Minimalist or Maximalist? Decide Your Style — And Own It
Let’s be honest. You can’t be both.
At least not at the same time.
There’s something freeing about asking the question plainly: Are you a minimalist or a maximalist?
Because somewhere along the line, we started trying to blend everything. We scroll past clean Scandinavian shelves one moment, then pin a photo of a boho book-filled nook the next. But your home can’t reflect who you are if you don’t know what makes you feel most alive.
This isn’t about design rules — it’s about energy.
And it starts with knowing your natural rhythm.
What Is a Minimalist Home?
Minimalist homes are about clarity, space, and breath. They speak in soft tones and simple gestures. Every item is thoughtfully selected and has a purpose. Every space is curated.
But minimalist doesn’t mean bare or like the word suggests, minimal items.
It means intentional.
A minimalist home might include:
- Neutral tones or a simple color story or bold but impactful
- Open space between furniture
- Clean lines, soft lighting, and quiet design moments
- A few statement pieces that tell your story with strength and simplicity
People who thrive in minimalist homes often say they feel:
- Mentally clear
- Calm and centered
- Focused on the present
Minimalism works beautifully for those who find peace in order and inspiration in restraint. It allows your eyes — and your mind — to rest.
I lean toward this style. I like a clean layout with just a few things that spark joy: a stunning mirror, a sculptural lamp, and a stack of favorite coffee table books. I sit on my gorgeous velvet sofa and feel connected to the pieces I chose — not overwhelmed by things I didn’t.
What Is a Maximalist Home?
Maximalism is not a mess.
It’s depth, texture, personality, and unapologetic flair.
A maximalist home is bold and full of life. It’s filled with books, art, textiles, plants, and furniture that feel collected rather than bought all at once. It tells a story from the moment you walk in.
I remember visiting one of my suppliers in Hong Kong. Her home was an absolute masterpiece of maximalism — vibrant wall colours and art, antique shelves filled with treasures from her travels, and lush greenery at every corner. I asked her how she maintains it. She smiled and said, “This is who I am.”
And that’s the point.
A maximalist home might include:
- Layered colors and patterns
- Gallery walls, open bookshelves, decorative objects
- Unique furniture, vintage finds, or collections of art
- Lots of plants, candles, music — a visual sensory experience
People who thrive in maximalist homes often say they feel:
- Energized and inspired
- Emotionally connected to their environment
- Free to express themselves
Maximalism is a celebration. And for the right person, it’s magic.
So… What’s Your Style?
Here’s what matters most:
Choose the energy that supports your life.
You may feel your best in a clean, minimal space with just the essentials. Or your soul lights up surrounded by books, objects, textures, and stories from your life. Maybe your seasons change. In your 20s, you craved more. In your 30s or 40s, you crave less — or vice versa.
There’s no correct answer.
But there is a true one — for you.
Start by asking yourself:
- Do I feel more relaxed or more inspired with space around me?
- Do I like collecting things or letting go of things?
- Which rooms in my life have made me feel most at home?
You might be a minimalist with bold statement pieces.
You might be a maximalist with a curated eye.
Just don’t try to be everything all at once. That’s when your space starts feeling “off.”
A Home That’s Intentionally Yours
Whether you’re minimalist or maximalist, the real goal is the same:
Create a home that reflects who you are.
You don’t have to follow Pinterest. You don’t have to recreate someone’s Instagram feed.
You just have to see yourself in your space.
That’s the heart of intentional decor.
Minimalist or maximalist — decide your style.
Then let your home become a mirror of your most beautiful self.
