Maximalism in 2025: Designing for Soulful Living

As an interior designer, I believe our homes should be more than beautiful—they should feed our spirit. This year, I’m seeing a shift away from safe, minimalist perfection toward something warmer, richer, and deeply personal.

This is the new maximalism—not clutter, but intentional abundance. It’s about surrounding yourself with pieces you love and creating spaces that tell your story. It’s design that reflects you and supports a life well-lived—a truly soulful way of living.

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Beyond the Clutter Myth

Maximalism often gets mistaken for excess, but we would argue that it can be curated with care. Every object has a purpose: it serves a function, holds a memory, or sparks joy. It’s organized abundance—layered, harmonious, and meaningful.

Designer’s note: If you’ve ever worried that maximalism will “feel messy,” I promise—it won’t, not when it’s done with intention. My role is to help you edit and layer so your home feels both lived-in and refined.

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Why are we seeing this shift?

After years of picture-perfect minimalism, many of us crave authenticity. The pandemic reminded us that our homes are more than backdrops—they’re where we live, work, and recharge. Minimalism can be calming, but it often asks us to hide the things that make us who we are. Maximalism celebrates them, allowing us to live surrounded by the colors, textures, and objects that nurture our souls.

Designer’s note: This is about creating a home where your personality isn’t tucked away in a drawer—it’s right there in the open, making you smile every day.

Layered Story Telling

When I'm designing, I start with a strong foundation—a modern sofa, a natural wood dining table, or a handwoven rug—and then build the story through layers. Vintage textiles, contemporary art, heirlooms, and global finds come together, each piece representing a chapter of the homeowner’s life.

Designer’s note: I love asking clients about the pieces they already treasure. A grandmother’s chair, a painting from your travels—these are the soul of your space, and everything else builds around them.

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The Soul of Vintage

Vintage pieces are at the heart of soulful living. They carry history, patina, and a sense of continuity that new items can’t replicate. Blending old and new keeps the space fresh—a mid-century credenza paired with modern lighting, or antique chairs reimagined in bold fabric.

Grounded in Organic Modern

The best maximalist interiors are anchored in natural, organic elements—woods, stone, and neutral backdrops—that keep the abundance feeling balanced. This grounding creates room for color, pattern, and personality to shine without overwhelming.

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The Importance of Execution

Soulful spaces need more than just good taste—they need expert execution. That’s why I partner with Vancouver renovation specialists like QUAY Construction. Their craftsmanship ensures that every detail, from structural changes to final finishes, supports the vision beautifully and functions flawlessly.

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Bringing it Home

If you’re ready to embrace maximalism and soulful living, start with what you already own and love. Add layers over time—pieces that tell your story and make your space feel alive. There are no rigid rules, only the pursuit of a home that feels authentic, welcoming, and uniquely yours.

Designer’s note: Your home should make you exhale when you walk in, wrap you in comfort, and quietly remind you of all the moments and memories that matter most.

The most memorable homes aren’t the ones that look perfect in photos—they’re the ones that feel perfect to live in. In 2025, that means embracing the beauty, depth, and comfort of intentional abundance and allowing your home to become a true reflection of your soul.

Start creating a space that speaks to you—one thoughtful choice at a time.

Follow along on Instagram for behind-the-scenes, styling tips, and project reveals.

@degiannidesigns