There's something about minimalism that's always spoken to me in ways that never felt possible in louder, bolder spaces. Incorrectly, I often tied maximalism with trends (such as cluttercore) or audacious color pairings that felt far too experimental for my small home. Then I saw Johnny Galecki's living room, designed by the eminent design duo Pierce & Ward, and it changed everything.
Johnny's home proves that the term 'maximalism' doesn't equate to something that feels overwhelming.
The olive-green paint, paired with the deep blue sofa and patterned rug, creates a bold – but not overpowering – canvas for his artworks and accessories to shine (we love this Brigitte Bardot print for a similar look). I'll admit, I never thought I would feel content in a maximalist living room, but Johnny's space is one of the dreamiest I've ever seen.
Few photographs are as iconic as this of Brigitte Bardot, and it would seem Johnny agrees. This artwork is printed using fade-resistant inks on high-quality, artist-grade canvas, resulting in vibrant colors and sharp details that enliven any living room wall.
This set of two square accent pillows is designed to bring a cozy, inviting warmth to any living space. Crafted from 100% cotton, they feature a soft, breathable cover enhanced by a playful ruffled edge and a rich orange hue that adds a vibrant pop of personality to any sofa.
Handmade in England in the early 21st century with meticulous attention to detail, and crafted in the manner of designer Paul Frankl, these chairs offer the highest quality construction, comfort, and enduring style – and they're inspired by Johnny's space, which makes them even better.
Move beyond fringe: this shade is beautifully detailed with cascading beaded strands and elegant cranes, a classic symbol of luck and longevity. To ground this vintage-inspired trend, contrast its delicate charm by incorporating a sleek, modern piece into your 21st-century interior design.
Refined and highly versatile, these twisted nickel candlesticks bring immediate drama to any setting. Their striking mirrored finish beautifully complements dark, gothic tones throughout the autumn and winter seasons and sparkles brilliantly when catching the holiday lights, making them a true all-season decorating staple
Shown here in Lulu and Georgia's Jade Tapestry fabric, the Alair ottoman is a petite yet personality-packed footstool that will add instant flair to your living room thanks to its retro fringe trim.
When creating a maximalist home that feels as curated as Johnny's, laying textures strategically is key. Abigail Ball, the marketing and brand manager at Bisley, has some advice on mastering this tricky aesthetic.
At Bisley, we believe the art of styling a maximalist living room is all about self-expression – curating colour, pattern, and personality to create a space that tells your unique story,' Abigail comments.
'This eclectic aesthetic invites you to be bold, layering textures, mixing vintage and modern pieces, and showcasing everything from artwork to treasured keepsakes. It’s not about following rules, but about creating a home that feels joyful, lived-in, and unmistakably yours.'
