OCR Interiors: In-house interior design services

2023 has enjoyed the growth of maximalist home design; a trend characterized by its rich, bold and eclectic approach to décor.  This approach has coincided with an increasing tend towards the philosophy of the home as an inner sanctum – a place of calm offering an antidote to the high stress levels faced in todays’ world.

But can the two be friends?

Maximalism is a popular interior design style that has been gathering pace in recent years. It typically involves the use of a wide range of colours, patterns, textures, and decorative elements to create a visually rich and vibrant living space. Think of it as a post-pandemic, humanity-led rebellion after the covid years deprived humankind of one of our most basic senses – touch. As a result, the rise in the popularity of tactile fabrics and increased appetite for a rich palette of materials no doubt tells the tale of the human desire for warmth, connection and the pursuit of wellbeing in 2023.

Which brings us to ‘wellbeing’. One of those buzzwords that conjures up images of spa bathrooms, houseplants and candles when applied to an interior design context. Serenity, peace, mental clarity. Not multi-layered fabrics and rich colour schemes. Or so we thought.

OCR Architecture’s in-house interior designer Molly Andrew explores six ways she believes the two worlds collide in a positively brilliant way:

1. Personal expression
Nothing promotes mental wellbeing like the chance to express yourself freely and uniquely. Maximalist approaches allow individuals to do just that in the most sacred of spaces – one’s own home. By surrounding yourself with objects, art, colours and fabrics that express your personality and interests, you can create a wonderful sense of comfort and familiarity in your own living space.

2. Comfortable Chaos
Maximalism embraces the idea that a home doesn't have to be perfectly organized and minimalistic to be calming. Instead, it can be a comfortable and welcoming space filled with items that bring joy. For many, this comfortable chaos can create a sense of relaxation, and an acceptance of an ‘imperfectly perfect’ home environment.

3. Emotional connection.
A maximalist approach often includes incorporating sentimental and cherished items into the design ethos. These personal touches can evoke positive emotions and memories, making the home a place of comfort and calm and promoting a space where people feel emotionally connected.

4. Balance and harmony
Despite its apparent visual chaos, maximalism often relies on a balance of colours, textures, and patterns to create a harmonious overall look. When done well, this balance can create a cohesive atmosphere, full of calming creativity.

5.Layered Comfort
 Maximalist interiors often feature layered textures, such as plush textiles, rugs, and cushions. These elements provide physical comfort and warmth, making the home a cozy and inviting retreat. What can be even more impactful, are the subtle layers found in the home. These can be achieved in less obvious ways, such as painting the wall, skirting and above the picture rail in a combination of tonal colours to create depth. Bringing in wall cladding, whether it’s classic shaker style panelling, or more contemporary batten panelling, can be another way to play with layers.

6.Mindful Curation
Despite its roots in the ‘aesthetic of excess’, the 2023 version of maximalism takes a more thoughtful and curated design approach. Rather than overwhelming a space, careful thought is given to the incorporation of each element – ensuring each piece contributes positively to the overall ambience of a space, giving it meaning and enhancing the lived experience overall.