If you have an Instagram account and you like looking at interior design chances are its flooded with Boho images. You might not even known that's what the style you're looking at is, as it can have a few variations.

That's one of the great advantages about Boho, you get to add your own personality to it. It's a style that evolves over time, as you gather items throughout your life from traveling or from life events that remind you of happy times. It's a collectors dream interior for this reason.  

WHERE DID BOHO INTERIOR DESIGN COME FROM?

Boho originated in the 19^th century, mainly in Paris during the French Revolution. Due to the social and economic climate, artists were forced to live a life of poverty. They started to wear second hand clothes and created items of furniture for their homes out of repurposed materials. Creatives used their resourcefulness and decided to channel their artistic flare into fashion and interiors, this style developed into what we now call Bohemian.

WHAT EXACTLY IS A BOHEMIAN STYLE?

When you think of Boho aesthetics you might think late 60s and 70s with a heavy influence on hippie fashion. All of which would be correct but when applying this style to interior, naturals are the backbone with colour accents used as flair with statement accessories. 

WHAT ELEMENTS MAKE UP A BOHO INTERIOR?

Boho is heavily influenced by your own personality. This can be showcased by pictures and décor that hold significant importance to the you. Open floor planning and lots of natural light makes this style feel more modern and clean so that’s always a great place to start.

The good news for Boho enthusiasts is you don't need to spend a lot of money to decorate in a Boho style. You can go to a thrift store to pick up a vintage rug or funky chandelier. It's a heavy do-it-yourself approach that involves hanging family pictures or making macramé wall hangings for your children’s bedroom. You can get them involved in the process as well which can be a lot of fun. 

A few thoughtful accessories can quickly transform your space and help to create texture and warmth. Think sheepskin rugs, linen and wool throws anything that feels nice to touch.

Common furniture materials throughout this style are rattan/wicker mirrors, chairs and coffee tables. Rattan and wicker was huge in the 70s but still today has a contemporary trendy vibe while giving that vintage nod to a space.

An absolute must in Boho interior are plants. Lots of them, hanging from the ceiling, in pots and in planters. They tend to be tropical and in various sizes and styles. They go hand in hand with the Boho ethos of less stress and a nurturing environment. So a green thumb is needed, if you don’t already have one.

At its heart, Boho revolves around a free flow of positive energy. It's solely about what feels right and makes your space feel happier to live in. 

5 TIPS TO HELP YOU ACHIEVE A BOHO INTERIOR DESIGN

1. TEXTURE

Use lots of texture throughout the space. Layering rugs, blankets in multiple patterns and shapes can help add some texture and colour to your home while also giving it a lived-in, eclectic look.

2. ART

Adding your own taste and personality to this interior will not only make the space feel more like you but you can flex those creative muscles. Highlight your own landscape pictures, macramé or vases you’ve made. Handmade items can really complement a room and highlight your individuality. It’s also a great talking point for when guests come to stay.

Try painting something as a family and have it framed to hang on the wall. You might be surprised at how much it comes to mean to you years down the line when your little ones have grown-up and moved out.

3. PLANTS

Plants are a must in a Boho interior. They are aesthetically pleasing and can offer strong health benefits as well.

Studies have shown that indoor plants keep you healthier and happier, offering both psychological and physical health benefits by improving your mood, reducing fatigue and lowering stress and anxiety.

They are also the most natural way of introducing a pop of colour to your room.

4. LIGHTING

Light is an important component in this style so switch it up by using a mixture of lighting. You can install lanterns, string lights and candles to convey the Boho relaxed style. Materials used in Boho lighting are rattan, wood, colourful ceramics, fringe, floral motifs and brass. There’s lots of choice available which should make it easy to find something that fits into your overall aesthetics.

5. FURNITURE

Low-level and relaxed seating help to create a Boho vibe in your home.  Leather poufs, ottomans and bean bag chairs provide relaxed seating.

Try and stay away from using black furniture or dark leather poufs. Use light colours and light woods. The room should feel light, bright and airy.

Reflective items are prefect accents in a Bohemian-style. Gold light fixture, copper planter, wicker-framed mirror and metallic tables are all fantastic items that help to create texture.

Summed up - add some plants, a rug/throw in a colour you love. Keep your base neutral sticking to beiges and tans and add your own art and personality into the mix and you’re all set to go!

Here are a few furniture ideas to help you create a Boho style.

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Enjoy and as always have fun!