Bohemian Style Decorating Tips and Tricks

Bohemian style decorating is a creative and expressive approach to interior design. It blends colors, patterns, and textures to create a unique, eclectic look. This article provides practical tips and tricks for anyone looking to infuse their home with the Bohemian spirit.

Understanding Bohemian Style

Bohemian decorating, often known as ‘Boho’ style, is more than just an aesthetic; it’s a philosophy. Born from the Bohemian lifestyle of the 19th century, this style encapsulates the free-spirited, artistic nature of those who live unconventionally. Bohemian style decorating is characterized by lacking structure, embracing whimsy, and a carefree approach to life and art.

Key Characteristics of Bohemian Style Decorating

Bohemian decorating is distinguished by several key characteristics that set it apart from other design styles. These elements work together to create an eclectic and harmonious space.

• Eclectic Mix of Patterns and Colors: Bohemian decorating is renowned for its vibrant and varied colors and patterns. It’s common to see a mix of rich, saturated colors alongside more muted tones. Patterns range from ethnic and floral prints to geometric designs, often layered in a way that seems haphazard but is harmonious.
• Layering and Textures: Textural depth is crucial in Bohemian style decorating. This can be achieved using textiles like rugs, throws, cushions, and tapestries. These elements add warmth and comfort to the space.
• Global Influences: Bohemian style decorating often incorporates elements from various cultures worldwide. This includes tribal prints, Moroccan lanterns, Indian tapestries, and African-inspired artwork, creating a global, well-traveled look.
• Vintage and Handmade Items: Bohemian decorating embraces the old and the new. Vintage furniture and accessories, often found at flea markets or thrift stores, are popular. Handmade or artisanal items that tell a story are also a staple in a Bohemian home.
• Nature and Greenery: Incorporating plants and natural elements is a key aspect of Bohemian style decorating. Plants bring life and color into the space and have a calming effect, enhancing the overall boho vibe.
• Artistic and Personal Expression: At its core, Bohemian style decorating is about expressing individuality. It’s about filling your home with items that have meaning to you, creating a space that reflects your personality and experiences.

Creating a Bohemian Style Space

To create a Bohemian style space, start by considering the layout of your room. Bohemian style decorating often features low-level seating like floor cushions, poufs, and low sofas, creating a relaxed and informal atmosphere. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different furniture styles – Bohemian style is all about eclecticism.

When it comes to color, choose a few base colors to create a cohesive look, then layer with various other tones and patterns. Incorporating different fabrics and textures will add depth to the space. Think velvet cushions, silk curtains, and wool rugs.

Art and decor play a big role in Bohemian style decorating. Hang artwork that speaks to you, add shelves with curiosities and books, and scatter candles or lanterns for a cozy ambiance. Remember, Bohemian style is not about perfection but creating a space that feels lived-in and loved.

Bohemian decorating is about more than aesthetics; it reflects a lifestyle. It’s about creating a home that is as unique as you are, filled with memories, experiences, and items that tell your story. With its mix of colors, patterns, and textures, Bohemian style decorating offers a warm, inviting, and highly personal space where you can truly feel at home.

Color Palette Choices

Selecting a color palette is a foundational step in Bohemian style decorating. The right colors can set the tone for the entire space, reflecting both the eclectic nature of Bohemian decor and your taste.

Starting with a Base Color

• Neutral Foundations: While Bohemian style is known for its vibrant hues, beginning with a neutral base can provide a canvas for your creative expression. Soft whites, beiges, and grays are excellent choices. They create a calming backdrop for the more vibrant colors and patterns that define Bohemian style decorating.
• Earthy Tones: Another approach is to choose earthy tones like terracotta, olive green, or deep brown. These colors mirror the natural elements often found in Bohemian decor and can add warmth and depth to your space.

Incorporating Vibrant Accents

• Jewel Tones: To bring the Bohemian style to life, integrate jewel tones such as deep purples, rich reds, or bold blues. These colors can be used in decorative elements like cushions, throws, and rugs.
• Metallic and Shimmering Accents: Gold, silver, and bronze elements can add a touch of luxury and glamour to your Bohemian space. Use them sparingly to create focal points or to add a bit of sparkle.
• Contrasting Colors: Don’t be afraid to mix contrasting colors. Bohemian style decorating thrives on the unexpected harmony found in the combination of diverse hues. For example, pairing a vibrant orange with a deep blue can create a striking, lively, and visually appealing contrast.

