How to Create a Boho Interior
A melding pot of colour, texture and pattern, Boho style blends influences and elements from different cultures and eras.
Originally referring to travellers from the central-eastern European region of ancient Bohemia, Bohemian style traditionally described people who lived unconventional lives that were richly artistic and nomadic.
This travelling gypsy ideal meant that elements of various styles and cultures were amalgamated into an eclectic and unique style. During the 60s and 70s, Bohemian style enjoyed a renewed popularity, and many of the key features of that era are consistent with today’s Boho-chic style.
The design rules of Boho are that there are no rules. Bohemian design thinks outside the box—it’s random, eclectic, and devoid of structure and order.
Anything you’ve collected throughout your life, display it. It doesn’t matter if it doesn’t ‘match’ anything else you have – it’s not supposed to. Fill your space with a collection of fabrics, patterns, books, art, mirrors, vintage pieces or travel memoirs, and a chic chaos will emerge. wooden furnishings are a must, random and busy surfaces are typical, and humour and kitsch sit comfortably in modern Boho interiors. For all its free-forming and design anarchy, Boho does have some common themes that can be followed to create an effortlessly eclectic bohemian inspired space.
Bohemian decor captures the carefree and adventurous spirit of the avant-garde lifestyle. It features creative application of rich patterns and vibrant colors, especially those with red or purple tones. The key is to carefully present a purposefully “messy” look. Layer on textiles (throws, pillows, rugs, tapestry) for a warm ambience.
Bold Color & Pattern.
The palette leans heavily on earthy tones: think browns and greens, jewel tones, and metallics. Pattern is also key, as many bohemian textiles come from exotic places around the world, like Persian or Southeast Asia rugs.
But bohemian design isn’t just about incorporating these elements—it’s about not being afraid to mix and layer them. Colors and patterns don’t necessarily have to “go” together; what makes it unique is how they are combined and unconventional ways they are used, such as hanging a rug in addition to using one on the floor.
Textiles.
Fabrics and accessories burst in flamboyant tones, prints, and patterns, crochet, macramé,creating a cheerful ambiance of the free-spirited style of life.
Bohemian Furniture Is Usually Vintage.
Bohemian furniture isn’t usually found on a shop. Pieces are collected over time and are usually vintage, secondhand, or bought from local artisans. The best place to go to if you’re furniture shopping for a bohemian home is a vintage shop or of course on Design Addict!
Chairs and couches tend to be plush and comfortable, inviting a sit back and lounge around kind of vibe. You’ll also find daybeds or hanging chairs.
A facet of bohemian design is the juxtaposition between old and new. These vintage, second-hand pieces can be placed next to something totally modern.
More Is More.
Most every space is filled to help create a room that’s saturated in color and pattern, feels cozy and inviting, and contains plenty of items that have some sort of value to you and tell a story. Art, books, sculptures, pillows, lamps…
Natural & Handmade.
Because bohemian design is inspired by artists and it emphasizes the unique, you’ll usually find various handmade items in a boho space. These could be textiles, sculptures, or paintings, each helping to foster individuality.
In addition to the handmade, you’ll also find plenty of natural elements. This comes in the form of fabrics, like burlap and sisal, as well as plants. Filling a room with potted plants, hanging plants, succulents, and ferns help bring the outdoors in and creates a calming aesthetic in your space.