Bohemian decor is inconsiderate of the rules but its warmth and richness just melt your heart and invite you into a world that oozes with personality.
Boho is in trend and no not as a DIY fervor but as a very professional assortment of interior elements. Whether you have traveled the world over or not you can still get this global look right if you follow a few tips. Yes, the style is free-spirited and has no respect for the rules but if you want the jaw-dropping vibe, you need to put in that extra effort.
Personally, I am not a big fan of either maximalism or minimalism, as far as interior styling is concerned. I prefer the middle path. If not done right Boho can infuse a sense of clutter and confusion into a space. It is the right balance that fills your space with this warm and inviting style.
For those of you who don’t know anything about Bohemian decor, I am giving a brief introduction first.
The word Boho comes from Bohemian which refers to the gypsies. They are believed to have originated from Bohemia in central Europe. Gypsies are typical of unconventional, nomadic, and artistic lifestyles. The style belongs to the 1970s.
As the name suggests Boho interior styling is all about being creative in an unconventional way. It is a pure reflection of your personality. Your likes and dislikes in a very bold and pompous manner.
Bohemian decor Style has:
Rich colors and patterns
Since this eclectic style is more of an artistic expression, it is bound to be rich in colors and patterns.
You can mix any kind of pattern especially suzani, ikat, tribal, kilim, Moroccan, Indian, Persian, oriental, animal prints, etc given their bold artistic motifs and forms, in rich jewel tones. Patterns are simply mixed together without matching or coordinating. Idea is to create a global, well-traveled vibe.
You see patterns everywhere – throw pillows, upholstery, rugs, drapes, throws, tiles, etc. You can add contrast with bold geometric patterns.
Classic Boho decor style uses vivid and rich colors like purple and gold, red and green, turquoise, and mustard.
Neutral Boho Chic is a more modernized version of this style. Here, the base is of warm neutrals like cream, beige, vanilla, and other earthen tones. Then you can play with various textures and patterns to add visual interest.
plentiful in textures
Bohemian decor shouts out the textures. It shows off the tactile look through natural rugs, knitted throws, cane accessories, plants, and planters, exposed brick walls, macrame wall hangings, or plant holders, woven pillows, baskets, and anything else that you can think of.
These natural and woven materials and textures like sisal, jute, wicker, burlap, linen, cotton, natural wood, add depth, warmth, and a handmade appeal to the interior spaces. They can be contrasted with leather, velvet, silk, sheepskin, wool, etc. The intention is to enhance the demonstrative appeal of this style.
rugs in layers
Rugs don’t just impart pattern and color but also infuse a space with that much-needed warmth. Textured rugs underneath our feet invite us to step and feel the weave.
Layering rugs with a plain jute rug as a base adds another dimension to the room. The rug on top can be something bold in terms of pattern and color.
casual and relaxed feel
Bohemian decor is all about creating a casual, laid-back space that looks lived in and approachable. A place to hang out and chit-chat with your friends, over a cup of coffee. Informal, cozy, and warm.
Just add elements like low seating, floor pillows, Morrocan leather poufs, ottomans, knitted throws to get the signature free and easy feel in a Boho decor space. Also, paintings and mirrors leaning against the wall, piles of books lying on the floor are just a few ways for a relaxed feel.
An armchair with a footstool, to fill up a corner, next to a window with some books casually lying on the floor…
vintage pieces
The idea here is to use what you have. it could be an inherited furniture piece, something you purchased on one of your vacations, or some flea market purchase. Just refurbish and it is good to go. Mid-century pieces also do very well in this style.
The furniture pieces do not need to match with each other or belong to a specific style. A collected and evolved look rather than a curated one is what defines this style. Whatever gives a sense of belonging and personality is good enough to be incorporated here.
What we want is an easy-going, homey feel. The more worn out and rough the corners are, the better it is. Don’t aim for perfection. Something in a bold vivid color also looks spectacular and quirky. Furniture styles that contrast with each other add the unconventional touch here.
lots of plants
Perhaps the free-flowing organic nature of plants resonates so well with this style. The free-spirited, wild jungle feel gives a sense of adventure to the indoors.
The opposite can also create an environment just as magical. That is taking indoors out. Casual seating with linen curtains, fairy lights, and lanterns set in the outdoor landscape can feel so romantic.
The plants that go well are the ones with bold, sculptural, tropical foliage and form like monstera, cacti, fiddle fig, vines, etc.
Place plants creatively around the space, at various levels to allow the movement of the eyes.
rattan and wicker
Rattan and wicker items remind us of the 1970s. The natural woven forms fill the space with both a casual and natural vibe. And that is why they gel so well with this design style.
This furniture and accessories are very textural and the light natural color works well with the Bohemian decor style. The beautiful patterns create an organic and cozy look.
varied light sources
Lighting is a very important aspect of interior design. If you want to know more about interior lighting, click here.
A boho setup aims for a romantic, warm, cozy ambiance by using different light sources like lamps, fairy lights, woven pendants, Moroccan lanterns, even scented candles.
Wicker pendants are also very popular these days.
artsy touch
After all the style is inspired by the Bohemians therefore art has to speak through each element of the space.
Gallery walls work very well when they have an eclectic composition. Anything that confers a well-traveled feel, with a story to tell, works well here. To learn more on gallery walls, click here.
Even baskets displayed on walls look stunning. The idea is to do something unconventional.
What about a combination of all…..
Funky macrame wall hangings, tassel strings, tapestry on walls, granting a handmade and personal feel, all look at home here.
fragrance
Nothing defines personal more than the fragrances we choose and like. In India camphor is a very popular ingredient and is burnt not only for religious significance but also for its medicinal value.
Whatever you like, go for something natural and subtle rather than artificial cocktails of scents.
We identify ourselves with that peculiar smell of our homes that belongs only to us.
But how to handle a style that is so eclectic and vague in its appearance. Fret not for here are a few guidelines and ideas to consider before you go Boho. Do not forget our intention is to make it look unintentional and evolved space.
- Follow a clear color scheme
- Give eyes place to rest
- Incorporate something unique and quirky
- Mix patterns thoughtfully
- Go neutral boho chic for a calmer look
The style is clearly not for someone who aims for a spotless, manicured type of space. Who likes things to be very formal and organized following rules, matching elements. The design language of this style is straight from the heart and believes not to care what others think or the rules say.
You will love this style if you like casual, laid-back vibes in a space. things are not perfect but they exude a sense of warmth and personality. Ther is an artistic flair that belongs to the owner.
The style reminds me of our mothers knitting crochet table cloths and putting them everywhere. Also money plants in spare glass bottles used to adorn the dining tabletops. Well, what matters is the spirit and a home is a place that must reflect you as a person, whatever the style is.
I hope my post awakens the Boho in you and sets your spirits high!!
Till next time
