Sylvester Stallone Told His Designer to 'Rococo Me To The Max' in His '90s Living Room – It's a Masterclass in European Glamour
Inspired by Gianni Versace's home, the Sistine Chapel, and The Ritz in Paris, the actor's former Miami home is a gorgeous baroque celebration
The '90s weren't only about minimalism; the period's aesthetic was equally defined by its excesses. To explore, let's take a trip back in time to Sylvester Stallone's maximalist Miami mansion in 1997.
Inspired by Gianni Versace's home, the Sistine Chapel, and The Ritz Carlton hotel in Paris, the actor's living room is a gilded dreamscape. Sylvester collaborated with the Italian designer Massimo Papiri, famously instructing him to 'Rococo me to the max.' Massimo certainly followed through, filling the space with Empire-style antiques, classical bronze sculptures, and bespoke Italian lighting by the artisan G. Moscatelli. Custom-painted allegorical ceiling murals top off the whole look, making viewers feel as if they've stepped into a baroque fantasy.
Though it's unlikely most people will paint a mural inspired by the Sistine Chapel on their ceiling, the revival of '90s trends in interiors means that elements of the Rococo look embodied by Sylvester's living room are coming back into vogue this year. To explore, we've curated an edit of furnishings based on his look, and spoke to a collection of design experts on how they see this look returning for 2026. Even if we emulate the look more subtly, Sylvester Stallone's space is the ultimate blueprint.
Sylvester Stallone's living room in Miami, Florida, 1997
Recreate Sylvester's Look at Home
Think of all the beauty of a patterned sofa with subtler undertones. This sofa boasts the understated 'only-at-Anthro' tiger print, while the woven jacquard upholstery lends your space a one-of-a-kind touch.
A beautiful statue is the most elegant way to add a stately feel to your living room. This bronze sculpture has a beautiful antique patina on a strikingly beautiful shape.
This stunning mirror adds some luxury to any wall, but especially in a rococo style space. The round shape and beveled edges make it a versatile piece that complements a variety of decor styles, whether you're contemporary or classic.
This mid-century French-style chandelier features an antique gold finish, two elegant tiers, and dazzling crystal teardrop accents, making it a true statement piece for any bathroom. The antique gold combined with sparkling crystals creates a timeless atmosphere.
Sylvester's bedroom features a Persian-style rug, and this stunning one from Matthew Williamson's collaboration with Ruggable is ornate and storied. It has the added benefit of being durable and washable. Its orangey red shade feels like a sunset on your floor.
We love this traditional, ornate-style frame, which gives any artwork a vintage feel (and, as Sylvester demonstrates, looks fabulous against a yellow wall). The metallic glint is perfect for elevating a traditional scheme.
The fringed, ruffled drapery is an underrated component of what makes Sylvester Stallone's living room feel so grand, and for 2026, this look is filtering back into our homes. Georgia Metcalfe, Design Expert at French Bedroom, explains: 'Dating back to the 16th Century, ruffles truly flourished during the Rococo period, when fashion embraced femininity, opulence and intricate detailing. Whilst ruffles were not a prominent feature in Rococo style interiors, during this time, the aristocracy, particularly in France, favored lavish ruffled gowns, lace-trimmed sleeves, and decorative flourishes that exuded elegance and refinement. As is often the case, fashion influenced interiors, and ruffled upholstery gained popularity.'
'The current comeback of ruffles in the home is driven by a desire for both nostalgia and modern romanticism,' says Georgia. 'As the popularity of stark minimalism continues to fade, the thrill of a frill aligns with the return of maximalist aesthetics and cosy, romantic interiors that reflect one’s character and personal style.'
Integrating florals and well-crafted furniture is another way that homeowners are capturing the charm of Sylvester Stallone's living room, without the ostentation. Magdalena Gierasinska, Design Expert at Barker and Stonehouse advises: 'To embrace the Rococo Revival trend, choose traditional sofas and armchairs with floral or botanical upholstery as these pieces perfectly capture the movement’s romantic and ornate spirit. Seek out classic shapes with elegant curves and sculpted arms that echo Rococo’s playful silhouettes. Fabrics adorned with intricate floral or botanical patterns bring nature’s delicate beauty indoors. Complement this upholstery with ornate lighting and accessories to pay homage to Rococo style.'
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