The ultimate bohemian style guide

We're sure you've seen boho design before; it's a colorful, patterned, multicultural mash-up of memorable layers and elements that you can't ignore or dismiss because of its uniqueness. Bohemian style or boho décor is for people who want their homes to be full of life, culture, and unusual items for everyone to see. By embracing innovative, freewheeling, and out-of-the-box design, this style opposes current sensibilities.

Bohemian-style rooms have a few things in common: they're always diverse and contain similar features, but no two rooms are ever the same. Bohemian interior design is all about individuality. It is guided by your desire to pursue what you find appealing, warm, and inspiring rather than any set of ideas.

In recent years, the bohemian style has become a global trend. People all around the world are not just wearing boho-style clothing, but also looking for methods to make their homes look bohemian chic. However, before learning how to build stunning bohemian style interiors, you must first understand what the bohemian style is.

Bohemian style has many different dimensions, as well as many different ways to implement it. We've developed a detailed overview of everything you need to know about this design style in response to so many inquiries. Continue reading for a step-by-step tutorial on how to design your boho aesthetic.

What is bohemian style?

Bohemian design, often known as boho, is a style of interior design that emphasizes bright colors, textures, and patterns. In contrast to minimalist Scandinavian or modern design, boho design promotes maximalism and encourages individual expression through multicultural textiles, artworks, and decorative objects.

The bohemian style of interior design is artistic, original, and free-flowing. Bohemian is defined by its lack of structure and is driven by self-expression, making it the ideal interior design style for those who want their homes to seem like an extension of themselves.

To grasp the idea, it is necessary to learn about the roots of the phrase bohemian style. The term comes from “La Boheme”, which means “gypsy” in French. The style is supposed to have originated in Bohemia, a region known for hosting a big gypsy community in the past. The gypsies had their own set of laws that they followed for decades — these guys used to come up with novel solutions to some of the most common challenges people face daily.

However, the phrase is now largely used to describe the bohemian lifestyle that most nineteenth-century artists led. This is most likely owing to the fact that artists, like gypsies, live different lives.

Boho is also influenced by folks who live an alternative life, such as frequent travelers, actors, and writers. The bohemian style expresses this way of life by mixing materials, colors, and patterns from all around the world. If you want a style that you can totally customize, the bohemian design might be the way to go.

This style looks to be as simple as laying down a fuzzy rug, purchasing wicker furniture, and decorating it with an absurd number of throw pillows. This would be a great place to start. It's crucial to understand that bohemian interior design is an untamed style. It suggests you to color outside of the lines. What is odd, colorful, and full of personality is a clear signal that you're well on your way to a boho interior design home.

History of bohemian interior design

The term “bohemian” has evolved since the 1800’s definition of the Romani (gypsy) population of Paris. Nowadays, it denotes a loosely defined approach to interior design that is free-spirited, unusual, and eclectic in nature.

Bohemian interior design debuted in the 19th century in Paris, France. Artists, writers, comedians, and travelers made up the early bohemians, who claimed that creativity was more precious than money. By merging their different cultures, beliefs, and refusal to adapt to what was expected, they accidentally started an interior design trend. The bohemian style, named after those artists, tried to break aesthetic standards by rejecting rules and embracing the odd.

Since regaining popularity in the 1960s and 1970s, bohemian is now often used as an adjective to characterize values espoused by previous generations: carefree, unusual, natural. The design incorporates features like layered textures, antique objects, and natural finishes.

About boho style interiors

The bohemian interiors' mix of textures, colors, and patterns is without a doubt the most striking feature of this style. Interiors decorated in the bohemian style also integrate cultural influences from all over the world. Needless to say, people who prefer everything to be in order should avoid boho décor.

People who want to make a statement with their interiors are generally drawn to boho because of the unexpected, unusual, and vibrant mixes. This is the style to choose if you want your home to reflect your personality. Bohemian design will give your home a vibrant and unique appearance.

Is boho style a good idea?

To begin with, the boho interior design provides a unique atmosphere of tranquility, serenity, and relaxation, which is a delight to receive guests in. Second, this one-of-a-kind design style is one of the most environmentally responsible, there are used materials that are safe for human health. Finally, this is a great opportunity for self-expression – boho style allows you to think out of the box.

