick/ Off - White - HORNE

Where to Find Furniture Maximalist Homes

If maximalism appeals to you, then you’re in the right place! With unique pieces that pull inspiration from everything from nature to retro aesthetics and shapes, we can help you create the idyllic maximalist space that feels like you’ve come home. Love your home and everything in it by shopping our modern lighting, modern furniture, and unique home décor collections.

Explore related collections, including Dressers + Armoires, Bedroom Furniture, and Bedside Tables & Nightstands, and visit our design guides for a broader point of view.