If you’ve ever felt drawn to warm, textured spaces that feel lived-in and a little wild, you’re probably already a fan of boho style.

Bohemian interior design doesn’t follow a rulebook. It’s loose, layered, and “collected” over curated, which is why it works so well in so many homes. For these reasons, it’s one of the easiest styles to make your own.

^{Photo by Lucas de Moura on Unsplash}

Where Bohemian Interior Design Got Started

Bohemian interior design came from the fringes. Emerging in 15th-century France, the French word “bohemién” applied to nomadic Roma people who worked unconventional jobs. In the 19th century, the word took on its more modern meaning, referring to artists, writers, and wanderers who rejected tradition in favour of something freer.

Over time, bohemian interiors became a way to show off creativity and culture. Layered, lived-in spaces started blending with global design influences, showcasing a mix of colours, textures, and keepsakes that had been gathered throughout one’s journey.

While today’s modern bohemian interior design might be a bit more pared back, the overall ethos is the same. Make it meaningful. Make it yours.

Another style with Parisian origins? Art deco! Find out what makes Art Deco design so interesting.

What Makes Boho, Boho?

The unique personality of boho design is what makes it perfect, but the style does have a few calling cards that you’ll see show up again and again:

^{Photo by Lotus Design N Print on Unsplash}

Layered Textures

Macramé wall hangings. Woven baskets. Fluffy pillows. Fringed throws. Boho rooms are built on feel just as much as function, with texture doing much of the heavy lifting. Mixing different materials gives the space warmth and dimension, even if you stick to a neutral colour palette.

Layering is key here, on your bed, your couch, even your walls. It makes the space feel cozy, collected, and unforced.

Natural Elements

If it comes from the earth, it probably fits in a boho room. Plenty of raw materials like wood, rattan, jute, bamboo, clay, and linen are associated with this style. These elements ground the space and add to that distinct lived-in feel.

Global Patterns

Patterns play a huge part in bohemian interiors by drawing influence from cultures around the world. You might spot a Moroccan tile print, a Persian-style rug, Indian block prints, or Turkish kilims all in one space.

What ties them together? A shared sense of story. Boho design is less about matching and more about meaning. The collective “bigger picture” if you will.

Earthy Tones (With a Twist!)

Boho palettes tend to start with warm, grounding colours like terracotta, rust, camel, and olive. BUT. That’s not where they stop. Rich jewel tones like emerald, mustard, or indigo often get layered in for contrast and depth.

In modern bohemian interior design, you’ll sometimes also see lighter touches of creamy whites, soft sands, and pale woods for a breezier feel.

Eclectic, Collected Pieces

Nothing screams boho like a home that looks lived-in and loved. Mix vintage furniture with modern lighting. Hang quirky art you’ve made or been gifted. Display secondhand books, records, and ceramics. Don’t be afraid to show off anything that means something to you.

Bohemian interiors are curated over time, not bought in one big box store haul. They reflect you and your story.

Collecting is cool — and sustainable! Learn why sustainable interior design is one of MMIDs favourites.

How to Bring Boho Into Your Home

You don’t need to book a one-way flight to Marrakesh to pull off bohemian interior design. Try kicking things off with a few easy swaps:

^{Photo by Clay Banks on Unsplash}

Start with Textiles

Try layering a vintage-inspired rug over your hardwood or adding a block-printed throw to your couch. Swap plain curtains for something sheer and breezy or hang a handmade macramé above your bed. Add Plants—Then Add More

Nothing fills a space quite like greenery, and boho homes don’t hold back on plant life. Mix pots, hang a few from the ceiling, or line them up on a sunny windowsill.

Mix Old & New

One of the easiest ways to create that collected look is by mixing eras. Pair your clean-lined sofa with a carved wood coffee table. Or add a flea market side chair next to your modern bed. If it feels like it shouldn’t work but somehow does, you’re probably doing it right.

Play with Pattern & Colour

Bohemian interiors are fearless when it comes to layering. Try a few cushions in different prints or mix stripes with florals, or paisley with ikat. Then throw in a bold accent like a mustard throw or indigo wall hanging for good measure.

Make It Personal

Start displaying all the wacky things you’ve collected throughout your life. Hang your own photos. Use art that makes you feel something. Skip the mass-produced stuff and focus on things with meaning, even if they’re a little imperfect.

Go Big or Go Boho

Bohemian interior design doesn’t care about getting it “right.” The only thing that matters is creating a space that feels relaxed, expressive, and like yours. You can go bold or keep it breezy. Fill every corner or leave some breathing room. Stick to neutrals or splash in colour. As long as it feels collected and personal, it fits.

So whether you’re adding a few boho touches or going full-on free spirit, just remember that the best spaces don’t follow rules. They follow the people who use them.

Ready to make all your boho dreams come true? Give MMID a shout!