Flip through the pages of Architectural Digest or Elle Decor and you’ll notice something - nearly every space has fairly few items, but focal items are large.
Less is almost always more when it comes to sophisticated design. This is true regardless of where your style falls on the minimalist to maximalist spectrum and regardless of your design style (for the most part). Even in a designer maximalist space, there is often a small to moderate amount of objects, but the colors, patterns, and shapes are extra impactful.
This is contrary to how the average self-decorator tries to execute maximalism - by crowding a room or a surface with as many items as possible. Take a look at the two spaces below. Both are trying to achieve maximalism. Which one looks higher end?
The space on the left is cluttered with tons of individual pieces of decor - this creates a scattered and overwhelming feeling. The space on the right achieves a sophisticated version of maximalism by using strong, bold patterns in place of clutter.
Let's get back to the minimalist side of the spectrum. It’s important to have large and impactful pieces if you have a minimal space. Notice this room - there are extremely few objects and colors, but the designer added extra large statement artwork and a bold rug. The room may be minimal, but it has something to say.
