Design credit: House of Rohl Primary Bathroom by Michaelis Boyd, Photography credit: Billy Bolton
A much-anticipated fixture on the global design calendar, Wow!house at the Design Centre Chelsea Harbour never disappoints, and this year was no exception.
Its third iteration featured 19 rooms, each created by an array of international designers, paired with best in class interiors brands to create one show which was a real mecca for design enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Each year the show provides endless inspiration for lovers of maximalism, however this year the focus shifted slightly to room sets and moments that were maximalist in a way that was surprisingly muted and pared back, proving that maximalism lives on a spectrum.
The show signalled a shift towards Minimal Maximalism. But what is it and how can it be achieved? We’ve pulled together six trends from the event highlighting how to be a maximalist in a minimalist way.
Nurturing Neutrals
Design credit: Chase Erwin Library by Andrea Benedettini
Photographer credit: James McDonald
Maximalist interiors do not need to mean wild colours and prints. Andrea Benedettini’s library used texture, layering and embellishment in an array of soft neutral tones to create a cosy cocooning hideout. The curtained walls reflected the shapes of the impressive chandelier, while the fringing on the sofa, combined with the patterned rug, created layers and a sense of movement for a paired back maximalist feel.
Patterned Monochromatics
Design credit: Schumacher Courtyard Bedroom by Veere Grenney Associates
Photographer credit: James McDonald
Layering patterns is a maximalist go to. Veere Grenney Associates provided an excellent example of how this can be transformed into a minimalist matter in its bedroom design. A grand four poster was adorned in bold drapery, complemented by a simple backdrop in the same tones, creating a maximalist patterned paradise in a minimalist’s colour palette.
Nature’s Sanctuary
Design credit: House of Rohl Primary Bathroom by Michaelis Boyd featuring the Victoria + Albert Taizu Bath.
Photography credit: James McDonald
Bringing the outdoors in and evoking a feel of nature in interiors is always a good idea. As such, our absolute highlight of the show was Michaelis Boyd’s House of Rohl bathroom provides a grand sanctuary inspired by nature. With the Victoria + Albert Taizu bathtub as the focal point in a stunning verdant green, we can’t think of a more wonderful sanctuary in which to slip into for a peaceful soak.
Playful Primaries
Design credit: Sitting Room by Studio Ashby and United in Design
Photographer credit: James McDonald
Primary colours are a great go to palette to stick to when introducing colour. Sophie Ashby’s sitting room, in partnership with the charity United in Design, showed that simple primary colours do not mean a simple outcome. Soft shapes relax the powerful block colours making a calming space to relax and unwind in.
Natural Materials
Design credit: Dining Space by Suzy Hoodless
Photographer credit: James McDonald
Natural materials always help add character to a space. Suzy Hoodless’s warm dining space was complimented by impressive blond wood shelving and sculptural rattan. This tonally simple look packs a maximalist punch.
Look of Luxury
Design credit: Zimmer and Rohde Bedroom by Tolù Adèkó
Photographer credit: James McDonald
Is a little bit of luxury ever a bad thing? Tolù Adèkó’s superyacht design experience influenced this moody minimal maximalist look. Layering, patterns and block colours are what brings the maximalist here, with the luxury coming from the silky textures and rich colour palette.
WOW!House 2024 was in our opinion the best yet, so much so that we are already eagerly anticipating what is to come in 2025! Bravo, Design Centre Chelsea Harbour.
