Achieving a ‘Maximaluxe’ Design Aesthetic with Cafe Lighting & Living

There’s no doubt that the white-on-white minimalist ‘cloud dancer’ aesthetic forecast by Pantone has brought calm and softness to our mood board projects. As we look ahead to interior design predictions, rich colour and pattern also form part of a growing trend in interiors. The good news is: you don’t have to choose, you can blend both.

A recent 2026 trends compendium places ‘joyful maximalism’ alongside biophilic living and refined minimalism as one of the defining directions shaping interiors. It highlights layered textiles, curated collections and sculptural furniture, all grounded by craftsmanship and considered colour palettes. 

Cafe Lighting & Living have embraced this evolution with their own interpretation: ‘Maximaluxe’. Think of it as the capsule wardrobe of interiors. Investment-minded, design-led pieces form the foundation, layered with expressive colour, rich texture and striking silhouettes. It’s luxurious without being overwhelming. In short, edgy elegance. Let’s delve into their styling advice for how you can achieve this aesthetic in your designs.

Achieving a ‘Maximaluxe’ Design Aesthetic

Cafe Lighting & Living have created their own expert top tips to help you bring ‘Maximaluxe’ to life on your mood boards.

• Embrace Eclecticism: Combine different design elements, eras, and cultural influences. Mix vintage, classic, and modern pieces to create a unique story.
• Bold Colour Palettes: Rich, saturated hues mixed with bold patterning (like leopard) and unexpected colour combinations are key, moving away from purely neutral palettes. The introduction of gold elements are essential to add the 'luxe' into maximaluxe.
• Use Statement Pieces: Feature eye-catching furniture, oversized art, or dramatic lighting that serves as a focal point and conversation starter. Rooms are embellished with eclectic, oversized and sculptural shapes, objects and artwork which are as directional as its furniture.

• Layered Textures & Patterns: The trend thrives on layered patterns and rich textures like velvet, bouclé, and intricate decorative finishes to create sensory richness and depth. Geometrics, gestural paint strokes and natural surface patterns, like veined marble and wood grain, are essential for creating a sensory experience that isn’t overwhelming.
• Balance Boldness with Structure: Use neutral elements or structured displays to organise the abundance and prevent the space from feeling chaotic or cluttered.
• Curated Collections: The focus is on spaces that tell a story, filled with interesting objects, vintage finds, ornate details and metallic luxe elements. Tabletop vignettes are full of treasures which can hold their own.

Creating ‘Maximaluxe’ Mood Boards Projects

‘Maximaluxe’ rooms evolve through carefully curated abundance: plush upholstery, sculptural lighting and decorative objects balanced by warm neutrals and disciplined editing. Cafe Lighting & Living’s mix of ornate detailing, rich finishes and contemporary silhouettes means you can create that ‘edgy elegance’ easily in your mood board projects.

When building your mood boards, think in vignettes. Style a dramatic buffet with layered table lamps and metallic décor. Pair a boucle occasional chair with a marble side table and oversized artwork. Add texture through patterned cushions, ceramic objects and reflective finishes. Every Cafe Lighting & Living piece plays a role, whether it’s visual impact, emotional warmth or functional sophistication. Done well, ‘Maximaluxe’ is about longevity and comfort, not fleeting trends. Cafe Lighting & Living’s collections make it easy to design with that investment mindset front of mind.

Ready to make a maximaluxe mood board using Cafe Lighting & Living’s top tips? Head to our product library to find their products, then use our mood board tool and Project Studio to bring your designs to fruition!