Balancing Your Palette

• Harmony in Variety: Balance is key to a successful Bohemian color palette. While it’s tempting to use every color you love, ensuring they complement each other is important. Try to stick to a general color scheme to avoid a chaotic look.
• Textures and Patterns: Remember that color isn’t just about paint or fabric hues; it’s also about the textures and patterns you choose. Combining textures in similar color tones can add visual interest without overwhelming the space.
• Natural Elements: Incorporate natural elements like wood, bamboo, or rattan. These materials often come in unique shades and can help balance out the more vibrant colors in your palette.

Choosing a color palette for Bohemian style decorating is exciting, allowing personal expression and creativity. You can create an eclectic and harmonious space by starting with a base color and adding vibrant accents. Remember to balance your colors with textures and patterns, and don’t forget to include natural elements for a grounded, Bohemian feel.

Mixing Patterns and Textures

Bohemian style decorating is synonymous with an eclectic mix of patterns and textures. This mix-and-match approach is what gives Bohemian spaces their unique and vibrant character. Here’s how to master this aspect of Bohemian style decorating.

Balancing Bold Prints

• Start with a Statement Piece: Choose a bold pattern you love. This could be a colorful rug, an intricate tapestry, or a set of patterned curtains. This piece will serve as a focal point and guide for the rest of your pattern choices.
• Complementary Patterns: Once you have your statement piece, look for other patterns that complement it. These don’t have to match perfectly but should share a common color or design element. For example, if your statement piece is a floral print, you might add geometric patterns with similar colors.
• Scale and Size: Mix patterns of different scales to create depth. Pairing a large print with a smaller, subtler pattern can prevent the designs from competing.

Layering Different Textures

• Variety of Textiles: Bohemian style decorating thrives on the use of different textiles. Combine smooth and rough textures, like pairing a silky throw with a chunky knit blanket. This contrast adds interest and coziness to the space.
• Natural and Organic Fabrics: Incorporate natural fabrics like cotton, linen, and wool. These materials add texture and an earthy and grounded feel to the room, essential in Bohemian decor.
• Rugs and Throws: Rugs and throws are an easy way to add pattern and texture. Layer rugs on top of each other for a playful and cozy look, and drape throws over furniture to add warmth and color.

Creating Harmony

• Color as a Unifying Element: Use color to create a cohesive look. A consistent color scheme can tie everything together even if your patterns and textures vary.
• Spread Patterns and Textures Evenly: Distribute patterns and textures throughout the space rather than clustering them in one area. This helps to balance the room and keep the eye moving.
• Edit and Curate: Bohemian style is not about clutter. Be selective with your pieces, and don’t be afraid to edit. The goal is to create a rich, layered look that feels intentional, not overwhelming.

Mixing patterns and textures is a hallmark of Bohemian style decorating. You can create a dynamic and inviting space by starting with a statement piece, combining complementary patterns, and layering different textures. 

Use color as a unifying element and distribute patterns and textures evenly throughout the room. With these tips, you’ll be able to master the art of mixing patterns and textures in your Bohemian-style home.

Furniture Selection

Choosing furniture is a crucial part of Bohemian style decorating. The right pieces can enhance the eclectic, free-spirited vibe of the space. Here’s how to select furniture that complements the Bohemian aesthetic.

Choosing Vintage and Eclectic Pieces

• Mix and Match: Bohemian style is all about an eclectic mix. Combine different styles and periods. For instance, a vintage Victorian chair can pair beautifully with a modern, minimalist sofa. The key is creating a curated look that feels collected and cohesive.
• Vintage Finds: Bohemian decor often includes vintage or antique items. These pieces add character and a sense of history to your space. Look for unique items at thrift stores, flea markets, or online marketplaces.
• Upcycled and Reclaimed Furniture: Embracing upcycled or reclaimed furniture is eco-friendly and adds a unique, personal touch to Bohemian style decorating. An old trunk can become a coffee table, or a reclaimed door can be transformed into a headboard.

