Turning to bohemian-style decor feels very appropriate for 2024. This design style is in line with this year's most popular interior trends, with a focus on creating spaces that are eclectic and unique.
Bohemian interior style isn't new, but it's fair to say it's making somewhat of a comeback, and for good reason: Done well, bohemian decor can be a highly effective way to create a space that feels dynamic, layered, and full of soul.
But what exactly is bohemian style, and how can you create this aesthetic in your own home? We spoke to interior designers to learn the basics of this laid-back interior design style and share some ideas for creating it in your own home. If you love colorful, maximalist spaces, read on.
What is Bohemian Style?
(Image courtesy of Farrow & Ball)
“Bohemian design comes in many forms, from Bohemian Beach to European Bohemian to '70s-inspired Laurel Canyon Bohemian,” explains interior designer Cathy Kuo. “It's a style that's hard to define, but at its core, bohemian design is informal and eclectic, with an emphasis on looseness and storytelling color, art and décor, with plenty of comfort and space for people to gather.”
Bohemian-style decor can be considered the polar opposite of minimalist, modern interior design, focusing instead on cozy, unique décor and layered furniture. “The main feature of this aesthetic is that it's the polar opposite of minimalist, modern decor,” agrees interior designer Jessica Cinnamon Design.
Bohemian-style decor also incorporates natural elements, giving it a rustic, organic feel. Interior designer Betsy Wetnz explains: “The main characteristics of Bohemian design are rooted in natural elements such as texture, and tend to incorporate lots of natural plants and vibrant colours. Try layering decorative elements that contain natural fibres like rope or raffia, and mixing new and vintage pieces.”
Rather than sticking to a very specific color palette, which is essential in other decorating styles, bohemian style welcomes an experimental approach to color and pattern to enhance its core eclectic vibe.
Sasha Bikoff, a designer with the New York Design Center's Access to Design program, adds: “Bohemian interiors are characterized by freedom when it comes to pattern, color, and texture.”
The same approach is reflected in their furniture style: instead of pigeonholing everything into one style, it's about incorporating unique items and objects that tell a story. “The furniture is whimsical, adventurous and global,” Sasha adds.
How to create a bohemian interior
Below, designers suggest five basic principles of bohemian design to follow across all your home decor ideas.
1. Decorate with patterns
(Image courtesy of Betsy Wentz Interior Design; Photo by Nick Sargent)
Decorating with patterns is almost always found in bohemian style interiors. Whether it's wallpaper ideas or accent cushions, patterns create an eclectic base for the rest of the plan.
“Here's my number one tip for creating a bohemian look,” says Christine Carney, design director at Blackberry Farm Design: “Both matching and mismatched patterns, contrasting and complementary colors and textures.”
Whether you're drawn to florals or more modern geometric designs, decorate with the patterns that best suit your interior tastes. “Feel free to mix and match patterns and textures that wouldn't necessarily go together traditionally,” suggests Jessica Cinnamon. “For pillows, you could use a tie-dyed Ikat fabric.”
2. Incorporate natural elements
(Images courtesy of Blackberry Farm Design, David Christensen Photography, Inc.)
Incorporating a touch of the outdoors into your bohemian decor is a key element of mastering the aesthetic, and there are plenty of ways to bring nature into your home, from incorporating natural textures like rattan to adding greenery with houseplants.
“I always incorporate natural elements into my designs, which helps me achieve a bohemian style,” explains designer Dara Segbefia of The Zen Experience. “I love adding natural materials like wood, rattan, and jute, which add an organic, calming element to the space and enhance the laid-back, relaxed vibe. And of course, lots of plants!”
3. Use an earthy yet experimental color palette
(Image courtesy of Betsy Wentz Interior Design; Photo by Nick Sargent)
As mentioned above, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to determining the best colors for a bohemian interior scheme, however, earth tones can provide a good base for your room color ideas, with bolder hues adding interest to the space in the form of accent colors.
“Use dark browns, greens, and grays as your base colors and use deep purples, greens, and oranges in your accessories,” suggests Jessica Cinnamon.
The best wall color is a simple color like white, so you can add some experimental décor or accent colors without it looking out of place.
“White walls act as a perfect backdrop to highlight richer tones and lend a sense of serenity to all the action happening in the space,” Jessica continues.
4. Welcome a variety of furniture combinations
(Images courtesy of Betsy Wentz Interior Design; Photography by Nick Sargent)
Just like decorating with color in a bohemian style, there are no strict rules when it comes to choosing the right furniture for your space. Rather, embrace an eclectic approach by mixing and matching furniture of different styles for added appeal. Decorating with vintage is one of the easiest and most effective ways to do this.
“There's often an emphasis on craft and artisanal products,” adds Sasha Bykoff, “and the best way to achieve this style is to collect products from your travels and design without rules or boundaries.”
When it comes to small décor items, see it as an opportunity to layer in pieces that reflect your personality, whether that be by decorating with art or styling with meaningful objects.
“I love adding a bohemian element to my home by mixing prints, trying unexpected color combinations, and mixing and matching art styles,” adds Cathy Kuo.
5. Layer up in cozy fabrics
(Image courtesy of Soledad Alzaga Interior Design)
To make a bohemian-style room feel warm and inviting, designers recommend generous layers of cozy textiles, which can be achieved with rugs as well as smaller home decor items like accent cushions and throws.
Sarah Henry, creative director of La Manufacture Cogolin, explains the importance of using textiles to add layers to bohemian style: “Fabrics and rugs are essential to create layers, often with fine patterns. A mix of authentic pieces purchased from flea markets and antique dealers, along with souvenirs from your travels, complete the look. Nothing should feel 'new' or 'perfect.'”
Bohemian style is perfect for creating a casual, eclectic feel throughout your home. From decorating with patterns to incorporating natural materials, these decorating ideas will instantly bring out the style's laid-back charm in any room.
