A MAXIMALIST TOUR: 4 DESIGN SPACES

Lessons from some of the best in this category -- an office in Delhi, a multi designer store in Kanpur, a fine dining restaurant in Hyderabad and Abu Jani & Sandeep Khosla’s new Mumbai store

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Maximalism, whether in the form of bright colours, pattern drenching, statement furniture, or dramatic lighting, is a design trend going strong in 2025. Notably, there is a significant shift towards maximalism not just in residential interiors but also in commercial spaces such as offices, cafés, restaurants and boutique stores.

“Today’s commercial environments are no longer confined to sterile or muted aesthetics. They are becoming more expressive, layered, and bold,” says Pooja Gupta, founder and principal designer of I Design Studios. “Businesses are recognising the power of design in storytelling and customer engagement. Maximalism offers the perfect canvas to do just that. Through a rich mix of colours, eclectic patterns, and tactile textures, we help brands create immersive spaces that reflect their identity, evoke emotion, and leave a lasting impression on every visitor,” she adds.

This trend reflects a broader shift in how spaces are being viewed and utilised.

“Purely functional spaces such as workplaces, restaurants, and retail stores are also becoming expressions of culture, identity, and mood. In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, these spaces help promote increased brand recall and facilitate a positive and inspiring experience for those who work in these settings,” says Harkaran Singh Boparai, founder and principal architect of Harkaran Boparai Studio (HBS), an international design firm that is located in New Delhi, Amritsar and Dubai.

“Practical materials with luxurious finishes are often used, and ample storage and smart layouts help maintain flow and usability”