Boho-inspired bedrooms are laid-back, relaxed and effortless. Instead of focusing on perfectly styling a space, they take a more free-spirited approach.
Paula Boston, a visual merchandiser at Festive Lights says: “We are seeing people introduce more calming and free-spirited designs into their homes, thanks to the influence of wellbeing and mindfulness. The boho look demonstrates to people how soft neutrals and natural textures can still warm dull spaces, particularly for the spring months.”
How to create a boho bedroom
“Creating a casual, carefree aesthetic is central to boho decorating,” say the colour experts at Benjamin Moore. “Use a mix of comforting neutrals to infuse your bedroom design with a warm, relaxing glow.”
Look to nature to be inspired. The rich hues of terracotta are sure to add warmth to your bedroom, whilst sandy tones and pebble-like shades will keep your bedroom feeling airy. Neutral hues can be mixed and matched easily, and pair brilliantly with the natural materials that are key to boho interiors – rattan, wood and cane. Use stark white hues sparingly and instead opt for off-white shades. If your shade is too bright it can work against the cocoon-like feeling you aim to create.
For additional colour, look to greenery to provide the exotic elements that align so well with boho bedrooms. A vibrant monstera or tall and leafy fiddle-leaf fig will break up a neutral colour palette and add depth. Greenery also contrasts brilliantly with the rich tones of dark wood bedroom furniture.
For a truly relaxed bedroom, forgo harsh ceiling light in favour of lamps, fairy lights and pendant lights. You want to create a soft, warmly-lit room, which is key to achieving a laid-back atmosphere.
“When it comes to incorporating lighting for the boho style, choose soft lighting options such as pendant lights, string lights or table and wall lamps,” advises Paula. “Create the perfect eclectic look by setting the bright lights against a gold, green or pink background to complement the warm glow, or add some hippy chic by draping the lights around a hanging chair. The key to this style is to create a unique look that feels soothing and complements your personality – so get creative.”
Experiment with lampshades to get a look that suits you, and we think the more unique, the better. This is also a great chance to get creative with texture and colour – both of which will affect how light is cast out and the ambience of your bedroom.
“Incorporating several textures, patterns and layers into your bedroom will help bring a cosy, yet unexpected flair, to your space,” says Tiffany Olson, a trend expert at Mecari. “Fuse natural boho favourites like rattan and wood with textures like velvet and shag to help create dimension. Also, look for items like pillows and throws with sweet touches like tassels and pom poms for a playful vibe.”
Varying texture creates a tactile finish that encourages you to reach out and touch, plus, it’s an easy way to add depth to your bedroom. Your soft furnishings are an easy win but also consider experimenting with furniture that features a variety of textures – the roughness of a cane accent chair can be juxtaposed with a sleek wooden dresser. Heavy linen curtains can be layered over a breezy voile panel.
Boho can be tricky to define as interior style, as although it took root in Paris in the 19th century, inspired by the artistic nomads that flocked there, contemporary boho bedrooms contain influences that range from Ibiza hippy chic to Moroccan-inspired. However, we think that the freedom to mix and match as you please is all part of its charm.
Look to your travels for inspiration – a rug from Morroco, a cushion cover from Spain and a fan from Thailand all have their place in a boho bedroom. Choose decor that evokes happy memories of adventures, or those that lean towards places you’d like to visit.
All countries (including the UK) have incredibly talented artisans that create unique, handmade items that you won’t find on the high street. These are the pieces that will make your bedroom feel truly unlike any other. Etsy, The Country Living Marketplace, and Trouva are all brilliant resources when it comes to sourcing these pieces.
“Whimsy is the name of the game when it comes to boho chic,” says Tiffany. “While it’s highly encouraged to bring several whimsical elements into your space – think groovy floral pillows, mushroom lamps and colourful crochet blankets – you can achieve the boho look – and save money – by opting for bigger, statement pieces like rounded egg chairs, canopies or botanical wallpaper.”
Homemade and hand-me-down pieces are key to getting whimsy just right. Why not crochet your own blanket or craft a handmade quilt? Don’t worry about things not looking perfect, in fact, less-than-perfect pieces are what will truly give your boho bedroom some charm.
You can also repurpose pre-loved and vintage furniture in your bedroom. A few scratches and tarnishes only add extra character. Car boot sales are the perfect place to find furniture, as is Facebook Marketplace.
Full Moon Ceramic Decoration
Beach Garden Print Trio
Terracotta Tea Light in Frosted Glaze
Calendula Cushion in Blackcurrant
Soy Wax Candle – Unwind 500ml