Bohemian design colors

The brilliant thing about boho style is that it doesn't need you to follow any rigid guidelines when it comes to arranging your home. Nonetheless, there are a few colors that are widely used.

Metallic tones and warm, earthy colors are preferred by those who love a bohemian flair. Using terra cotta, brown, gold, and other colors from that spectrum is also a marvelous idea. Consider deep browns, greens, and grays as basic colors.

Accessories like art and tapestries look amazing in electric blue, flaming orange, saturated purple, and other jewel tones. Combining varied warm hues in the appropriate proportions is the key to creating the perfect bohemian environment. It's important to remember that white and most other cool hues have no place in bohemian style interiors. White should only be used to add a little visual space to the equation.

Don't be hesitant to combine patterns and textures, as well as styles that wouldn't generally go together. Use bright textiles and designs from all over the world to give your space a sense of joy and mystery.

Neutrals with a lot of contrast

A palette of high-contrast neutrals can be perfect for you if you prefer a more realistic approach to boho design. You still have the saturation's boldness, but in browns and rust tones that feel a bit more approachable. When combined with softer neutrals, this mix offers you a relaxing atmosphere that feels like it belongs at a spa.

Tones of Earth

With its earthy, rustic vibe, an earth tone color palette achieves a similar level of calmness as high-contrast neutrals, but with a touch of extra color. Thanks to the muted character of earth tones and the way they coordinate so nicely with each other, you have the satisfaction of bringing color into your home with ease.

Pinks and Greens

A boho space in a pink and green color palette creates a very tropical vibe! This color combination is youthful and lively, and it works well with cane or rattan furniture and tropical patterns. To add a glam aspect to this color palette, incorporate gold components into your furniture or decor.

Neutrals, Pinks, and Blues

A color combination of pinks, blues, and neutrals is ideal for a more mid-century boho look. It gives any room a modern feel. For a beachy vibe, this color scheme pairs well with lighter-toned woods and natural textures.

Neutrals and Blues

Blues are by far the most popular color group and for good reason. Blues, when coupled with neutrals, are soothing and reassuring. This color combination is equally comfortable in both traditional and bohemian interior designs. It will take you on a beachy, carefree mood when matched with light wood furniture and natural textures.

What are the main characteristics of the bohemian style?

How do you make your bohemian design concepts become reality? Here are some fundamental features of bohemian interior design, as well as decorating suggestions to help you achieve this aesthetic.

Be open-minded

The bohemian philosophy aims to make something comfortable, even welcoming, without going overboard with luxurious components. Of course, you want and should feel comfortable, but keep in mind where the term ‘’bohemian’’ comes from. It was first developed by people who had to travel and needed to create a sense of home with little to no resources. Doing a lot with a little requires a certain amount of inventiveness, which you should strive towards. In other words, be as open-minded as possible when designing your bohemian area.

Layer in textures

The multiple textures of space — especially natural texture — are part of the diverse essence of boho decor. Working with texture in layers gives a space visual depth and approachability. Play with a variety of textures, including smooth and rough, chunky and polished, hard and soft.

Layering patterns is an easy and affordable method to bring bohemian style into your home. It's exciting to mix and match textiles like rugs, cushions, and blankets by mixing different patterns, shapes, and scales. If you want to be consistent, pick a color scheme. This is also true when it comes to art. It's impossible to have too many prints or paintings. A well-balanced wall gallery with a variety of frames, sizes, and mediums complements the boho interior profile.

Mix different materials

You’d probably ask, what's the simplest way to achieve a layered texture mix in your home? The answer is simple: a variety of materials. Using a mix of natural materials such as jute, cane, natural wood, and leather, as well as chunky knits and upholstery, will allow you to create a layered aesthetic in a matter of minutes.

Focus on the patterns

Patterns give a bohemian room life and movement. They're also a fantastic way to incorporate the globally inspired vibe that boho designs are known for.

Popular boho patterns include Ikat, Kilim, Indian, Moroccan, Turkish, Persian, and Mexican.

