Light fabrics, natural materials, and the omnipresent opulence creating a cohesive whole — these are the characteristics of the boho style, which is gaining more and more popularity year by year. If you also love nature and appreciate harmonious interiors, the boho style might be just the perfect fit for you. Don't wait and continue reading now.
1 - Where does the boho style come from?
Although the first associations with boho style for most people lean towards sunny, tropical islands, it is worth noting from the very beginning that the original boho originates from the Parisian bohemia, which included an artistic community. The 19th century was full of outstanding poets, actors, and musicians who loved to create unconventional combinations, often described as 'incomprehensible.' It is these French individualists known as 'La Boheme' who are the pioneers of the style that inherited the name 'boho' from them.
The bohemian lifestyle of that time was primarily known for avoiding norms (both social and artistic) - this is an element that is still noticeable in interiors designed in the boho style. It should be added that before boho permeated interior design, it was visible in painting, which then shared its discovery with the fashion industry. This style is still not homogeneous (it has many variations and subtypes), but over the years it has evolved multiple times, creating vibrant spaces worthy of master painters.
Another assumption about the genesis of the boho style is its evolution from the old ethno to today's bohemian, or simply boho. In the past, ethno style referred to the broad concept of folklore. In practice, this meant that the term ethno encompassed both exotic variations of folk style derived from a given society's culture and all elements that are geographically closer to us. According to this concept, boho was meant to emerge from this mixture of various (often contradictory) elements and establish itself as a completely new, fully autonomous style.
2 - Features of the boho style
As we mentioned, the original creators of this style did not like to categorize their work or confine themselves to specific frameworks. However, today we can talk about certain characteristics that allow a space to be classified as boho. Below, we will present to you some of the most popular features of the boho style that will help you arrange your dream home or apartment.
Colors
One of the most important elements of Boho style is color. When talking about them, it is worth emphasizing that the most optimal shades will be colors directly associated with nature. However, this does not mean that one should limit oneself to just one base color — on the contrary! Boho-style interiors love light forms and intense colors mixed with muted tones that refer to vegetation, stones, and earth. Among the most frequently mentioned colors that match Boho style are gray, green, yellow, brown, as well as shades of brown and beige. Boho style is primarily about connecting with nature and authenticity. The goal is to ensure balance, a kind of golden mean, which is so hard to achieve in the age of ubiquitous substitutes and mass production.
A corduroy sofa in brick color, reminiscent of the natural shades found in nature.
Materials
Another important aspect to keep in mind is the selection of appropriate materials. Interiors designed in Boho style should primarily refer to the surrounding environment. With this in mind, it is not difficult to guess that the most optimal materials will be those of natural origin, such as:
Wood
The most classic, and therefore also the most desired material, characterized not only by excellent durability but also by great design. Currently, natural wood is considered a noble material. — In practice, this means that furniture, accessories, and finishing products made from real wood stand out among other similar elements and add value to the entire interior.
Rooms decorated in Boho style absolutely adore wooden details, in almost every form. When it comes to specific types of wood, oak, bamboo, and delicate pine work wonderfully.
An oak coffee table is the perfect complement to a Boho-style living room.
Wicker
Wicker is a popular material, known for generations. Although it has experienced its ups and downs in recent years, it must be acknowledged that it is a material that fits perfectly into the Boho atmosphere. To create wicker, young shoots of several species of willows are essential. It is particularly important that these shoots undergo proper treatment, which makes them more flexible and durable. The term 'wicker' sometimes refers to a specific species of tree, namely the purple willow.
Wicker side table is a functional addition next to the sofa in the living room
Wool
Wool belongs to the category of natural protein fibers. In reality, it is the hair covering of sheep (sometimes also lambs), characterized by scaly texture and excellent thermal insulation. Interestingly, wool fiber contains lanolin, a type of wax produced by sheep's skin.
In practice, lanolin is nothing more than sebum from sheep's skin and is treated as a byproduct released during wool production. However, it is worth noting that lanolin has many applications in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. Wool works great both as upholstery for furniture and as a separate home accessory, for example, in the form of boho-style rug.
Wool rug adds coziness to your interior
Linen
Linen is a material obtained from plants of the flax family (currently estimated to include about 180 species of plants). Common flax is treated as a fiber-producing plant, and it is from this that the popular material of the same name is most often made.
