Are You “Less is More” or “More is Never Enough”?
In the world of interior design, there are two types of people:
The Minimalists, who believe in negative space, clean lines, and owning only one (perfect) chair…
And
The Maximalists, who believe in bold layers, brighter colors, and keeping every decorative object they’ve ever loved since birth.
But what if you’re not quite sure which one you are? What if you want to be a minimalist but your collection of vintage teacups says otherwise? Or you aspire to maximalism but get hives at the sight of too many throw pillows?
Fear not, whether you’re decorating a sleek Capitol Hill condo, a quirky rowhouse in Baltimore, or a cozy Fairfax craftsman, we’re here to help you figure it out.
The Case for Minimalism
From @jacquikoska on Instagram
Minimalism isn’t just a design style—it’s a lifestyle, a mindset, and for some, a religion. The true minimalist believes clutter is the enemy, beige is a love language, and one really well-placed lamp can change your whole life.
You Might Be a Minimalist If:
- You’ve uttered the phrase “visual noise” with sincere concern.
- You have exactly 3 coffee table books… and they’re all white.
- Your idea of art is one, large, expensive-looking piece on a white wall.
- You’ve visited a Scandinavian furniture store and whispered, “I feel seen.”
What Works:
- Clean lines, open space, and intentional placement.
- Thoughtfully curated pieces that feel elevated.
- Light, airy palettes (think greige)
What to Skip:
- Over-personalizing (sorry, but that 2008 concert ticket stub doesn’t need to be framed).
- Being so sparse that your space feels like an Airbnb between guests.
- Assuming empty equals elegant (sometimes it just looks… unfinished).
Local Tip: In D.C., minimalism pairs well with federal-style architecture and modernist furniture. A bold art piece in a sleek Logan Circle apartment? Chef’s kiss.
The Case for Maximalism
From @frankeenandesign on Instagram
More Color, More Texture, More Personality… More Please.
Maximalism isn’t “cluttered”—it’s layered. It’s about storytelling, personality, and unapologetically loving the heck out of your stuff.
You Might Be a Maximalist If:
- You’ve used the phrase “controlled chaos” while gesturing toward your living room.
- You own more than 10 decorative pillows and can justify each one.
- You find beige offensive.
- You treat every surface like a stage for your collections.
What Works:
- Bold colors and rich textures.
- Gallery walls with meaning (not just a Pinterest board come to life).
- Eclectic furniture, mixed eras, and playful accessories.
What to Skip:
- Letting your space become a museum—editing still matters.
- Buying things just because they’re “weird and cute” (we see you, crab-shaped lamp).
- Ignoring flow and function—your guests should still know where to sit.
Local Tip: Baltimore is a maximalist’s playground—Fells Point and Hampden are bursting with vintage shops and bold artists. If it’s a little weird and wildly unique, it belongs here.
What If You’re Both? (Spoiler: Most People Are)
From @hudsonandcrane on Instagram
Truth is, the best interiors mix elements of both. You can be a Maximinimalist or a Minimalaximalist. (Or just someone who likes a tidy space with a brightly colored rug and a few too many books. Welcome.)
Minimalists Who Flirt with Maximalism:
- Keep the structure clean but add one loud statement piece (like a mural or a dramatic velvet couch).
- Use color sparingly but powerfully.
- Showcase personal items in one dedicated space (like a gallery nook or styled shelf).
Maximalists Who Want Some Breathing Room:
- Limit displays to specific zones—like open shelving or a feature wall.
- Pick a cohesive color palette to prevent chaos.
- Use storage baskets to hide the less “decorative” items (no shame in hiding your remotes).
Local Tip: Northern Virginia is all about balance. Transitional design—where modern minimalism meets traditional warmth—is basically a NOVA birthright.
Still Not Sure? Take the Quiz:
From @andrastudiodesign and @ellashausofcolour on Instagram
You’re shopping for a vase. You choose:
A) A matte black cylinder with perfect symmetry
B) A technicolor ceramic jug shaped like a fish
C) Both. Because who said you have to choose?
You’re styling your shelves. You:
A) Space out a few neutral items and leave room to breathe
B) Layer books, candles, a globe, and a gold beetle statue you found in Alexandria
C) Spend two hours arranging, rearranging, and loving every minute of it
Your nightmare is:
A) A room full of tchotchkes
B) A room that looks like a dentist’s office
C) A room where someone else picked everything
Check your score:
Mostly A’s – you’re a Minimalist Monarch.
Mostly B’s – you’re a a Maximalist Maven.
Mostly C’s – Welcome to the real world, where thoughtful design lives between the extremes.
Design for Joy, Not Just Aesthetic
From @hudsonandcrane on Instagram
Whether you’re a minimalist monk, a maximalist magician, or just a person trying to make sense of their throw blanket collection, the goal isn’t perfection—it’s personality.
Design your space so that it feels good. Looks good. Works for your life. And maybe, just maybe, doesn’t involve 47 succulents or a single lonely chair in an echo chamber of white.
Your home may have a mix of historic charm, modern architecture, and your individual style. There’s room for every vibe—just make sure it’s your vibe.
Let Hudson & Crane bring your design ideas to life and work with you to create a space you love.
Hudson & Crane is an interior designer in Washington, D.C. serving residential clients in D.C., Maryland, and Northern Virginia.