Maximalist vs. Minimalist Style and Design

Which do you prefer?

At K&B, we are seeing a greater focus on design elements and the use of color among homeowners in Northeast Ohio who are renovating kitchens, baths, and other living spaces. Neutral color schemes that include shades of white, beige, and gray remain extremely popular because they provide a clean, timeless, and versatile palette that allows homeowners to use pops of other colors to create unique and personal design statements.

Maximalism vs. Minimalism

Maximalist style brings joy to the home. Maximalism features colors, shapes, tones, textures, and statements to create a vibrant space.

Maximalist characteristics: Striking, bold, playful, layers, experimental

Minimalist style is liberating. Minimalism emphasizes the core qualities of life and simplified space by removing everything that isn't essential to create a space that is serene.

Minimalist characteristics: Monochromatic, simple lines, a handful of essential elements, refined

There is an increasing interest in maximalist styles. Homeowners that are attracted to maximalist styles gravitate toward a mixture of patterns, colors, textures, and objects that produce a rich and vibrant space. Maximalist styles allow homeowners to make a creative and individual design statement that is both fun and exciting.

The use of bold colors is increasing in popularity. Bold colors are being specified as accent colors, including dark blues, rich greens, and vibrant reds that contrast more neutral background colors to create a visually appealing balance.

Two-tone contrasts are another terrific design solution in kitchen and bath design. The use of two colors allows homeowners to create visually interesting and dynamic focal points in their homes. Recent examples of two-tone palettes include kitchens featuring white upper cabinets with dark countertops or islands. Combining light and dark adds depth to a space and added interest to any kitchen or bath.

Google searches continue to indicate an interest in a minimalist style, with searches for the term “minimalist” remaining steady from May 2020 through May 2023. Minimalists embrace an intentional choice to simplify.

We have seen a growing interest among homeowners that are attracted to using different shades of a single color to add harmony and sophistication to their new kitchen or bath—a monochromatic or tone-on-tone look. Examples may include different shades of gray, blue, or green that add elegance to the space.

Which do you prefer? Maximalist? Minimalist? A combination? In creating your dream kitchen or bath, personal preferences, style, and design aesthetic are the most important factors to consider. Ask yourself how you want your kitchen to look and feel when the renovation is complete. What personal statement do you want to make? We can help guide you and provide options to make you smile whenever you enter your new kitchen. Call us at 440-543-8050 or visit the K&B Showroom at 8454 Washington Street in Chagrin Falls, and let us help you color your world with a color palette and design that are distinctive, personal, and the envy of the neighborhood.