The boho style aesthetic for interior decoration has gained immense popularity over the years. Short for ‘bohemian,’ this aesthetic is characterised largely by its vibrancy and unconventionality that is achieved through a process of mix and match. Boho truly reflects the spirit of self-expression to the best of its abilities. In this article, we discuss the main features of boho decor and how you can use this aesthetic to amp up your spaces in a way that suits your tastes the best.
Salient features of boho decor
While boho is all about free spirited self-expression, there are some main features of boho decor that can be sources of inspiration regarding where to start your boho-themed home decor journey from. Here are a few of them:
Eclecticism
The most fun part about a boho-themed decor is that it gives you the freedom to create combinations by mixing and matching various items. You do not have to stick to a fixed aesthetic and can combine several of them together to create the space of your dreams.
Maximalism
When going for boho decor, an overly cluttered space should be the least of your worries. Use colours as bright as you please and put as much stuff as you want, as long as it has some artistic significance and is done with intention.
Colours, textures and patterns
The USP of boho decor is a bright colour palette with rich use of contrast. The mixing and matching can also apply to the textures being used, such as combining macrame with embroidery. The same goes for the use of patterns, from floral to tribal and geometric, the options are endless.
Variety in elements
Boho decor covers in its ambit various styles and elements. Add a dash of natural beauty to your spaces by incorporating house plants and wooden furniture. Handmade items such as pottery and woven rugs also never go out of style. Moreover, you can combine these elements with global statement pieces such as Chinese Fen Shui pieces, Indian textiles and African masks.
Soft lighting
The vibrancy and liveliness of boho decor is best paired with soft lighting. Instead of going with your regular lighting options, you can opt for unconventional ones such as fairy lights, string lights, lanterns, or even scented candles.
See also: Why is cottagecore trend popular?
Where and how to use boho decor for your spaces?
Now that we have a basic idea of what boho decor is, we can go ahead with the creative process of creating a boho-themed space. Here are some ideas as to where and how you can use this aesthetic to maximise its potential.
Living room
To add a boho touch to your living room, you can incorporate a bright-coloured couch paired with assorted cushions of various colours and patterns. Use low centre and side-tables and decorate them with a mix of books, potted plants and other small showpieces. For the walls, you can go for embroidered tapestry pieces or feature a collection of colourful works of abstract art.
Source: Pinterest @lisasnotebook
Bedroom
For your bedroom, we recommend styling the bed with a colourful quilt or sheet sporting elaborate patterns. This is best paired with textured pillowcases in a matching colour scheme. Use light coloured drapes or curtains made of thin material that allows an adequate amount of natural light to stream in. Moreover, you can put up ornate decor pieces on the walls such as mirrors and textile themed picture frames or decorate them using geometric abstract art pieces.
Source: Pinterest @Emmie9012322
Dining room
A rustic hardwood dining table with mismatched chairs, preferably with vibrant cushioning is a must-have for a boho-themed dining room. Similarly, make sure to use colourful spreads and mats for the table. For the lighting, you can use statement lamps such as Moroccan lanterns. You can also have fun with your dinnerware and crockery by matching them with the colour theme of the room.
Source: Pinterest @LEHenrich
Kitchen
You can even give a boho look to your kitchen by incorporating vibrant colours. Line your colourful glass cabinets with vintage cutlery and glassware. Patterned and textured backsplashes go a long way in creating an overall boho look. You can also use textile-themed towels and oven mitts and throw in some herbs and indoor plants.
Source: Pinterest @Heynemo_store
Outdoor spaces
For your outdoor spaces, you can add a dash of colour by throwing in some rugs and cushions here and there. Hammocks and macrame swings are timeless classics that scream boho. Use a lot of plants and natural greens to decorate your space. For a contrast in texture, we recommend furniture made of wicker or bamboo.
Source: Pinterest @Deavita.net
See also: In the lap of nature: A guide to using earth colours for homes
FAQs
What does boho mean?
Boho is short for ‘bohemian’ and is a widely popular home decor aesthetic characterised by its vibrancy and liveliness.
How can I recognise the boho theme?
Eclecticism, maximalism, and the usage of vibrant colours, textures, patterns and other elements are some of the defining features of the boho theme.
How can I give my walls a boho touch?
You can use embroidered tapestries or abstract geometric or tribal art pieces to give your walls a boho touch.
What kind of lighting goes best with a boho setup?
A boho setup is best paired with soft lighting. You can also go for unconventional lighting options such as fairy lights, lanterns or scented candles.
How to create a boho balcony or garden?
You can create a boho outdoor space by incorporating cushions and rugs of different colours and pairing them with bamboo furniture.
What are some classic boho elements I can use for my spaces?
Colourful cushions, house plants, embroidered craftwork and abstract art pieces are some of the evergreen boho theme classics.
Do swings fall under the boho aesthetic?
Yes, you can use a macrame swing or a hammock to give your space a boho touch.
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