If you're stuck, start by choosing an overarching color scheme and work within it. A good option is a violet and gold, rust and blue, or red and mandarin, to name a few.

Hunt for antiques and vintage-style gems

If you love antiques or vintage furniture, bohemian is a great style to explore as bohemian designs are focused on creating a unique aesthetic and frequently incorporate pieces that have been collected over time. These one-of-a-kind pieces will infuse your room with a sense of history that only antiques can provide.

Contrasting old and new is an easy approach to enter boho design. Vintage or gently used secondhand items will add a soulful touch to your bohemian room. Each object pops in an unexpected way when placed next to something modern.

Usually, antique, consignment, and vintage stores provide old gems that lend to boho style. You can also hunt for one-of-a-kind goods at garage sales or estate sales. For a classic vintage vibe, add a comfortable daybed or couch, a French-style side table, an antique record player, or an aged mirror.

Keep your layout casual

Asymmetrical and casual are the characteristics of bohemian interiors. It creates a more comfortable atmosphere and fits with the collected nature of this design. More than any other style, bohemian design communicates a story. The bohemian room contains lots of items from all over the world, many of which have a tale to tell about their origins, symbolizing a nomadic lifestyle. The bohemian space's comfortable, cozy, and conversation-starting vibe is enhanced by art, literature, sculptures, pillows, and lamps.

What's the best way to get started? Choose things with a variety of colors and shapes. Bring in sentimental items, homemade goods, and travel souvenirs. There's no need to take it easy here. Fill every nook and cranny of your boho home. Everything doesn't need to match; in fact, everything's best if it doesn't! Experiment with clustering and placement. This is your opportunity to put your life on exhibit, so to speak.

Experiment with a range of different furniture styles

While certain pieces of furniture may scream “bohemian” (for example, a rattan chair swinging from the ceiling), the beauty of boho style is that it allows you to mix and match furniture styles. Furthermore, the pieces you select will influence the overall atmosphere of your area. For a mid-century boho style, you may opt for cleaner-lined furniture. Alternatively, classical elements can be added to pieces to give them an ancient feel.

Embrace the natural and handcrafted

Bohemian style is influenced by artists and emphasizes handcrafted objects, one-of-a-kind creations that express uniqueness. Paintings, sculptures, and wall hangings could all be examples of this. It's a win-win situation because handmade decor supports local artisans and small businesses.

In addition to handmade items, the boho home design style promotes natural features as well. Wood is by far the most significant. Wood, whether in furniture or as accessories, instantly adds warmth and comfort, which are essential in bohemian interiors. Look for braided pendant lamps or rustic wood headboards. Leather poufs, cowhide rugs, and, of course, plants can all be used to add a natural touch.

Don’t forget the plants

Without the presence of plants, the bohemian style falls flat. Botanicals have a critical role to play. They not only bring the outside world inside, which is a major part of boho style, but they also improve air quality and give any room an active feel. Greenery is also uplifting and provides the sense of closeness to nature that a bohemian interior evokes.

Low-maintenance houseplants like snake plants and dracaenas help to filter the air. They come in woven, terra-cotta, and patterned ceramic pots and can be used as a trendy design component. To add aesthetic appeal, use plant stands and create levels. Hanging plants are also a great boho addition to any space, adding intrigue and depth.

Bohemian furniture

In most cases, you won't find bohemian furniture in a regular store. Since these spaces are loaded with furniture that has been accumulated over time, secondhand and vintage things fit right in. Each piece of furniture should have a unique narrative to tell. Have fun touring the old shops in your area and selecting each piece independently!

Plush seats and couches in bright colors will bring to you and your guests a true bohemian feel. Throw rugs or big floor pillows will also help to create a welcoming environment for floor seating. Just keep in mind that smooth or straight-backed furniture will not work in a bohemian environment, since this interior style is inspired by the idea of “sit and stay a while”. Chaise lounges, daybeds, and butterfly chairs are all examples of comfortable and relaxing furniture for a bohemian room.

The size and shape of your furniture aren't important when it comes to designing your room in a boho manner. However, make sure that each piece of furniture you have is original and tells a story. Your goal is to spark people's interest. If you're not sure what kind of furniture to acquire, aim for Victorian-style pieces.

