18 Inspiring Boho Style Rooms (2024)

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Updated on 04/26/23

Nowadays, in relation to style, "boho" is a term used to define things that are unconventional and artistic; however, it helps tounderstand the roots of bohemian style in order to pull off the look authentically in your home.

18 Inspiring Boho Style Rooms (2)

So what does boho reallymean? Well, first, it's shorthand for the French wordbohémien, referring to Bohemia, a region in present-day Czech Republic. Bohemia was erroneously believed to be the homeland of the Romani people, the largest ethnic minority group in Europe. Originating in India, the Romani largely led ambulant lifestyles and were known for their creativity, many being skilled artists, musicians, and tradespeople.

In 16th century France, the word "bohemian" evolved to include any artist, writer, actor, or musician who led an unconventional lifestyle, traveling quite a bit throughout major European cities with little money. A more recent hotbed for boho culture existed in Greenwich Village in New York City during the 1950s, otherwise known as the beat generation, which eventually gave way to the hippy culture of the 1960s and '70s. While the Romani people who inspired this style have experienced persecution and discrimination for centuries, after being embraced by middle and upper-class White people, boho design came to be mainly viewed as trendy and fashionable.

Today, bohemian is more of an adjective than a noun and indicates an aesthetic that takes its influence from those free spirits of generations past. The modern boho style look is eclectic and emphasizes natural elements and vintage pieces from the 1950s, '60s, and '70s. With such a focus on global influences, boho design can be prone to cultural appropriation. To ensure your space celebrates other cultures respectfully, it is essential to educate yourself about the significance of items you choose to incorporate and pay attention to where products are sourced from. Here are eighteen ways to embrace boho design in your home.

What Is a Boho Style Home?

Boho style home decor combines items that are relaxed, bold, and unconventional. The look typically involves an eclectic mix of natural elements and many colors, patterns, and textures.

  • 01 of 18

    Mix Patterns and Colors With Abandon

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    There is a foolproof formula for mixing and matching throw pillows like a pro; but, when it comes to creating a boho style space, all rules go out the window. Bright colors and lots of patterns such as florals and paisleys mixed with natural prints and geometric patterns are a hallmark of boho style. If brights aren't for you, embrace a subdued mix of shades like olive green, cognac, mustard yellow, and rusty oranges.

    Even in a living room space—like this one by Dazey Den—you can throw amix of pillows and throws on a day bed or simple sofa for a layer of extra comfort, style, and eclectic energy.

  • 02 of 18

    Use Natural and Rustic Finishes

    The hippie influence of the 1960s and '70s on boho design ushered in an infusion of accessories that utilize natural or raw materials such as hemp, sisal, wood, and rattan. Think woven wall decor, macrame plant hangers, a sisal area rug, or a leather accent chair.Although natural textures are key, don't let that stop you from throwing in metallic touches like a floor lamp for a little shine alongside natural elements like this tree trunk coffee table in a living room designed by Arbor & Co.

  • 03 of 18

    Put an Emphasis on Culture

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    Bohemian styles have significant ties to global and cultural aspects, so it's important to know exactly what you're representing when decorating your space. The Instagram page Afro Bohemian Living takes this to heart—the hallmarks of boho style are present, with distinct African culture serving as the center of it all. From the artwork to the woven baskets and decorative items, African presence is featured all throughout her home.

  • 04 of 18

    Add Global Accents

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    Given that boho culture has a history of celebratingwandering artists, home accessories that have a global feel are important in a bohemian style space.Again, this is where being mindful of each piece's cultural significance is essential.

    If you're lucky enough to travel to far-flung locales, look for beautiful souvenirs that can help you achieve a natural-eclectic feel in your home with authentic pieces; but, if you don't have that luxury, shop thrift stores, flea markets, or use apps like Nextdoor and Mercari to find global accents that are budget-friendly and closer to home. Whenever possible, try to source items directly from the cultures they originate from.Then again, you can also decorate with a vintage globe, a quirky and charming travel-centric addition.

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  • 05 of 18

    Go Casual

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    It's very important to keep in mind that when it comes to this style, keep it casual. Boho-style spaces are not fussy. Think floor pillows and poufs, piles of pillows or a comfy area rug, and spaces that encourage conversation, reading, and listening to music or playing games rather than watching TV or hosting formal dinner parties.

  • 06 of 18

    Try Thrifted Pieces

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    While thrifting for that perfect find may require some serious effort, you would be surprised at how many potential boho accents you can acquire on a budget—especially when it comes to textured pieces like wicker. Emma Wilson of Wilson Aesthetics snagged this gorgeous wicker shelf on Facebook Marketplace, which serves as the perfect place to display her curated decor collection.

  • 07 of 18

    Layer Plenty of Textures

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    Layering textures in your space can help create a boho-chic atmosphere. Try layering boho-style bedding in a mix of textures, colors, and/or patterns, or add a chunky knit throw on your bed to add dimension to a more minimalist room.

