What is Boho Design?

Boho design comes from the inspiration of individuals who have chosen an unconventional lifestyle according to the majority, such as writers, actors, and travelers. Combining patterns, colors, and objects from all across the globe, this lifestyle and design go hand-in-hand with one another.

This design style is particularly unique in that you can truly make it your own. For a quick way to summarize this design style, think of a blend of global inspiration paired with an eclectic look. Boho design is known for being carefree and casual with a relaxed look.

History of Boho Design

The history of Boho design has roots as far back as the early nineteenth century in France. Artists seeking alternatives to bourgeois expectations filling the country began moving towards the lower-rent regions of Paris, known as the Romani or gypsy regions.

From this movement came a rise of the vagabond lifestyle. Rather than seeking out the wealth and luxuries of the rest of the country, people sought alternative ideals of beauty and creative lifestyles.

Today, the Boho design we see filling countless homes pays homage to these free-spirited and culturally mixed individuals. The one common characteristic of all Boho designs is incorporating different lifestyles, parts of the world, and philosophies, all blended into a beautifully eclectic style.

Boho vs. Eclectic Design

The word eclectic comes up often when describing Boho design, but it’s essential to differentiate the two. While there are similarities between Boho and eclectic interior design, they are not the same.

Electectic interior design tends to be a broader term for a design style known for blending different design elements and styles. On the other hand, Boho is a specific term used to explain the design style that artfully mixes multiple decor elements.

While Boho design refers to a particular design style, any style can have an eclectic approach or nature. That is the primary way to separate the two in your mind.

Characteristics of Boho Design

If you want to learn more about Boho design, you’ve come to the right place. Here are a few of the main characteristics you can expect in Boho design. One of the signature concepts of Boho design is that there are no hard rules, but there are some common trends you’ll see.

Colors

There are no actual color palettes when it comes to Boho design. After all, this style incorporates everything from warm, earthy tones to jewel tones and even metallics. So rather than sticking to one palette, consider layering and combining to bring unique options together. For example, you can try grays, greens, or browns for your base colors. Then, use electric blues, fiery oranges, and saturated purples for your accent colors and accessories.

Don’t be afraid to blend textures and patterns that might not necessarily go together conventionally. Bring exoticism and fun into your home by adding dyed designs and textiles from across the globe. Think tapestries on walls and throws on furniture to add exciting features throughout your apartment.

Materials

The key to the design is a “more is more” philosophy. Boho design is on the opposite end of the spectrum. Mixing and matching are critical for decorative materials in a Boho-style apartment. Rather than utilizing materials that are shiny and new, opt for materials that have a slightly worn look, such as:

• Macrame
• Crochet
• Fringe
• Burlap
• Chenille
• Silk

Furniture

The furniture found in Boho-designed homes is not typical items you’d find in your regular store. Instead, these pieces have been hand-selected from swap meets or second-hand shops with an authentic vintage look and feel. As a result, each piece you choose for your apartment should have a story of its own.

Floor seating is a crucial element of Boho-style apartments, including overstuffed floor pillows and throw rugs. The idea is to encourage a “come-in-and-stay-awhile” feel. If not floor seating, opt for other comfortable seating choices like:

• Butterfly chairs
• Daybeds
• Chaise lounges

Tips to Bring Boho Design Into Your Apartment

Here is a quick guide for a more specific approach to bringing Boho design into your apartment.

Boho Bedroom

Blend a variety of patterns, like shibori and stripes, in your bedroom but try to keep the available color palette aligned. Remember to choose colorful and bold prints, all of which are trademarks of Boho design. Add even more texture and color to your bedroom by layering pillows, blankets, and area rugs throughout the room.

Boho Living Room

The living room is the space to let your Boho design come to life. Quickly and easily infuse Boho style in your apartment by adding artwork and textiles. Then, start bringing in accent pieces like throw pillows with elements like:

• Tassels
• Beadwork
• Block-prints
• Embroidery

Boho Home Office

Incorporate your Boho design in your workspace by adding a thrifted desk. It doesn’t have to be a traditional desk. Instead, think outside the box and opt for any creative piece you can integrate into your space. Other items like accents, cube bookcases, an overstuffed chaise lounge, and a shaggy Moroccan rug tie the room together.

Boho-Inspired Porch

If you’re lucky enough to have an apartment with outdoor space, don’t let your Boho design stop with your interior. Create a Boho-inspired porch with an ornate folding screen, chandeliers, and garlands, all hung at various heights. A leather pouf and high-sided sofa provide ample cozy seating paired with fringed textiles.

Final Thoughts

Deciding if Boho design is suitable for you depends on personal preference. If you like the idea of an eclectic blend of worldly collectibles, a Boho-style apartment is going to be an excellent option.

Alternatively, if you prefer a more modern approach with minimal details, you might want to reconsider.

Ultimately, the decision is up to you. But, thankfully, now that you have a better idea of Boho design, its features, and benefits, you can decide what is best suited for your lifestyle. And, if you choose to, now you know how to integrate Boho design into your apartment.

Interested in finding an apartment to decorate it to your boho style dreams? Consider registering with Apartment List!