Hamilton will be discussing her new Maximalist ideas on stage at this year’s Calgary Fall Home Show where she is one of the headliners. She tells Condo Living in an interview that “repetition, layering and contrast” can work wonders in introducing this new “more is more” style.
“Traditionally, Maximalism has been described as a rejection to minimalism and is contrasted by using what could be considered excessive, overly elaborate or unnecessary design elements. It is the idea that ‘more is more,” she says.
But the design TV personality says her interpretation of the Maximalist method isn’t a direct counterpoint to the Minimalist approach — a design that is commonly seen among many of today’s contemporary homes.
“Minimalist design, if done properly, doesn’t have to be cold and austere; it is just focused more on streamlining space and keeping accessories and other design details at a minimum. In contrast, Maximalism is the celebration of design elements like texture, colour and pattern all in once space. Ultimately, interior space is an outward reflection of our style and preferences so when designing a space it should feel like you, whatever that is.”
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She continues: “As a current approach, we see Maximalism as an exploration of eccentricity; a celebration of eclectic personalities woven into interior space.
“Layering materials, furniture and other design elements together will allow you to create vignettes that still feel tailored and pulled together while exploring more to a maximalist design aesthetic.”
Her Amanda Hamilton Design Studio is based in Calgary and her work can be seen in numerous residential, restaurant, retail and office spaces. Her show homes for Dream Homes have been featured in New Home Living, and in countless other design publications. She has been practicing Interior Design for about 15 year.
“My studio, Amanda Hamilton Interior Design, just celebrated nine years in business in August. We are launching a new business on August 30th, Palette Archives, that is an e-commerce based business that provides designer-curated finish + material palettes.”
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She has appeared at the Calgary Fall Home Show (and the Calgary Home + Garden Show) numerous times and she always looks forward to every opportunity to reach audiences here. “I’ll have some giveaways this time, too,” she says.
Amanda Hamilton
She doesn’t believe in trends. “I see them but as soon as you see something over and over, it’s already mainstream. Make your own trends, be a leader that others want to be inspired by.” And her Maximalist style can be seen as an anti-trend, as it speaks more about your unique tastes and personality.
Here are some of her tips to achieve a Maximalist space:
It’s easy to go overboard, which Maximalism lends itself well to. If you want to explore the “more is more” idea but still keep a tailored space, here are a few tips.
Repetition: Whether it’s artwork, teacups or vintage belt buckles, display your collection all in one spot to create a big impact.
Layering: Instead of selecting a matching bedroom set (snooze!) find vintage pieces that are all different but speak to each other. Instead of doing traditional bedside tables, layer two tables together and top with books, boxes and pair with floor lamps vs. table lamps to keep space on your nightstands and add to the layered effect.
Contrast: Focus on intentional disharmony versus everything matching perfectly. The best way to do this is to focus on using variations of colour. For example, if you love green — try to explore light green, dark green, jade, teal, navy, mustard, all together in one room. It will create more visual interest.
Amanda Hamilton
Amanda won’t be the only one presenting new ideas at The Calgary Fall Home Show. Other headliners include Tommy Smythe, Leigh-Anne Perrault and Tiffany Pratt.
Tommy Smythe
Tiffany Pratt
Leigh-Anne Perrault
Marketplace Events, the organizers for this annual home show taking place September 20-23 at the BMO Centre at Stampede Park, says they are very excited for this year’s line-up.
The Calgary Fall Home Show has been a staple in consumers’ calendars since 1983, attracting more than 27,000 qualified visitors every fall. Produced by Marketplace Events, the show features high-interest exhibits, high-profile industry personalities and the latest home and lifestyle trends. Marketplace Events produces 58 home shows in 32 markets that collectively attract 1.8 million attendees and another 3 million unique web visitors annually.
The Calgary Fall Home Show runs from Thursday, September 20 at 4 p.m. to Sunday, September 23 at 6 p.m. at the BMO Centre at Stampede Park. Stay tuned for the final Main Stage schedule, slated for release in August. For more information, or to buy tickets online and save $3, visit calgaryfallhomeshow.com.