Design experts at 247 Blinds and furn. have shared their thoughts on the larger-than-life trend, and how you can master the look yourself.

Rea Bell, design expert at furn. explains: “Cluttercore is a complete rebellion against minimalism and everything it stands for. It fully embraces the ‘more is more’ mentality and celebrates individuality by filling your space with things you love and throwing away the ‘rule book’. Creating a visually rich environment that feels like a true declaration of your personality, which also helps your home feel cosy, inviting and lived in.”

Amy Wilson, interior designer at 247 Blinds, comments: “Many hotels, pubs, and bars use cluttercore to create interest and depth in their schemes. Clutter tells a story and adds intrigue to a space.”

Embracing Maximalism and Cluttercore

Rea states: “Both maximalism and cluttercore are about embracing your inner desires and taking the plunge to decorate with the colours and patterns you truly love – whether that is by painting your walls in your favourite colour, choosing bedding with playful prints, or hanging up loud patterned curtains.”

Amy Wilson, adds: “Pattern on pattern is a great example of stylish cluttercore, along with eclectic collections and a penchant for vintage. People who are drawn to antiques are often great fans of cluttercore, as it allows them to collect to their heart’s content.”

Thoughtfully display your cherished items

Rea shares: “One way someone might play into this trend is by displaying their cherished items or trinkets. This can come in the form of everyday objects such as perfume bottles and jewellery, personal mementoes such as childhood toys or family photos, as well as collections such as stamps, books and figures.  

Amy Wilson adds: “There is a difference between mess and piles of stuff that is better suited to recycling, versus treasures, collections and items that hold memories.

“The key to mastering cluttercore is to only allow things you truly love to carry a special memory to stay and then not be afraid to style the clutter. For example, a shelf heading with travel souvenirs or a wall adorned with photographs in a variety of frames will still have an element of curation if grouped together.

Rea continues: “Approach it with intention, utilising shelves, bookcases, bedside tables, and other surfaces to group these items together. While it might seem counterproductive to bring in order, arranging objects by size, purpose, colour, or even aesthetic can create cohesion that ties everything together. Consider how accessories like dishes, trays, jewellery holders, and glassware can also be used to elegantly display these items.”

Be brave with pattern and colour

Rea shares: “Cluttercore is the perfect way to tap back into our childish nature and do things for our younger self. Many people feel that as they grow up, the decor and colour palette of their home has to mature too – but this is not true.

“Maybe you had bright pink walls or whimsical wallpaper in your childhood bedroom that you absolutely adored. Or perhaps orange has always been your favourite colour but you have never felt confident or brave enough to decorate with it. Cluttercore allows you to tap into those desires and feelings!

“Layering textures and clashing patterns is another way to elevate this look to the next level. Just remember that this trend is all about self-expression, decorate from the heart and don’t be afraid to experiment.

“If you’re hesitant to go all-in on bold colours and patterns, start with small accents like cushions, throws, or artwork. You can gradually add more as you become more comfortable.”

Amy continues: “We have heard so much about layering in interiors, and cluttercore embraces ‘all the layers.’ When considering window dressings, why have one when you can have two? Curtains hung in front of a roller or Roman blind will add drama and depth to your window, but don’t neglect the windowsill – this surface is the perfect surafce space for stacked books, groups of plants, and candles.”

“If your décor remains neutral, it allows more focus on the clutter, but cluttercore is all about embracing the ‘more is more’ aesthetic. A backdrop of patterned wallpaper and vibrant colours shows full commitment to this style.”

Wellbeing benefits of Cluttercore

Anna Jones, interior expert at furn., explains: “Finding joy in the little things and filling your home with items you love can make a massive difference. While some call this maximalism or cluttercore, we like to call it ‘Joy Drenching’ – decorating your home with what makes you happy and warm, no matter the season or the latest trend. It’s all about what feels good to you! Avoid getting wrapped up in micro-trends, and instead, focus on what best reflects your own sense of individuality.”

Amy expands on this idea: “There is no doubt that we live in a fast-paced world where everything feels disposable. The idea of holding onto things and giving value to the old is very appealing. Clutter provides memories, nostalgia, and a very comforting and grounding feeling.

“The best thing about cluttercore is the way it can express your personality – one person’s clutter is another person’s recycling pile, but that is the beauty of it.”