Cambridge Edition June 2026 - Web

MAXIMALISM

PAINT THE TOWN Thread patterns throughout your home with Iliv’s Tree of Life Collection in carmine (left) or spice up your palette with Annie Sloan and Charleston chalk paint in Rodmell, Tilton and Firle (right)

The end result is a space that feels uplifting and expressive without becoming overwhelming

see as purely functional pieces into real wow-factor design statements. Brightly coloured furniture taps into this beautifully; the clean lines of pieces like cabinets and lockers, for example, create structure, while a bright pop of colour introduces that sense of playfulness and personality.” The end result is a space that feels uplifting and expressive without becoming overwhelming, allowing practical furniture to spark both joy and creative confidence. Patterns galore Another signature feature of maximalist interiors is the introduction of different patterns. “Prints and patterns are one of the many ways in which you can enhance your home, and they offer a great chance to experiment with colours,” adds Debbie. “There’s so much to play with and they can be used in any room, from curtains and upholstery in the living room to cushions and bedding in the bedroom.” Iliv’s eye-catching Siyuri Collection offers an enchanting canvas that’s available for drapery and upholstery. You will find various examples of this in stock, alongside a full range of fabrics, at local independent home furnishings store Glasswells. “To start with, stick to three fabrics when using prints. The key is to vary the scale of the patterns. For example, if you

inspired by the look, but don’t know how to begin achieving it, use colour as your starting point. “Whether you choose a blue sofa or pink headboard, colour adds joy and drama to a space,” says Shelley. “Some are afraid to add colour, so I’d suggest a classic like blue, which will never go out of style. Another tip is to add colour on a small scale – cushions, vases and rugs introduce colour to a space without overpowering it. Remember maximalism doesn’t have to mean bright colours – pastels may feel more approachable.” When adding touches of colour through detailing or the choice of your accessories, consider repeating the same shade to bring a room together. “Rooms that pull it off usually have one thing in common: repetition. A colour that appears in the rug may show up again in a cushion or a piece of art. That thread is what stops a bold scheme from feeling chaotic,” observes Samantha-Jane. Becca Stern is the co-founder and creative director of Mustard Made, maker of eye-catching storage solutions. “Bold pops of colour have such a unique way of shifting how a space feels,” she says. “When used with intention, they bring energy and a sense of confidence to our interiors, transforming what most might

CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK JUNE 2026 69

Powered by