Fabrics made from linen are ideal for people suffering from various allergies, as well as for everyone who appreciates its natural texture. Linen material is primarily characterized by softness, breathability, resistance to abrasion, and other factors that could potentially damage its surface, as well as high moisture absorption. Another important feature of linen is its biodegradability.
Lamp with a linen shade creates an interesting boho-style arrangement among other decorations
Cotton
Cotton is a material that needs no introduction. What sets it apart is primarily its high resistance to stretching, relatively easy availability, and resistance to high temperatures. Interestingly, cotton material, when damp, is even 30% more stretchable. Thanks to its properties, cotton can be safely washed in a washing machine and dried in the sun or in a dryer (according to the manufacturer's recommendations). The cotton finish works great, for example, in living room, characterized by softness and comfort.
Cotton throw in brown color adds coziness to your interior
Additionally, it is important to maintain appropriate forms - all interior decor elements should be relatively cohesive, but do not be afraid to mix patterns or colors. Interiors arranged in boho style are characterized primarily by delicacy, but among them, you can still see distinctive ethnic motifs.
Currently, such elements are most often visible on textiles like rugs, cushions, or throws and blankets, but it is also worth remembering about accessories in the form of freestanding home decorations - they should also reflect the main theme in their appearance.
Patterns
The patterns present in boho style are primarily rooted in folk themes. Sometimes, folk elements also relate to the tropics and exotic communities. A perfect example illustrating this relationship is embossed fabrics with Aztec diamonds or characteristic African masks hanging on the walls.
An interesting idea could also be to draw inspiration from colorful Morocco or cozy Bali, where craftsmanship reigns. Regardless of which of the aforementioned solutions you choose, remember that boho style does not have to be perfectly matched - you can freely mix elements and play with different trends. Interestingly, bold patterns are also a great idea for finishing touches. kitchen or dining room.
Boho style can also be introduced into the interior with the help of designer wallpaper
3 - Different faces of boho style
As we mentioned at the very beginning, boho style is not uniform. This means it can be found in various forms and faces. Depending on the main trend prevailing in a given decor, boho style can present itself in completely different ways. It is also worth emphasizing that boho style can serve as a great base for further room arrangements and mixing with other popular styles. Below you will find a brief characterization of the most popular variations of boho style.
Scandi boho
As the name suggests, Scandi Boho is a style that emerged from the fusion of two currently popular interior design styles: Scandinavian and bohemian. Although it may initially seem that the main principles of these two extreme types of decor contradict each other, it turns out that the coolness from the Scandinavian peninsula blends perfectly with a touch of hippie madness, creating incredible combinations that are hard to overlook.
The main challenge in creating an interior maintained in scandi boho style is skillfully selecting individual elements that are directly associated with that aesthetic. Harmonizing a neutral color palette with exotic or rustic accessories doesn't have to be that difficult when you have a wealth of inspiration and accessories at hand that can prove essential during the rearrangement of your spaces.
Wicker coffee table will add coziness to a scandi boho living room.
Classic boho
Classic boho still relies on ethnic elements and natural materials, which you could read more about in the earlier part of the article. The combination of airy fabrics, diverse textiles, and furniture made from wood (or derived materials) is the key to creating an interior maintained in boho style. Vibrant colors, macramé, and all kinds of decorations that evoke the freedom associated with bohemian style will fit perfectly here.
Classic boho works wonderfully in almost all rooms, starting from bedroom, ending with bathroom.
Rattan cabinet is a great addition to a boho style interior.
4 - What should guide you when decorating in boho style?
When deciding to decorate rooms in boho style, it is essential to pay particular attention to the significant role that accessories play. Rugs, throws, and all kinds of soft coverings will make your home not only much cozier but also comfortable. Natural sea grass baskets work wonderfully as decorative elements, but they can also serve as additional storage for items you prefer not to keep in plain sight.
Interestingly, the aforementioned basket is increasingly being used as a pot cover. If you want to add a bit more hippie look to your interior, you can also opt for ceramics in their classic, unpainted form - such additions will help you create a unique atmosphere reserved for boho style interiors.
Find boho style inspiration in the latest collection from Bloomingville