Justina Blakeney Shares Key Design Tips for Refined Maximalism
Interior designer and artist Justina Blakeney has long been a prominent figure in the world of maximalist design. Known for her vibrant and eclectic aesthetic, she has helped shape the bohemian style that has captivated many over the past 15 years. In a recent interview for the Layered Lives series, Blakeney shared insights into her design philosophy, emphasizing that maximalism is more than just a collection of items; it is a carefully curated expression of personality and energy in a space.
Blakeney’s approach to creating spaces that are rich in color and pattern while maintaining a sense of refinement rests on three fundamental principles: rotation, context, and negative space. These guidelines serve to transform homes into vibrant, character-filled environments that invite both comfort and creativity.
Embrace Rotation for Freshness
“A home is never finished and should always feel like it’s evolving,” Blakeney stated. She encourages homeowners to engage in regular rotation of their decor items to keep the space feeling dynamic. Her own home features a basement filled with beautiful pieces she rotates to refresh her environment continually.
According to Blakeney, a static maximalist home can lose its intrigue over time. “As you become familiar with everything, the room can start to look like just a lot of stuff,” she explained. By mixing and matching items and regularly introducing new pieces, one can maintain visual interest and excitement in a maximalist setting.
Focus on Context and Relationships
The second rule Blakeney emphasizes is the importance of context. For her, a successful maximalist design involves thoughtfully pairing items that have meaningful connections. “There is more to being a practiced stylist than simply putting nice pieces together,” she noted.
For instance, she might place a family photograph next to an African mask, which serves as a family heirloom. This not only creates a visual dialogue but also tells a story that adds depth to the display. “You want to think of your pieces as characters in a novel that all have a part to play and all relate to everyone else,” she advised.
Utilize Negative Space Wisely
Even in a maximalist environment, Blakeney highlights the significance of negative space. “Negative space – or the air that has nothing in it – is as important as the music itself,” she remarked, likening it to the rests in a musical composition.
Her philosophy is that decor should not overwhelm a space. “My spaces may look maximalist but my decor will be layered, and there won’t be things on every single surface,” she explained. By allowing for open areas, one can enhance the overall livability and flow of the home, ensuring that energy can circulate freely.
Blakeney’s expertise extends beyond her design principles; she also offers a variety of products that embody her refined maximalist style. Her collaborations with brands like Target and Anthropologie feature items such as the stylish Ceramic Table Lamp and the vibrant Hilma Sunset Rug, both of which reflect her artistic vision.
As Justina Blakeney continues to inspire through her work, her commitment to evolving design principles encourages others to cultivate spaces that resonate with personal meaning and aesthetic joy.