  • 08 of 18

    Mix Styles

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    Like any eclectic, interesting home space, boho-style rooms make creative use of interesting and unique pieces. But rather than sticking solely with one particular style, this concept focuses more on midcentury modern accessories as well as anything reminiscent of the free spirit hippy culture of the 1960s and '70s. For example, a mid-century hairpin leg desk mixed with a geometric print rug and a sleek white bookshelf with plants galore will achieve the look flawlessly.

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  • 09 of 18

    Be Artistic in Your Design

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    No bohemian-style space would be complete without a curated, creative mix of art and books. In fact, beatniks of bygone eras likely owned way more books than they did clothing, furniture, or other material possessions.

    If this decorating style appeals to you, you probably already value the arts, so you're well on your way. A goal of creating a boho style space gives you a license to pile art books on the coffee table, frame album covers as wall art, or hang an eclectic collection of art prints on a gallery wall that stretches floor to ceiling. The results are often dazzling, such as in this example of organized chaos of this blue living room designed by Dazey Den.

  • 10 of 18

    Try Neutrals With Boho Flair

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    Neutrals work as a foundation for many different styles, and boho is no exception. If you aren't as wild about going colorful or overly eclectic, then focus more on working with your neutral color scheme and adding some boho accents here and there. This living room includes a curated gallery wall with various art prints, keeping things cohesive while still staying true to the slightly chaotic aspect boho brings to mind. The layering of a print rug over a solid white one, and of course, the leather and wicker decor accents add to the overall theme.

  • 11 of 18

    Add a Touch Of Whimsy

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    Boho style is meant to be playful, so try to have fun with it. This apartment by Alvin Wayne has its share of plants, muted tones, and a calming presence—yet the geometric tapestry on the wall boasting bright, abstract hues adds a whimsical touch to the room without overpowering it.

  • 12 of 18

    Pair Earthy Textures With Glamorous Ones

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    One lovely thing about this style is you do not have to choose between something glamorous vs. something down to earth. Often, the two work together perfectly. This living room by Blue Copper Design shows how it's done—opting for leather and wood accents in lightened tones to work with the airy, chic white walls and floor-to-ceiling curtains. No matter where you look, it feels comforting and inviting.

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  • 13 of 18

    Add All the Plants

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    When working with a bohemian style, you can never have too many plants. They serve as the perfect functional decor choice and add life to any room in your home. This living room from Leaf and Lolo is covered with different plants in various shapes, sizes, and styles. The macrame wall hanging and the wicker baskets only add to the boho vibe.

  • 14 of 18

    Give it a Personal Touch

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    Ultimately, boho style isn't about creating something "perfect"—it has to do with making the space feel like your own. Adding personal touches can tie things together. This cozy corner designed by Home and Spirit not only includes a string of pothos plants, but a skinny wooden plant serves as a vertical shelf and a painted mural to liven things up next to the white macrame hammock chair.

  • 15 of 18

    Keep It Simple

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    You don't have to go all out to create a boho-centered room (unless you want to!). Keeping things simple can sometimes be the key—like this bedroom by Arbor & Co. A black and white color palette, a simple tapestry, and an oversize rug make up most of the decor here—yet it works so effortlessly.

  • 16 of 18

    Add a Gallery Wall

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    Gallery walls truly can take a boho-decorated room to the next level. The key is to work not only with photos or art prints but also with objects. There are really no rules—and definitely no rhyme or reason—to how your art collections and objects should be arranged, and we encourage a whimsical approach wherever possible. This gorgeous example from House of Chais truly brings the wall to life.

    Continue to 17 of 18 below.

  • 17 of 18

    Bring Scandinavian and Boho Vibes Together

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    Boho and Scandinavian styles are often linked hand in hand with each other, though there are a few differences. Scandinavian styles focus more on simplicity, minimalism, and functionality, whereas boho tends to be more free-spirited and imperfect in its approach. However, the two styles can work together well, especially in bedrooms. The neutral color scheme and minimal decor are paired with whimsical wicker baskets, textured throws, and plenty of comforting attributes.

  • 18 of 18

    Add a Statement Piece

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    Bohemian styles do not necessarily need a centerpiece to work, but statement pieces can absolutely contribute to the room's overall feel. This bedroom by K Shan Design has plenty of notable accents, but the wicker flower-shaped headboard truly catches your attention the moment you see it. The unusual shape and natural textures truly scream boho chic.

What are the types of boho decor?

Bohemian style was originally characterized by its colorful and maximalist embrace of the eclectic and the eccentric. Modern boho-style interiors are often mixed with midcentury modern, Moroccan, or Scandinavian influences, or interpreted with a minimalist touch using neutral palettes and choice accessories.

What are the main boho design colors?

There is no defining color palette for bohemian style interiors, which can range from earth colors to jewel tones to more modern neutral palettes. Feel free to mix and match colors, patterns, and textures to create your own interpretation of boho style.