Victorian design is a great inspiration for bohemian style interiors since there is almost nothing that fits the style of modern-day furniture. Some of the things you should look for include sofas and chaises in rich colors, and carved oak frames.

And take into consideration that while bohemian style tends to be eclectic, it can still feel chic and glamorous — don't be afraid to use an extravagant chandelier or a large gold-framed mirror.

Lighting and accessories

Ambient, low-key lighting will harmonize your boho design space and enhance the calm, welcome atmosphere. Decorate with many lanterns, candles, and floor and table lamps instead of overhead illumination. Today's worldwide design markets make it simple to find a wide range of forms and styles — ideal for creating a mixed-and-matched aesthetic.

Eclectic vs Bohemian

No surprises, there are some parallels between bohemian home décor and eclectic interior design, but they are surely not the same thing. Although both share similarities, eclectic is a broader umbrella term. It is a style approach that focuses on the mixing and matching of various styles and design elements. Meanwhile, boho is a style based on the concept of creatively combining décor elements. Obviously, any style can have an eclectic nature. That’s why we prefer to use the term “bohemian” to describe the actual design style!

Different interpretations of bohemian design

There are a variety of methods to incorporate boho design into your house. There are also various levels of intensity, ranging from subtle eclectic design features to a clear boho room with vibrant textures, prints, and materials. So, when it comes to bohemian decor, how would you describe your home design style? Take a look at some of our favorite boho-inspired designs to find out.

Minimalist boho

Contrary to popular assumptions, boho home design can be subtle. Minimalism meets boho with its mix of clean lines, soothing neutral tones, organic textures, and warm woods. This look is ideal for those who prefer a more relaxed bohemian feel without the bright colors.

Rustic boho

This is bohemian design with a modern twist, thanks to its mix of vintage-inspired furniture, cosmopolitan touches, and light rustic features. If your favorite locations to shop are flea markets and vintage shops, and you have a talent for converting a random find into a beautiful one-of-a-kind piece, this is an ideal style for you.

Modern boho

The least formal choice is this laid-back and popular bohemian aesthetic. It's also the simplest to mix and match. For those of you who are drawn to relaxing environments, this is the place to be.

Classic boho

To put it simply, classic boho captures the vision of bohemian elegance. With modern soft furnishings and unique decorations, the classic boho space has an Old-World feel. Perfect for folks who adore antiques and artifacts with interesting backstories, but also appreciate the color and ease that bohemian finishing touches add to a room.

Coastal boho

This laid-back take on bohemian design, known as California casual, emphasizes the breezy and diverse vibe of West Coast seaside residences. What a wonderful combination of color, pattern, and texture! Fans of the boho-chic aesthetic from the coast of California will love this.

Moroccan Boho

If a feature wall in bright colors, colorful lanterns, low tables, and floor cushions isn't something you’re afraid of, Moroccan Boho style is a great option. You can create the sense of a lively Moroccan bazaar by blending rich tones with vibrant patterns. When it comes to Boho interiors, more is more. Multi-tonal ikat-inspired prints complement rather than compete in a kaleidoscope of colors, textures, and patterns. Give your outdoor space a summer bohemian feel!

Boho glam

Boho glam aesthetic is all about making a bold, adventurous statement in a space, loaded with a mix of elegant furnishings, offbeat art and accents, and vivid island colors and patterns. Bohemian glam is perfect for those who want their room to reflect their outgoing personalities, keen sense of style, and eclectic collection of worldly artifacts.

Mid-century boho

With this mid-century bohemian aesthetic, it's all about creating a space that reflects your own personality and taste. Mix and match items from many eras and civilizations to create a unique look that expresses your personality. Perfect for anyone who enjoys a mix of tastefully curated art and decorations with mid-century modern themes. As a result, you'll have an eclectic living space that's both boho chic and designed for comfort.

Tropical boho

Tropical is one of the most traditional boho styles. Boho, also known as Jungalow, is a colorful, maximalist style that is easy to customize. Colors, patterns, textures, and plants are all prominent in this style. However, don't forget to add organic shapes and materials to help balance out the style's bustle and boldness. Plant enthusiasts, independent thinkers, and maximalists who enjoy a bit of glam will love this.

