Are you a minimalist or a maximalist? These two buzzwords surround interior design, art, music, fashion and more, and they're still going strong even though they originated in the 1960s.
Minimalism first became recognised as a movement among artists in the 1960s who rejected the constrictive conventions of fine art. Inspired by simplicity, they welcomed an objective approach to composition. Originally an aesthetic principle, the word minimalism soon became used colloquially and grew to cover fashion, literature, lifestyle, and home decor, among other things.
Maximalism later emerged as a rejection of restrained minimalism - with artists exploring instead vibrant, eclectic designs. Maximalism has experienced a resurgence in recent times, influencing art, interior design, fashion and more.
So which concept do you gravitate to? Are you a minimalist - understated and neutral - or do you prefer maximalism? Bold, bright and intricate? Perhaps you're a mix of the two.
Find out where you land on the minimalist/ maximalist spectrum below...
ARE YOU A MINIMALIST OR MAXIMALIST? FIND OUT BELOW!
Read on if you want to know more about minimalism and maximalism... including more indepth descriptions and gift ideas for the minimalist/ maximalist in your life (or your mirror!).
YOU'RE A MINIMALIST IF...
You like it plain and tidy and subscribe to the 'less is more' ethos.
The Goal of Minimalism: To create a relaxed and serene home by removing excess, allowing room for essentials.
Key Features:
Clean lines
Neutral colours or earthy tones.
Empty spaces.
Basic textures.
Buzzwords: Functional. Clean. Targeted.
Minimalist People.... Don't see the point in showing random decorative objects, and rarely have sentimental ties to objects. They don't like clutter and focus on simplicity and clarity of purpose.
Downside: It's a lot of work. Objects not used daily should be hidden from view. Cabinets should be decluttered regularly, clothes sorted and unused toys tided up regularly.
Our Recommended Gifts for Minimalists:
You're a Maximalist if...
You like attention grabbing and colour with bold creativity. You subscribe to the 'More is More' ethos.
The Goal of Maximalism: To highlight items of personal or sentimental value. To creat comfort. There are no set rules for designing a maximalist house or choosing a maximalist look, so the design may look eclectic to others, but everything has a purpose and a place.
Key Features:
Bold colours
Intricate patterns
Mix of textures
Buzzwords: Vibrant. Unlikely pairings. Harmony. Wow factor.
Maximalist People... are often collectors who want to show off their mementoes.
The Biggest Misunderstanding about Maximalist Interior Design: That it's all about clutter.
Our Recommended Gifts for Maximalists...
Not seen yourself in the descriptions above yet? Perhaps you're a mix of both - pairing elements of minimalism with maximalism. Bold colour and patterns with a simplistic architectural design, for instance. Or perhaps you're someone who likes to wear neutrals with a pop or two of bright, bold prints. Or maybe your house is clean and sleek with the exception of a gallery wall that houses a dozen bright eclectric prints and photographs.
Whatever your preference, we have gifts and accessories to suit the minimalist or the maximalist in you... and everything inbetween!
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