What is the opposite of boho style?

The opposite of boho style is traditional style. Whereas boho style is free-spirited, eclectic, personal, and rule-breaking, traditional style is based largely on 18th- and 19th-century European styles and conventional notions of what a home looks like.While boho style has long been characterized by a maximalist bent, today's boho-style interiors range from a layered, collected aesthetic to boho chic spaces that are neutral-toned and minimalist.

As a seasoned expert and enthusiast in the realm of home design and decorating, particularly focusing on various design styles including bohemian (boho) style, I'd like to share my insights and knowledge on the concepts discussed in the article you provided.

Credentials: With a robust background in lifestyle writing spanning over two years, I've delved into topics ranging from home decor to accessories and DIY projects. My work has earned recognition, having been featured in renowned publications such as Better Homes & Gardens. Additionally, I maintain a blog dedicated to home accessories, contributing to the dissemination of valuable insights within the design community.

Insights on Boho Style: The article elucidates the roots of bohemian style, tracing its origin to the French word "bohémien," associated with Bohemia in the Czech Republic. It highlights the historical evolution of the term, initially linked to the Romani people in 16th century France and later flourishing in cultural hubs like Greenwich Village during the beat generation and the hippy culture of the 1960s and '70s.

Key Concepts:

  1. Boho Style Home Definition: The essence of a boho style home lies in its combination of relaxed, bold, and unconventional elements. It embraces an eclectic mix of natural materials, vibrant colors, patterns, and textures.

  2. Mixing Patterns and Colors: Boho style encourages fearless mixing of patterns and colors. The article emphasizes the abandonment of conventional rules, allowing for a diverse blend of florals, paisleys, natural prints, and geometric patterns.

  3. Natural and Rustic Finishes: The hippie influence of the 1960s and '70s on boho design is reflected in the use of natural and raw materials such as hemp, sisal, wood, and rattan. This includes woven wall decor, macrame plant hangers, and leather accents.

  4. Cultural Emphasis: Bohemian style is deeply connected to global and cultural aspects. The incorporation of elements reflecting distinct cultures, as seen in Afro Bohemian Living, adds authenticity to the boho aesthetic.

  5. Global Accents: Given boho culture's celebration of wandering artists, the inclusion of home accessories with a global feel is crucial. Mindfulness about cultural significance and ethical sourcing is emphasized.

  6. Casual Atmosphere: Boho-style spaces are characterized by their casual, unpretentious nature. The use of floor pillows, poufs, and comfortable areas for activities like reading and listening to music is encouraged.

  7. Thrifting and Layering Textures: Thrifted pieces, especially textured ones like wicker, contribute to the boho look. Layering textures, including bedding and throws, adds depth and richness to the space.

  8. Artistic Expression: Boho style embraces artistic expression through a curated mix of art and books. The focus is on creating an organized chaos that reflects the free-spirited nature of the style.

  9. Neutrals with Boho Flair: While boho style is often associated with vibrant colors, neutrals can also serve as a foundation. A curated gallery wall with various art prints can maintain cohesion in a neutral color scheme.

  10. Whimsical Touch and Earthy-Glamorous Blend: Boho style encourages a playful approach, allowing for whimsical touches like geometric tapestries. The combination of earthy textures with glamorous elements, as seen in leather and wood accents, creates a comforting and inviting atmosphere.

  11. Abundance of Plants: Plants are a staple in bohemian style, adding life to any room. The article recommends incorporating various plants in different shapes and sizes.

  12. Personalization and Simplicity: Adding personal touches and keeping things simple contribute to the boho style. Personalized elements, such as a string of pothos plants or a painted mural, make the space unique.

  13. Gallery Walls and Statement Pieces: Gallery walls, incorporating photos, art prints, and objects, are a key element in boho-decorated rooms. Statement pieces, such as a wicker flower-shaped headboard, can enhance the overall boho chic feel.

Additional Insights: The article also addresses common questions related to boho decor:

  • Types of Boho Decor: Bohemian style can be characterized by its colorful and maximalist embrace of the eclectic and eccentric. Modern interpretations may incorporate midcentury modern, Moroccan, or Scandinavian influences, or be interpreted with a minimalist touch using neutral palettes and choice accessories.

  • Main Boho Design Colors: There is no defining color palette for bohemian style interiors. Colors can range from earth tones to jewel tones, and modern interpretations may include neutral palettes. The key is to mix and match colors, patterns, and textures freely.

  • Opposite of Boho Style: The opposite of boho style is considered to be traditional style. While boho style is free-spirited, eclectic, and rule-breaking, traditional style is rooted in 18th- and 19th-century European styles, adhering to conventional notions of home aesthetics.

In conclusion, the article provides a comprehensive guide to embracing boho design in your home, emphasizing the rich history, cultural influences, and diverse elements that contribute to the eclectic and free-spirited nature of bohemian style.

18 Inspiring Boho Style Rooms (2024)
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