Cluttercore is the new design trend designers want you to try

Chances are you’re familiar with the cluttercore design style, even if you don’t know the name. Here, we’ll break down the ins and outs of cluttercore, how you can achieve the look in your home, and the specific design tips you’ll want to follow when decorating your space.

What is Cluttercore?

Cluttercore has been gaining popularity over the past few years. The design trend is “all about celebrating organized chaos,” says Melanie Summers, a professional organizer and owner of I Speak Organized. “Unlike minimalist trends, cluttercore celebrates the things you love and gives them a place of honor.”

As such, cluttercore-style spaces are cozy, colorful, and welcoming. They’re perfect for collectors who can’t imagine keeping any of their treasures behind closed doors and are eager to display everything from books to artwork to jewelry.

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Key Features of Cluttercore

There are eight main characteristics of cluttercore.

Personal belongings

Unlike a monotonous room filled with items purchased from one or two retailers, cluttercore spaces are personal and reflect a lot about their owners. That means displaying sentimental items, Summers says.

Maximalism

Cluttercore and maximalism go hand in hand. As Summers says, a key component of cluttercore is “taking a ‘more is more’ approach”—now is not the time to hold back and limit yourself to what’s on display.

The wall has been filled

You won’t find blank white walls in a cluttercore space. Instead, cluttercore enthusiasts like to fill their wall space to the brim. Keep in mind that you don’t have to stick to traditional artwork here—hang pots and pans on the kitchen wall, display team flags in the basement, or show off some beautiful scarves and textiles, just to name a few examples.

Colourful

The more color in a cluttercore space, the better. These happy homes are filled with a vibrant array of hues. Don’t worry about sticking to one or two specific hues; embrace the whole rainbow if you want.

The Odd Elements

The more quirky the items, the better. Cluttercore spaces eschew the conventional and instead celebrate quirky elements, whether it’s witty patterns or silly decorative items.

Natural touch

Many cluttered spaces have plants or flowers of all kinds. Of course, green friends and fresh flowers are also another simple way to add a little color to your home.

Comfortable seats

Cluttercore spaces are designed to be cozy, not formal, so bring in beanbags, throw pillows, and soft blankets—your guests will thank you for considering these touches.

Feeling relaxed

Cluttercore spaces are never too precious—you shouldn’t be afraid to enjoy food or drinks in the living room or worry about having to plop down on the sofa. Formal and stuffy are two words that definitely don’t apply to this aesthetic!.

4 Tips for Decorating with Cluttercore

Keep these tips in mind to decorate cluttercore like a pro.

Be honest with yourself

When adopting the cluttercore design trend, don’t just fill your home with anything and everything.

“I think the most important thing is to highlight items that have meaning to you or that truly represent who you are,” says interior design content creator Samantha Klein.

Klein recommends displaying anything from seashells to books, dolls and more.

“As with any design motif, focus on the pieces you want to see and feel reflected back at you!”

Let go of perfection

Summers says don’t worry about your messy space always being perfect.

“Embrace the unique and imperfect arrangements that give your space character,” she says.

Create a Focal Point

Summers recommends creating a focal point in the room, options she shares include bookshelves or a gallery wall. This will give your eye somewhere to go when entering your space.

Mix and match

Cluttercore isn’t about creating a uniform style; instead, have fun with mixing patterns, textures, and more in your space, Summers encourages.