Arranging Furniture for a Cozy Feel

• Low-Level Seating: Bohemian style rooms often feature low-level seating like floor cushions, ottomans, or low sofas. This creates a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere conducive to lounging and socializing.
• Create Nooks and Corners: Arrange furniture for cozy nooks or conversation areas. Use bookshelves, screens, or plants to divide larger spaces into more intimate zones.
• Functional Yet Stylish: Choose furniture that is aesthetically pleasing and functional. Storage ottomans, shelving units, and multipurpose tables are excellent choices for a Bohemian space, combining practicality with style.

Personalizing Your Space

• Bold and Artistic Pieces: Don’t be afraid to choose bold furniture that makes a statement. A brightly colored armchair or an intricately carved wooden table can be a focal point in a Bohemian room.
• Textures and Materials: Incorporate a variety of textures and materials in your furniture. Woven materials, leather, wood, and metal can all coexist in a Bohemian space, adding depth and interest.
• Comfort is Key: Bohemian style is as much about comfort as it is about style. Choose furniture that invites relaxation, like plush sofas, cozy armchairs, and soft footstools.

Furniture selection in Bohemian style decorating is an exciting opportunity to express your individuality and creativity. By mixing and matching different styles, embracing vintage and upcycled pieces, and focusing on comfort, you can create a Bohemian space that is both stylish and inviting. Remember, the goal is to create a space that reflects your personality and offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Accessorizing with Art and Decor

Accessorizing is a vital aspect of Bohemian style decorating. Art and decor are not just embellishments but expressions of your personality and the stories you want to tell. Here’s how to accessorize your space in true Bohemian fashion.

Incorporating Global Influences

• Cultural Artifacts: Bohemian style is well-known for its global influences. Incorporate art and decor items worldwide, like African masks, Turkish kilims, or Indian tapestries. These pieces add a worldly touch and create a travel and eclectic space.
• Handcrafted Items: Look for handcrafted items that add an artisanal quality to your space. Handmade pottery, woven baskets, and macramé wall hangings are popular in Bohemian decor, each bringing unique texture and story.

Using Art and Handmade Items

• Wall Art: Fill your walls with art that resonates with you. This can range from framed paintings to fabric wall hangings. Group smaller pieces together to create a gallery wall that showcases your taste and experiences.
• DIY Projects: Bohemian style embraces the DIY spirit. Create your art pieces or repurpose old items into something new. This not only adds a personal touch but also ensures your decor is unique to your home.
• Layering and Grouping: Consider layers and groupings when displaying your art and decor. Cluster similar items together, like a group of candles or a collection of vases, to create a cohesive look.

Personalizing Your Space

• Photographs and Memories: Include personal items like photographs or souvenirs from your travels. These items tell your story and make the space uniquely yours.
• Books and Plants: Books and plants are quintessential Bohemian decor items. They add life and character to any room. Use books as decor items, stacking them on tables or arranging them on shelves. Plants can be hung, placed in corners, or used as tabletop decor.
• Textiles as Decor: Utilize textiles like rugs, throws, and pillows to add color and texture. These can be layered on furniture, hung on walls, or used as floor coverings. You can find ones focused on the Boho style, like these Mandala Compass Decorative Pillows.

Creating a Bohemian Ambiance

• Lighting: Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the Bohemian ambiance. Use soft, ambient lighting with lamps and candles to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
• Natural Elements: Incorporate natural elements like wood, stone, and plants. These elements bring a sense of calm and grounding to your Bohemian space.
• Fragrance: Consider the sensory experience of your space. Use incense, scented candles, or essential oil diffusers to add a pleasant fragrance that complements the Bohemian vibe.

Accessorizing in Bohemian style decorating is more than just filling space; it’s about creating an environment that reflects your personality and experiences. 

By incorporating global influences, using art and handmade items, and personalizing your space, you can create a Bohemian haven that is both visually appealing and emotionally resonant. Remember, Bohemian style is not just a look; it’s a reflection of a life well-lived and loved.

Lighting and Ambiance

Lighting and ambiance are crucial in creating the right mood in Bohemian decorating. The right lighting illuminates the space and enhances its eclectic and cozy vibe. Here’s how to achieve the perfect Bohemian ambiance through lighting.

