Boho chic has exploded in the world of interior design. Its easygoing, bohemian aesthetics mix bold, bright colors with textures and natural elements that are so pleasing they feel at once timeless and welcoming. And if you’ve been hoping to put a fun, colorful spin on your dull living room, boho chic could be the perfect style for you.
But how do you pull off the boho look without it coming off as messy or overwhelming? Don’t fret, we have you covered. Here are 10 boho chic living room ideas to inspire you to bring quirky charm, supreme comfort, and wild creativity to your space.
Layer Rugs for a Cozy Foundation
Warmth is one of the defining features of a boho living room — and doubling up on rugs is one no-brainer way to bring on the heat. Layer rugs with different patterns, colors and textures. For example, begin with a plain jute rug as a base and throw a colorful Moroccan or kilim rug over the top. This serves to add depth and provide a soft, comfortable footing.
Pro Tip:
For layered rugs, it is best to keep to colours that complement one another so they don’t clash. To add a bit of authenticity, opt for hand-woven rugs to achieve a more artisanal look and feel.
Incorporate a Mix of Throw Pillows
Boho chic is not about perfectly coordinated design. It’s about combining textures and patterns in a harmonious way. Toss some fun throw pillows on your couch, loveseat, or floor seating. Layer materials such as macramé, velvet and embroidered cotton for a lush and welcoming feel.
Key Colors for Boho Chic:
Rust, mustard, teal, sage green and terracotta all shout boho style. Utilize these same colours to collage your mix of patterns from the collection of pillows.
Bring in Natural Elements
Boho is earthy with nature as a focal point. Add wood furniture, rattan chairs or wicker baskets to anchor the room. Don’t forget plants! Luxuriant foliage brings the outside in and offers a bright, fresh space. Think fiddle leaf figs, monsteras and hanging pothos.
Styling Tip:
For planters, consider using woven planters or ceramic pots that fit the boho vibe. Space the shelves at different heights for dimension.
Use Wall Hangings and Tapestries
One would be hard-pressed to find a basic wall in a boho chic living room. Provide some personality with macramé wall hangings, dreamcatchers or bright and funky tapestries. Not just for decoration, these elements help soften the space.
Alternative Idea:
If tapestries aren’t your style, you could also design a gallery wall with an array of art pieces and vintage frames, mixing photography with abstract art and travel-inspired prints.
Go Vintage and Thrifted
Boho chic is often about celebrating individuality and self-expression, so say goodbye to the cookie-cutter furniture. Look for thrifted or vintage finds that have interesting character. A vintage coffee table, an old mirror or a distressed leather chair can help get guests talking, and elevate your design even further.
Where to Find Gems:
Scour the flea markets; hit up the second-hand stores; or better yet, upcycle what you already own with a new coat of paint, or some new hardware.
Layer Lighting Sources
Lighting has the immediate ability change the feel of a room and in a boho chic room it’s all about layering. Try layering with soft, warm light sources, such as floor lamps, string lights and statement pendant lamps. Seek out options in earthy materials such as woven rattan or bamboo.
Bonus Tip:
Boho wanna-bees might also purchase candles. Gather them in piles on trays or shelves for a cozy feel.
Incorporate Low, Casual Seating
Boho chic living rooms have a welcoming and relaxing ambiance that is ideal for unwinding or for getting together with friends. Include some floor cushions, poufs or beanbags for additional seating. Ottomans in leather or woven materials can do double duty as seating and décor.
Arrangement Idea:
These more casual seating options look great layered around a coffee table or rug. It makes the space inviting for spontaneous conversations or lounging.
Add Bold Patterns and Textiles
Boho Chic Design — Patterns are Key Patterns are the staple of boho chic design. Bring in such bold designs like paisley or tribal or geomercial prints with cushions or rugs or curtains. And don’t be scared to mix clashing patterns — that’s part of the boho appeal!
Expert Tip:
Pair brighter patterns with solid color pieces to stand off the room too much.
Curate with Books and Travel Finds
There’s no getting around the fact that boho chic is personal, so use décor to set the stage for your stories. Toss your coffee table books, souvenirs, pottery and framed photos on open shelving. The room feels curated and lived-in with a mix of objects.
Focus on Sentimentality:
Objects with meaning (that bowl you bought on your last vacation) will give you joy in the space and bring a stronger emotional connection to the room.
Use Earthy Colors and Textures
Earthy tones and rich textures are at the core of boho chic design. Add in terracotta, mustard, forest green and cream. Pair this color story with textural items such as wool throws, linen cushions, and rattan furniture for a naturally warm and grounded vibe.
Paint Hack:
Once you’re all in with the whole boho vibe, paint an accent wall a warm terracotta hue or soft cream to match the tone for the rest of the room.
An Inviting Sanctuary Awaits
With the 10 design ideas above, you’ll soon be able to outfit your boho chic living room in a way that is both rewarding and personal to you. Keep in mind, boho aesthetic is all about unique and comfort! Mixing patterns, playing with mismatched pieces, layering textures and, above all, making a space that feels good to you.
Whether you are putting together throws or picking out the perfect macramé plant hanger, let the slowness of this act be pleasurable. And for more design inspiration, check out all of our other decor guides too.
FAQ
Q: What elements characterize boho chic design?
A: Boho chic is all about individuality, comfort and eclecticism. These include layered textures, natural materials, pops of bright color, mixed patterns, and interesting, personal accent pieces.
Q: How can I get the boho chic look on a budget?
A: Absolutely! Thrift shops, flea markets, and DIY are great methods of achieving a boho chic living room on a budget. Chances are, secondhand furniture, DIY decor, and affordable textiles can transform it into your own.
Q: Are there colors that are especially part of an boho design?
A: Not at all. Earthy shades, such as terracotta, beige and olive green are popular, but feel free to add your favorite colors. Boho chic is all about freedom and self-expression so don’t be afraid to play around.
Q: Is boho chic appropriate for small spaces?
A: Yes! Boho chic thrives in small spaces. Opt for multifunctional furniture, hang plant holders to free up floor space and layer textures for depth and personality without the clutter.
Q: How to add plants to my boho chic living room?
A: Plants are key for boho design. Opt for a mix of houseplants, such as ferns, succulents or trailing vines. Hang them in woven baskets, in ceramic pots, or macrame holders to bring the outdoors inside and add life to your home.
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