Minimalism vs Maximalism: Choosing the right hardware

In the interior design world, it can be said that no two trends capture people’s interest quite like minimalism and maximalism. Both styles are popular in today’s design world, and both styles offer distinct approaches to creating a pleasing living space, with each having its own ethos and specific aesthetic. Minimalism is very much the art of subtraction, whilst maximalism sits at the opposite end of the spectrum, lending itself to complete sensory submersion and opulence at every turn.

Both trends are nuanced in approach and incorporating them into a project offers the opportunity to craft a luxurious environment, easily tailored to the homeowner’s specific needs, tastes and preferences.

Minimalism: The Art of Subtraction

The heart of minimalism lies in the ‘less is more’ approach. The philosophy removes superfluous details and focuses on calming, often monochromatic palettes, open spaces and clean lines. The goal of minimalism is to create a serene and clutter-free environment that feels open and inviting. The influence of Japanese and Scandi interiors has heavily impacted modern minimalist trends and given rise to the Japandi interiors that have been increasing in popularity in recent years.

In a stripped-back, minimalist space, every design choice must be considered and choosing the right hardware is crucial. Designs such as the Liberty and Elegance levers add a touch of class to any space that they sit in thanks to their unobtrusive but beautiful craftsmanship. In a minimalist kitchen or bedroom, the Teardrop Cabinet Knob adds a touch of luxury without pulling focus, blending seamlessly with its surroundings.

To take the trend further, sliding doors can cultivate an even more minimalist aesthetic by increasing the amount of space in a room, and cabinet edge pulls offer functionality and style without obstruction.

No matter the hardware style, finish is equally as important and modern finishes such as Zero Black, or soft options such as Satin Brass and Satin Nickel help to unify a space and cement the aesthetic without being too distracting.

Maximalism: Opulence around every corner

At the other end of the spectrum lies maximalism. This style is all about expression and exuberance. Gone are the monochromatic muted tones of minimalism – maximalism embraces colour, pattern and extravagance. Maximalist interiors vary greatly, and the styles can span from historical influences, rich in jewel tones and interesting fabrics, to modern maximalism with may incorporate more patterns, art and order. Maximalism is not about playing with every colour in the crayon box – it is about expressive, curated design that is bold, unapologetic and dynamic.

In a maximalist home, hardware can take centre stage and statement pieces are in. Bold designs such as the Rutland and Mayfair levers, along with textured pieces, and levers such as the Gropius, can all add extra interest to a room and elevate the overall styling.

Collections such as Art Deco and Fusion also add an extra touch of extravagance to a project with their fine detailing and nods to other design styles, and the cohesion that collections offer throughout the home ensures that a maximalist project remains considered and cohesive from start to finish.

Another way to ensure cohesion is through choice of finish, and luxurious finishes such as Polished Brass, Polished Chrome and Autumn Bronze can add extra touches of luxury and work with a multitude of colour palettes.

No matter whether you are drawn to the pared-back simplicity of minimalism, or the vibrancy of maximalism, no detail is too small to be missed and choosing the right hardware is crucial in creating a considered and cohesive design. With our all-encompassing portfolio, Croft can help to create harmony throughout a whole project, no matter the interior style. View our whole portfolio here.