All About Bohemian Interior Design
One of the most popular styles that has resurged many times over the years is Bohemian style. Bohemian interior design derives from Bohème culture- which we will touch base on below. The only rule with Bohemian interior design is that there are no rules! There are certain guidelines you can follow to achieve the look, however its all about the individual’s personal style! Confused yet? Don’t fret- we break it all down for you below! Keep reading to learn how to incorporate this style in your own home!
A Brief History of Bohemian Interior Design
The word Bohemian refers to someone who lives in an unconventional life, usually in some sort of artistic manner. “Bohemian” is derived from Bohème- a region of Europe where many Roma gypsies lived. According to Vevano.com, “Bohemian style interior design began in the 19th century in Paris, France. It was inspired by artists, writers, performers, and nomads who believed creativity was more valuable than money — the original bohemians.” Someone who lived a free lifestyle, roaming the world, was bound to collect treasures, souvenirs, colorful objects and fabrics from their travels. The Bohemians made their surroundings as unique as their own travels and life experiences. Eventually, the movement came to the United States and became popular in the 1960’s with “hippie” culture and remained popular for a while. Recently there has been a more modern resurgence of this style as well, mainly in the interior design world.
https://decoroutdoor.com/blog/style-glossary/
You can incorporate the Bohemian look into any interior design style! Read on for tips on how to incorporate Boho into your home, no matter what the style.
How to Incorporate Bohemian Characteristics in Your Own Home
Eclectic Décor: Don’t be afraid to mix and match things that don’t traditionally go together! Different patterns, fabrics, colors, shapes, etc. Consider showing off your worldly souvenirs and mixing them with vintage items.
Colors: The most popular color palettes for boho range from neutral and earthy for a more modern look- all the way to jewel tones, for a more “worldly” look. You can also have the best of both worlds by keeping your main pieces neutral and adding in the pops of color.
Fabrics/Textures: Layer as much as you want! Go crazy with pillows, floor pillows, poufs, and throw blankets in all different textures. Popular textures include cotton, linen, burlap, rafia, etc. For metals/hardware, popular tones include gold, silver, brass, and iron
Nature: Use lots of plants/greenery/flowers. Popular boho plants are monsteras, succulents, ferns, etc.
Lighting: Use different, ambient light sources for a cozy vibe- think lanterns, candles, table lamps, floor lamps, twinkle lights and lots of natural light.
The Types of Bohemian Interior Design
There are so many ways to mix and match other interior design styles with bohemian- it can be incorporated into practically each style if its executed right. Some popular combos of interior design are Modern Boho, Scandi Boho, Japandi Boho, Eclectic Boho etc. Styles like Modern and Scandi Boho are a more modern approach to Bohemian style. In place of bold colors and patterns everywhere you will notice a foundation of more neutral furniture, fabrics, colors, and patterns. You can still add pops of bold color and pattern, but neutral is more prominent.
Modern Boho
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/519110294551130780/?nic_v3=1a5rpuTjq
Scandi Boho
https://velvetkaratzas.com/2019/11/how-to-create-the-perfect-scandi-boho-home-style.html
Japandi Boho is a more zen, calm version of Bohemian style. Like Modern and Scandi Boho- you will see lots of neutral colors. Instead of a focus on a busy, eclectic look, Japandi is super minimal.
Japandi Boho
https://www.overstock.com/Home-Garden/Tapestries/2010/subcat.html?featuredproduct=33128277&featuredoption=61680662&ci_sku=37605221-000-000&cnc=US&cid=322734&type=pla&targetid=&track=pspla&gclid=CjwKCAjwp9qZBhBkEiwAsYFsbw0Kc8qEyqBXNLX5BDuRDU2eQaL9b1gg22PRwbl8uVvhSGzmWDKfGxoCk3MQAvD_BwE
Which brings us to another popular style, Maximalist Bohemian. This can be compared more to the original vibe of Bohemian interior design. It doesn’t really have any rules other than being a personal reflection of the one inhabiting it! Think worldly jewel tones, all different types of fabrics and textures, an eclectic mix of furniture and souvenirs, lots of ambient and natural light, and of course- plants! The exact opposite of minimalism- maximalism believes more is more!
Maximalist Boho
https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/maximalist-bohemian-design-262776
In conclusion, have fun with it! There are countless styles you could incorporate bohemian style into. Happy decorating!