The secrets of Bohemian design

By: Penny Pilidou

Bohemian(n.) gypsy.

Wanderer. A person,musician,artist or writer who lives a free spirited life and believes in truth,freedom and love.

Boho soul, free spirit? Yes I am, I always was actually. Whatever I could think of whether it had to do with clothes or cushions was dominated by some bohemian vibes. Today it’s a style I see everywhere especially when it comes to interior design. So are you wondering what this style really looks like? Let’s start first from it’s history before you go into something deeper.

Bohemian is a modern word used for a group of people usually more unconventional, more artistic, more ‘’gypsy’’ style ones. It comes from the French word ‘’Bohemia’’ or ‘’La boheme’’ usually referring to travellers or even refugees coming from Central Europe, and is related to more folklore elements and when it comes to interiors it is associated with dusty colored textures and tiles and plants decoration.

The gypsies were groups with their own rules of living and generally their own unique lifestyle. It is often too risky to apply this style and you have to be very careful not to become kitch! After all, you will have to live in a space that reflects your personality!

The first thing you need to know is that bohemian objects may be so different from one another but they will all match in the end making in a strange way the perfect match. The key for a clean cut bohemian style is the smart combination of various colors and textures all together.

But how can you achieve that? Let me give you some tips for the colors you have to use. You have to know that there are no limits or rules when it comes to personal taste but if you want a classic bohemian style make sure you use some earthy and natural tones emphasizing in white and sand combining it with dusty pink, khaki, brown and camel hues.

If your soul is more colorful you can turn to some turquoise, fuchsia, saturated purple, orange or navy blue ones and get the same effect you wish.

And now that you matched the colors, what about the feeling on your couch? Just so you know, the most popular bohemian fabrics are cotton, linen, lace and suede and if you are bold enough you can complete the image with some colorful blankets, curtains or bed covers. Do not neglect the fact that your furniture must be mostly wood with few metallic elements. You can apply bohemian ideas to all of your rooms, living room, bedroom, kitchen and there can be no limits to your fantasy! Here are a few decor treasures you can use to give that unique boho touch:

• Dreamcatchers.Yes it might seem weird but they will definitely help you make your dreams come true.

• Macrame: a beautiful technique that can be applied all over many materials and give that gypsy tone you are anxious for.

• Hanging chairs. Yes I know it's tricky enough but don’t miss it especially if you have a balcony.

• plants, plants, plants, keep in mind that they are one of the most essential elements of your decor.

• Seagrass baskets, use them for your laundry and add a playful tone to your bathroom.

• Peacock chairs. They have been popular enough since the ‘60’s and still are

• Bohemian rugs, use these colorful little friends of yours everywhere in the house and give some joy to your life.

• Poofs or floor cushions with botanical prints can add a vibrant touch

• Floral Wallpapers, applied to your living room can be a perfect match to your chosen comfy couch.

Of course the key to all of that is to keep the walls white or choose to paint only one side differently in some faded green or beige and let your accessories blow the air!

Do they seem like a lot to you? Matching all colors and textures together? If yes, don't be afraid and don’t hesitate. Bohemian style is exactly the opposite of minimal style. It has nothing to do with the commonly used phrase ‘’Less is more '’’. Reality is close to a ‘More is more’ philosophy and in fact it is the king of Mix and Match! Bohemian interiors advise that you should not use any damaged materials but use decorative objects that only have this vintage look.

The rooms you are about to decorate have to be connected with pureness, relaxation and functionality so everything you will include inside each must have to do with plain easy lines and only the elements you will add can be more embellished like Moroccan tapestry, enriched fabrics, handlooms and cultural artefacts.

One more tip before you go out and buy everything. You will live inside your house probably for the rest of your life so make sure you choose what is a perfect match with your personal ideas, feelings and thoughts. My mind is usually blown away (a gypsy kid myself) from dreaming of houses in Californian style so choose every tiny object with affection and wisely.. Your own space has first to be all about creating the harmony and energy you need to enjoy peaceful moments alone or with friends.