Minimalist vs maximalist style: how to tailor your kitchen aesthetic

You’re either one or the other – a minimalist or a maximalist. And while vastly different, when curated well, both styles can add just as much character and class to your kitchen. Here’s how you can tailor your kitchen aesthetic according to your style.  

Minimalist style for the kitchen 

What is minimalism? 

From humble beginnings in the 1950s, the minimalism trend has transcended decades to remain a popular style choice for many today. By definition, ‘minimalism’ means to strip back or remove excess detail in favour of sleek, simple and sophisticated choices. In a kitchen, this might be included via a neutral colour palette, the physical layout of a space or the styling choices. 

How do I create a minimalist kitchen? 

Despite what you may think, creating a minimalist aesthetic doesn’t mean no colour or flare – it just means removing anything that doesn’t bring you joy.  

When it comes to nailing the minimalist style in your own home, there are some guidelines you can follow: 

1. Less is more  

Rule no. 1 of minimalism is that less clutter, equals more style. From clearing any unnecessary items from your kitchen bench to hiding appliances in a dedicated cupboard, making sure your space looks and feels clean is an essential part of the style. Ask yourself: do these items really need to be on display? If the answer is no, shift them! 

2. Stick to a theme 

Minimalist kitchens are a carefully curated mix of colours and items that match. So, whether you like calm tonal hues, classic blacks and whites or bright and bold colour – pick a theme and stick to it. This might mean colour coordinating your crockery or using table decorations to add depth or texture. This goes for your appliance colours too. If most your bigger appliances are stainless steel, make sure you coordinate smaller items like your kettle, toaster or coffee machine too. If you’re in need of an upgrade, NEFF’s range of ovens with a stainless steel finish are the perfect addition. Don’t be afraid to bring in new elements, just make sure they fit with the overall look and feel of your space. 

3. Be smart with appliances 

Minimalism can also extend to your choice of appliances – and in today’s day and age, there’s lots of functional yet design-conscious ones to choose from.  

For example, hybrid, smart and streamlined appliances typically take up less space than traditional items. NEFF’s induction cooktop fits easily onto a bench or island bench and comes with easy-to-use functions like TwistPadFire®. Meanwhile compact appliances like our oven with microwave function mean there’s less in your kitchen for the eye to see.   

Integrated appliances, like NEFF’s fully integrated dishwasher, are another way to include functionality without detracting from the aesthetic of your kitchen. It also has the benefit of NEFF Home Connect, which allows you to switch your appliances on or off, and control them, with the touch of a button or use them with other devices, like smart speakers.  

Maximalist style for your kitchen 

What is maximalism? 

In contrast, ‘maximalism’ means the more the better. From bold colours to eclectic furniture, patterns and paintings – maximalism is brings together everything you love, in one space. The style is said to have originated in the Victorian era, when busy fabrics and colours were popular. 

How do I create a maximalist kitchen? 

Maximalist style, while often appearing chaotic, is carefully thought-out – combining lots of different elements to make a character-filed space.  

But it can be hard to perfect. Here’s some guardrails to keep you on track:  

1. More, more, more! 

Maximalism is a bit of free reign to let your creativity run wild (within reason). So, visualise what you want your space to look like and fill it accordingly. From chairs to table decorations, pictures, paintings, curtains, and cushions – there are lots of ways to show personality through design. The more, the better! 

This also extends to your appliances. If you’re someone who loves entertaining – including two ovens in your kitchen is a great way to add functionality and personality to your space. Do your friends know you as a prolific baker? Great! Put your creations on display with NEFF’s built-in oven with Slide&Hide ® – it’s Choice recommended  (4 years in a row!) and pairs perfectly with the built-in oven with steam function.  

2. Be bold   

Typically, a maximalist-inspired space will unite lots of colour, artwork and personal nick-nacks – such as photos, books and sentimental items. It’s about personalising your space and allowing your style to shine through with things you love. Whether it’s bold colours on your walls, eclectic cabinetry, or mismatched mugs – there’s no right or wrong way to bring maximalism into your home. 

3. Make smart style choices  

It’s amazing how an open shelf here or a piece of antique furniture there can complete your space – the same way too much of something can leave it looking cluttered.  

Whether you’re arranging a display of photographs or hanging your pots and pans from the ceiling, it’s important to think about your design choices and ensure they won’t disrupt your broader aesthetic. If you’re lucky, your kitchen may have existing features, such as exposed brick, weathered cupboards or a rustic sink that you can capitalise on.  

NEFF has a range of graphite grey appliances that can add a little bit of uniqueness (yet functionality) to your kitchen, too. 

Need help choosing the right appliances your kitchen? 

When it comes to the finer details about your kitchen plans or appliances, speaking to an expert can help. Our NEFF team are ready to answer your questions via phone bookings, demonstrations and one-on-one consultations at any of our showrooms. Click here to see some of the NEFF experience options.  

About NEFF   

 NEFF is a German-engineered kitchen appliance brand, with a product range that includes ovens, cooktops, rangehoods, coffee machines and dishwashers designed to make life in the kitchen a daily pleasure. For people who love to cook, NEFF gives you the tools to creative meaningful connections, express your creativity and make memories. Because real life happens in the kitchen.   

Learn more about NEFF  here.