More is more

Deep burgundies, gilt mirrors, period French furniture and ethnic style accessories have smothered the stark whites and clean lines of late 20th century interior style.

Sumptuous glamour and Versace-inspired regalism have fused to create the new decorating trend of "maximalism" that is all the rave of lifestyle fashion magazines American Vogue and Esquire.

This trend - furs, layers, beads or jewels, deep colours, a mix of new and "vintage" in a Georgian-style setting - isn't hard to spot. A celebration of flamboyant luxury, maximalism is best expressed through dark, rich and opulent colours. Think aubergine, deep purple, ruby, claret, burgundy, and scarlet, offset by velvet textured creams and flowing fabrics.

International trendspotters say this release into over-the-top multicultural excess is a relief from the pared-down simplicity of the early 1990s. Maximalism is a trend that only emerges during flush times, and yes, we've seen it before. Today's version is an update of the 1980s Dynasty-inspired style, this time with a multi-ethnic 21st century flavour.

Here, it could be considered an update-with-a-twist on the Georgian decor once so fashionable in Dublin. Maximalism is for the home what the fashion house designers of Paris are for the wardrobe. So how do you take this designer style and transform the average fourbedroom semi?

It does take a certain je ne sais quoi style to make this work. And it also takes effort. The antique stores of Francis Street and the weekend markets at Blackrock and Rathmines are probably the best places to pick up authentic outsize gilt framed mirrors and French period furniture to restore. Then update and transform antique furniture with a few modern ethnic accessories.

Using Georgian colours as the base, start with the entrance hallway and carry the style right through to the en suite bathrooms - remember this is a more, more, more philosophy.

Paint the walls the darkest and richest seductive colours you choose, then using cushions, antique ornaments and ethnic patterned materials, pile it on. Buy cushions in velvet, brocades or other rich fabrics. Drape chiffon or organza from windows or walls, and leave diamond studded shoes and carrier bags from Paris fashion houses lying around the lounge area.

Art and antiques should sit with classic furniture to make the maximalist home a great setting for lavish entertaining. Bedrooms become boudoirs while bathrooms are transformed into havens of relaxation with scented candles and fluffy towels in abundance. Excess is encouraged.

Minimalism was all about paring down modern life to basic essentials, maximalism is a licence to shop. Remember, more is more!

Maximalism is a licence to splash out and live lavishly. Photograph from Kevin McCloud's Lighting Book, Ebury Press, £18.99 sterling