These days, there are so many interior styles to choose from, and they’re all so gorgeous. But there’s always one style that’s more multi-layered and unrestrained than all others–bohemian or “boho” as it’s often called. And if you’re having a hard time landing on a singular theme for your home or simply looking for ways to unleash your free spirit in your space, Bohemian might be your style. Read on to learn more about it.
What Is Boho Style Exactly
Understanding how bohemian came to be might help you get the aesthetics' spirit. The term "bohemian" may have originated in the 19th century to describe the unconventional lifestyle of artists, writers, and musicians who rejected societal norms. It may also have been influenced by the original bohemians, often linked to the Romani people, known for their nomadic way of life and deep appreciation for handcrafted items and vibrant colors.
The hippie movement of the 1960s and 1970s further popularized the bohemian style. Focused on themes of peace, love, and freedom, the hippies embraced a laid-back, diverse style that incorporated elements from various cultures.
The evolution of the bohemian style shows that it's fundamentally based on free spirit and creativity. As an aesthetic that's more eclectic than anything, the rules are minimal. Think of bohemian as a vibe rather than a strict design scheme.
But these days, when you search Pinterest or Google, chances are you see a more curated approach to applying the aesthetic. There are always macrame wall hangings like a dream catcher, accent furniture like a peacock chair, and throw pillows with geometric patterns.
While some key elements set the style apart, which are represented by those stereotypical Boho items, you don't need to have these things to make your home Bohemian. Hone into your creative side and put your spin on things. Don't worry – if you need some help to start, here's a little guide with some practical tips:
Vibrant Colors and Patterns
Bohemian interiors thrive on a rich, saturated color palette. Deep reds, emerald greens, electric blues, warm oranges, and earthy tones are welcome. Inspired by the free-spirited essence of the aesthetic, the color combinations are as eclectic as they can go. What's key here is how you combine and layer them, so they are cohesive.
Plain white walls make fresh and clean backdrops for a boho style interior, and it's the trend. But it's not required. You can go darker like deep greens and grays then balance them out with lighter colors in your decor.
Now, on to patterns. What better way to layer colors than through texture and patterns? You can combine floral, geometric, and ethnic designs to add depth and interest to your space. And when it comes to Bohemian style, less isn't exactly more. "More" means having more opportunities to let your creativity shine and display things you like.
To keep your space looking cohesive despite various patterns and textures, it's important to think about balance. You can pair a vibrant, large pattern with more muted geometric patterns or solid-colored items. For instance, a wallpaper with intricate patterns can complement a couch in a neutral tone and textured throw pillows.
Timeless Furniture and Unique Finds
Think of furniture as the base of your home, the things that keep your space functional. In the living room, this is the good ol' couch; in the dining room, it's your trusty dining table; and in the bedroom, the sturdy bed frame.
For your basic furniture, choose pieces that can stand the test of time, both in quality and design. This way, you don't have to change your furniture whenever you feel like restyling the aesthetic of your space.
As an example, in the living room, you have a timeless couch that you can easily pair with a wooden coffee table. To achieve the bohemian vibe, you can go for rattan or wicker armchairs for extra seating, alongside a reclaimed wood side table you found at a flea market. And you can definitely make space for antique pieces you got as an heirloom.
Natural Elements and Handmade Items
In a home with a bohemian design, you can often find decor pieces made of wood, rattan, jute, or bamboo. These natural materials bring a worldly vibe to the space while making it warmer and more authentic.
Handmade items can also enhance the natural element of a bohemian space. Pieces crafted with passion have a personal touch that sets them apart from ordinary mass-produced, store-bought boho decor. You have the option to create some of the pieces yourself or choose to support local artisans and sustainable crafts.
Here's a short checklist of bohemian decor that can be made of natural materials:
- jute or rattan rugs
- bamboo lighting fixtures
- wicker baskets
- wooden bowls and sculptures
- linen curtains
Growing houseplants, of course, is a great way to bring a natural element into your home. Not only do live plants look good aesthetically for a Bohemian-themed home, but they also have a certain level of energy that mere non-living decor simply can’t compete with. Even if you’re short of a green thumb, there are indoor plants that are hardy and require minimal care. Look into those, and who knows, maybe in a year or two, you’ll find that you do have a green thumb after all.
Artwork and Foreign Influences
Artwork and global influences play significant roles in bohemian interiors. Your choice of artwork is an expression of your individuality, allowing you to celebrate your taste, interest, and experience. Meanwhile, displaying mementos from different cultures is a way to connect to different times and places, inspiring you and helping you maintain a sense of adventure.
- Create a gallery wall featuring artwork, from paintings and prints to photographs and textiles.
- Display souvenirs from your travels to create a personal and meaningful space.
- Feature items inspired by other countries such as a Moroccan rug, a shoji or room divider, and framed art of traditional Chinese paintings.
As Bohemian design has undeniably drawn inspiration from various cultures, it's important to navigate styling with sensitivity and mindfulness to avoid cultural appropriation. Take time to learn about the cultural origins of the pieces you want to include in your home. When possible, source your items directly from Indigenous artists and businesses.
***
Bohemian style makes room for creativity outside traditional constraints. Going for this vibe in your home gives you the perfect opportunity to share your unique personality and let your free spirit shine. And it's a wonderful thing to be able to celebrate your travel, passion, and love for all things beautiful in your home. Remember, there are no hard and fast rules in bohemian interiors, so have fun and don't be afraid to experiment.
Related Posts
- A Look at Different Beds Around the World
- Dopamine Decor: A Bright and Joyful Way to Transform Your Space
- How to Choose a Rug for Every Room in Your Home
Featured image by cottonbro studio via Pexels