Walking through a bohemian design often presents us with a story of one’s personal travels and experiences. Each piece in the room is intentionally chosen with a deeper meaning. As a style based on travels, it’s no surprise that creating the perfect boho living room will have you searching for the best decor for your space.
But what can you add to a boho living room to make it feel curated yet eclectic? Here are our best tips for designing a boho living room and the must-have features for this style.
Use an earthy color palette
The simplest way to introduce a boho theme to your living room design is by updating your color palette.
Neutrals, browns, and creams
Neutrals are trendy for a boho living room design. Because of their earthy aesthetic, all shades of brown, cream, white, off-white, and beige are perfect for a bohemian style. Use neutral tones to create a cozy backdrop in your space that leaves room for the more eclectic decor of this aesthetic. Additionally, use paint colors with warm undertones for the perfect look.
Shades of green
Green is another popular color for a bohemian palette. With deep evergreen shades entering the home more prominently in recent years, you might find that a dark green accent wall in your boho living room design is trendy and luxe. Alternatively, you can add hints of green as an accent tone throughout the room, particularly through the use of plants.
Terra-cotta, pink, and orange
When curating the perfect boho color palette, you’ll want to add terra-cotta, pink, or orange to your neutral base. If you’re working with deep brown, add terra-cotta or pink for a soft and uplifting feel. If you’re using a cream or off-white backdrop in your living room, experiment with desert hues and subtle oranges for the perfect boho design.
Curate a well-traveled look
The bohemian style is all about a laid-back lifestyle filled with travels galore. You’ll often find many souvenirs and meaningful pieces in a well-traveled bohemian design.
Southwestern themes
Southwestern themes are ultra popular in boho home designs. Cacti, desert-themed decor, cowboy boots, animal hide rugs, dream catchers, and Native American decor are all common features in boho design. Typically, these pieces are purchased from travels in the Southwest area of the U.S. from locals on ranches or reservations.
We highly recommend purchasing your southwestern decor from skilled craftsmen rather than from a big retailer. More authentic pieces will enhance your design, while many mass-market pieces could cheapen the look of your room.
Moroccan decor
Moroccan patterned rugs, leather poufs, silk curtains, and copper fixtures are also popular elements to add to a boho design. Consider adding a Moroccan rug or leather pouf to your living room for a cozy, lived-in aesthetic.
Asiatic elements
You’ll also see many Asian elements within bohemian design. Some examples include statues of deities from various religions, incense burners, beaded curtains, and lanterns. Again, to achieve the best look, it’s best to purchase these from local artisans.
Intentional use of texture is a must
Texture is one design aspect you don’t want to overlook when designing a boho living room.
Macrame details
Macrame might not be as trendy as it was in 2014. However, many boho designs still use macrame in their decor. Hanging macrame wall art and plant holders are common in boho designs. You’ll also find macrame on curtains and as centerpieces on tables.
Fringe
Fringe details on pillowcases and throw blankets are another boho design feature. Fringe edges can be added to many things. Some homeowners even add fringe details to lampshades, furniture trimmings, and curtains.
Patterned fabrics
Patterned fabrics are a must in boho living room decor. Patterned rugs, blankets, curtains, pillowcases, and wall decor are prominent features in boho design. You’ll likely see a bit of clashing patterns and layered materials as well. The key is to use a similar neutral and warm-toned color palette throughout your design to tie it all together.
Layered rugs
Another thing you’ll want to do in your boho living room design is to layer your rugs. Instead of opting for one large area rug, choose a few rugs with varying patterns, shapes, and sizes and layer them throughout the space to create an eclectic look.
Go for an organic look
Bohemian design is based on authenticity. Curated and eclectic pieces that speak to the designer’s travels and personal experiences are more important than store-bought decor. Organic pieces are the easiest way to achieve this aesthetic.
Add plants
Plants are the perfect biophilic addition to a bohemian living room design. Be sure to add plenty of plants in various sizes throughout the room. Large potted plants like monstera are great by the window or sofa, while small plants like cacti and succulents are great for the TV console, coffee table, or nearby shelves.
Adorn with handmade pottery
Handmade pottery is another great decor option for adorning your boho space. Choose sculpted pieces by artisans that offer an organic look. Terra-cotta vases, mosaic stands, and hand-painted pots are excellent choices for decorating your living room.
Use vintage pieces
If possible, try to thrift many of your decor pieces and furniture, particularly shelves, storage cabinets, side tables, and art. Vintage pieces add an elegant and lived-in touch to the space, offering a cozy and curated aesthetic.
Boho design is all about gathering a collection of wares and trinkets from your travels or experiences that tell a story about who you are and where you’ve been. Each piece should be unique and intentional. As you design your space, lean into handmade and organic pieces when you can to generate a more eclectic and eccentric appearance.
