How to create a Bohemian design

To kick of the "Creating a design" series, I am starting with a modern bohemian theme. The style encompasses the nomadic lifestyle from generations of gypsies, artists and musicians. The bohemian style became popular in the 60s and 70s and has become a long-standing interior design style. Over the years the style has modernised and the colours and textures have been toned down to create a relaxed, carefree and travelled style. The mood board consists of products currently on the market and the items are listed below.

Yaku Natural Woven Hemp Pendant Shade, £75 from La Redoute

Artificial Plant in Woven Pot, £164 from Maisons Du Monde

Hanging Basket from, £98 Anthropologie

Copper Aluminium side table, £130 from Habitat

Rattan Chair, $249 from Urban Outfitters

Mango Wood Decorative Vase, £40 from Amara

Plaid Design Wallpaper, £5.91 from Livettes on Etsy

Morocco wool rug, price no longer available from Etsy

Four door sideboard, £950 from Gramham & Green

Style breakdown

In order to effectively achieve a Bohemian space, we need to understand the elements of the design first. Below I have featured some amazing accounts that demonstrate how to successfully create a bohemian scheme and the ways in which they have achieved the look.

1. Layers

Bohemian design is all about the layering of texture, colour and pattern into a space. You want to create an area of rich interest to the eye that is also relaxing to be in. Layer up your cushions, rugs, or throws in different tones of colour and patterns to add depth to the space. As you can see in Danet’s bedroom the patterned rug adds texture to the space but also brings together a cohesive colour scheme for the bedding.

Image by Daneta Budalich at danetab

2. Natural Materials

Using natural materials is a key with bohemian style. Think leather, cotton, linen, wicker and wood. As you can See Kate has used wicker and rattan furniture in her living room to give it that natural accent. If you want to use hints of bohemian style in your home this is the way to do it. Take an element of the design that you think will work with your room and spread it across the room to create a consistent design

Image by Kate Spiers at Kate.lavie

3. Natural Colours

Bohemian style originates from a gipsy lifestyle, so it’s only natural that the colours should reflect the great outdoors. Earthy colours such as browns, yellows and reds create a warm colour pallet that is associated with a bohemian design. This mixed with natural materials such as wood forms a relaxed, calming environment that draws inspiration from mother earth's colour pallet.

Image by Nina at Houseofniina

4. Indoor plants

Bring life into the bohemian design with planting. Plants are a key element, they bring the natural world inside which is the essence of the design, but also adds an uplifting atmosphere. They are also relativity affordable which is a bonus.

Image by Shyla Cino at Shylacino

I hope you enjoy creating your bohemian home!