Selecting Ambient Lighting

• Soft and Warm Lights: Choose lighting that emits a soft, warm glow. This can be achieved using table lamps, floor lamps, or dimmable overhead lights. The goal is to create a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
• Unique Light Fixtures: Look for unique light fixtures that add character to your space. Moroccan lanterns, beaded chandeliers, or vintage lampshades are great choices for Bohemian decor. These pieces not only provide light but also serve as decorative elements.
• Layered Lighting: Implement layered lighting using multiple light sources at different heights and intensities. This can include a combination of ceiling lights, table lamps, and floor lamps. Layered lighting allows you to adjust the ambiance to suit different moods and times of day.

Using Candles and Lanterns

• Candles: Candles are a staple in Bohemian style decorating. They provide a natural and calming light source and can be used to create a sense of intimacy. Place candles in clusters on tables, shelves, or in lanterns to enhance the Bohemian ambiance.
• Lanterns: Lanterns, especially those with intricate designs, can cast beautiful patterns on the walls and ceiling, adding to the room’s visual appeal. They can be hung, placed on the floor, or used as table centerpieces.
• Outdoor Lighting: Continue the Bohemian theme outside if you have an outdoor space. Use string lights, lanterns, or candles to create a magical, boho-inspired garden or patio.

Creating a Cohesive Look

• Consistent Style: While Bohemian style is eclectic, having a consistent style in your lighting choices can help tie the room together. Choose lights that complement each other and the overall decor of the space.
• Reflect Your Personality: Lighting should serve a functional purpose and reflect your personality and style. Choose pieces that you love, and that speak to your sense of aesthetics.
• Natural Elements: Incorporate natural elements in your lighting. Wood, bamboo, or rattan can add texture and warmth to your lighting fixtures, enhancing the Bohemian feel.

In Bohemian style, decorating, lighting, and ambiance are pivotal in creating a welcoming and harmonious space. By selecting the right ambient lighting, using candles and lanterns, and ensuring a cohesive look, you can create a Bohemian atmosphere that is both enchanting and comfortable. Remember, the goal is to create a space to relax, unwind, and feel truly at home.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Bohemian style decorating should be expensive. You can achieve that Boho interior space in many ways while sticking to a budget. Below are several money-saving tips for Bohemian decorating. 

Exploring DIY Projects

Embracing the DIY aspect of Bohemian style decorating is a fantastic way to stay budget-friendly. Creative interior decoration projects save money and add a unique and personal touch to your space. Upcycle old furniture with a fresh coat of paint or new hardware. Create your wall art using fabric, paint, or recycled items. 

Even simple projects like making your pillow covers or refurbishing a lampshade can add much character to your home without breaking the bank.

Finding Thrift Store Gems

Thrift stores, flea markets, and garage sales are treasure troves for Bohemian decorators on a budget. These places often have unique, one-of-a-kind items at a fraction of the cost of new furniture and decor. Look for items that can be used as-is or easily updated to fit your space. Vintage furniture, eclectic frames, and unusual decor pieces can often be found at these outlets, providing an affordable way to add personality and style to your Bohemian home.

Repurposing and Reusing

Bohemian style is all about creativity and maximizing what you have. Repurposing and reusing items not only saves money but is also environmentally friendly. Turn jars into vases or candle holders, use old books as decor items, or transform an old ladder into a unique shelving unit. Look around your home for items that can be given a new life in your Bohemian decor.

Mixing High and Low

Mixing high and low-cost items is key to Bohemian style decorating on a budget. Invest in a few pieces that will last, like a good sofa or a durable rug. Then, fill in with less expensive items like throw pillows, small decor pieces, and artwork. This approach allows you to save money while still creating a stylish and comfortable space. 

FAQ on Bohemian Style Decorating

Conclusion

Bohemian style decorating is more than just an interior design choice; it reflects a lifestyle that values creativity, freedom, and personal expression. This style allows you to blend various colors, patterns, and textures to create a space that is not only visually stimulating but also deeply personal. This interior decoration style offers the flexibility to infuse your space with character and warmth.