Industrial boho

This elegant version of boho evokes images of a living room in a metropolitan loft or a fancy high-rise condo. This design is defined by unique furniture and powerful lines. If you are an urban resident or a contemporary design enthusiast looking for a bohemian aesthetic with a sophisticated edge, this style is made for you!

Boho removable wallpaper ideas

Nothing does it better than peel and stick boho wallpapers when it comes to expressing your originality. Your walls will be transformed into a creative masterpiece with fun and quirky designs, bold and courageous color combinations, and unexpected patterns. Let’s see some examples!

Nature-inspired wallpapers

Celebrate the beauty of the great outdoors with your boho wallpaper. Choose a scheme that is inspired by nature and will bring a breath of fresh air into your home. This not only creates a joyful yet calm atmosphere in your home but also reflects boho design's love of nature.

Plants are crucial in a space with this kind of interior design, as we previously stated. Why not include wallpaper with figures of plants, trees, and wildlife, in addition to having numerous plants providing those green colors to the space?

Hang a nature-themed wallpaper on the main wall, such as the one behind the sofa, to create a bold accent wall. It will add uniqueness, elegance, and, most importantly, the boho-chic vibe we're after.

Tropical leaf wallpaper is another excellent choice. Because of their lush foliage and simple motifs, combining them with other designs is a breeze. The combination of minimalist furniture, natural textures, and tropical boho wallpaper creates an easygoing beachy vibe.

Birds wallpaper

When combined with trees and flowers, certain bird wallpapers appear to give the space its own life. This might be one of the most significant wallpaper categories to consider if your project is boho, as it fits all of the qualities that this style seeks: mixture, stories, and nature.

Travel inspired boho wallpaper

As we already know, free thinkers and people who reject the standard, such as travelers, are the inspiration for the boho style. Accordingly, the boho style has evolved into a celebration of culture, combining items and ways of life from all around the world.

As a result of this mixing of cultures, we've widely embraced patterns from nations like Damask, Morocco and Turkey. For example, their classic tiles are ideal for creating lovely bohemian kitchens. Place a boho wallpaper with a print of tiles behind your kitchen worktop and allow the rich tones and gorgeous patterns to create a warm atmosphere that oozes cultural style.

Textured wallpaper for a scandi boho vibe

We all know how essential texture is when it comes to creating a boho look, and layering patterns throughout your house is a great way to achieve it. Soft textured rugs, woven rattan furniture, and a range of textile fabrics define the boho aesthetic. But who says texture has to be restricted to the items of furniture you select?

While it's fun to go all out with carpets and pillows, textured walls can help to balance things out. For example, concrete print for a more industrial boho aesthetic, brick print if you like character or wood print for a more Scandi style ambiance. If your bohemian living room is short on floor area, wood-grained removable wallpaper is a great space saver! The boho style is noted for its all-natural look, which is achieved by transferring the texture to the walls.

Boho line art for minimalist interiors

Designing a boho home doesn't have to be difficult; in fact, sometimes the simpler the better! Abstract lines art murals are the ideal choice for a boho minimalist room if you enjoy living in a clean environment. Large-scale line drawings are a simple design option that has a lot of impacts, and they can be styled with almost anything.

Ready to give your space a chic update?

One of the most fascinating aspects of interior design is deciding on a decor style for the various areas in your home. Bohemian style may be the right for you if you desire a look that's full of life, culture, and eclectic goods from all over the world!

You may design a gorgeous boho interior with some imagination and a little treasure hunting. It makes no difference whether you live in a small apartment or a large house. Look for one-of-a-kind pieces with vibrant colors, natural materials, and lots of texture, and mix and match everything to get a relaxed bohemian vibe. Don't be afraid to vary things up in your home by displaying a range of artworks and décors in each space. You'll have the lovely boho home of your dreams with just a few modifications.

Remember that the most important aspect of embracing bohemian design is to keep your positive energy flowing, which is easy to accomplish when you’re surrounding yourself with the things you enjoy.

Now that you know our top bohemian interior design decorating tips and ideas, we hope you’re ready to start on your boho inspired room makeover journey!