Embracing a Free-Spirited Style
Carefree, eclectic and colourful are a few words that aptly describe Bohemian interior design. Often referred to as a “more is more” approach, Boho is a kind of style that’s been around for quite some time now. It’s free-spirited and has absolutely no rules. Do as you wish. It’s synonymous with textures, patterns, motifs and colours. Boho can be maximalist, minimalistic, chic or modern, the choice is yours. As we said, there is no rulebook you have to follow. The key is mixing and matching, layering, and incorporating trinkets from your travel. A lot of people who mimic boho in their space take inspiration from their own personality and the way they dress. They want their home to be a true representation of who they really are. In short, it’s a diverse and inclusive approach.
What is Bohemian Interior Design?
A lot of interior design books describe Bohemian interior design as an “unruly” style. Well, it is. But think of it as a cohesive mess. It’s a style that draws inspiration from various cultures and eras. It’s relaxed, carefree and hippie. Creativity and personal expression take centre stage. Thus, even though you get an interior designer to help you with renovating, you will still need to communicate your ideas and thought-process to them. That’s how they can create a space that truly resonates with who you really are. Boho is linked to artistic expression. It’s all about layering furniture, artworks, textiles and accessories, often sourced from different time periods and regions. If you’ve visited anyone’s home who has a Boho-style, you will notice peculiar artworks, showpieces and more.
History
For the uninitiated, the origin of bohemian interior design started in the 19th century in Paris. The French used the term to describe a nomad, artist, performance or adventurer. The style aimed to challenge aesthetic norms. It went on to become the most popular style of the early twenty-first century. Over time, the definition has been exploited a bit, and people have slightly changed the idea of bohemian interiors. It’s unique, diverse and fuss-free.
5 Tips to Create an Ideal Boho Look for your Residential Interior Design
If you’re someone who wants to turn their home into a free-spirited oasis, follow these tips. Though Boho is a style that is unique to every individual’s personality, these are some generic characteristics:
Start with a vibrant colour scheme
When it comes to bohemian style, there are no fixed colours you should be using. You have the creative freedom to choose what you want. For example, neutrals such as whites and earthy tones work well as much as a variety of deep jewel tones. You can even use bright, pop colours. The choice is yours. However, since bohemian style is an eclectic melange of statement pieces, it’s always better to go with a neutral base or a blank canvas. The true essence of the style will only come out when you white-wash your walls. Neutral tones always create a relaxed, comfortable vibe. Whether your décor items are natural-dyed wall hangings or macrame, a subtle base will make your pieces shine in all their glory.
Mix-and-match diverse textures, textiles and patterns
Boho interior design thrives on mix-and-match. By blending various textiles and textures, you can create something alluring and distinctive. Consider layering silk and velvet textiles in your linen and furnishings. You can even put tapestries and wall hangings of various textures from around the world. Remember to always have a neutral-hued background so that the sheer brilliance of your artworks stands out. While boho is a free-spirited style, it also embraces elaborate patterns and prints. Think geometric patterns, tribal prints, and tapestries. When you travel, buy unique décor pieces, rugs and hangings. Layer up different patterns to create a rich, interesting and cultural visual appeal.
Take inspiration from various cultures
Boho interior design takes inspiration from various cultures and eras. To create a unique space, borrow elements such as motifs, colour patterns, statement pieces and rugs from different cultures and design movements. It’s all about combining vintage, modern, rustic and ethnic pieces together. For example, in a lot of boho homes, you will find Persian rugs blending beautifully with Indian prints such as Ikat and even patterns created by artisans from Jaipur. Adding various elements, pre-used furniture, accessories and keepsakes adds a sense of nostalgia to a space. You can even weave a story around your past travels by placing artwork, pottery and collectables from various cities.
Invest in lounge furniture
Bohemian interiors prioritise comfort. Since it’s a laid-back interior design style, you need to consider investing in oversized sofas, lounge chairs, low-beds and soft furnishings including throws, floor cushions, soft pillows, daybeds and more. Avoid anything that looks royal and uncomfortable. Preferably get furniture made from cane, rattan or any other handmade material. You will probably find boho furniture in old vintage stores. Build a boho look by incorporating pieces you love.
Convert it into a botanical oasis
These days, plants are the life and blood of any and every interior design style. Bohemian style loves botanical plants and lots of them. It’s not just key to the style but also improves the overall air quality and energy in the room. Consider houseplants, hanging plants and natural pampas grass. For planters, don’t go in for the regular pots. Consider fun prints and ceramics. You will find plenty of options online.
Conclusion
Bohemian interior design is vibrant yet free-spirited. If you’re someone who loves incorporating diverse elements in a home, this style is surely for you. It creates a lively aesthetic and gives the inhabitant plenty of room to experiment. If you’re not confident of doing up a bohemian interior yourself, it’s always better to seek help from an experienced interior designer or interior decorator. Since he/she would have completed a BSc in Interior Design course, they will be able to understand what you really want and convert it into a reality.
