The boho design movement has captivated homeowners for decades with its free-spirited charm. Rooted in travel-inspired eclecticism, this style blends textures, colors, and cultural influences into a harmonious space. From Moroccan lanterns to mid-century modern furniture, each piece tells a story.
Originally shaped by 19th-century European travelers, the boho aesthetic saw a revival in the 1960s. Today, it embraces layered textiles, vintage finishes, and organic materials. The result? A home that feels both curated and effortlessly cozy.
This guide explores how to infuse your space with global flair. Discover color palettes, statement lighting, and handcrafted textiles that bring warmth. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a design lover, these tips make it easy to create a personalized retreat.
Key Takeaways
- Boho style blends travel-inspired elements with cozy textures.
- Layered rugs, vintage finds, and organic materials define the look.
- Moroccan and mid-century influences add depth to the design.
- Warm color palettes and global textiles create inviting spaces.
- Statement lighting enhances the eclectic vibe.
1. Embrace a Rich, Earthy Color Palette
Earth tones create an instant sense of warmth and comfort. Start with sand, terracotta, or ochre walls—these sun-drenched neutrals anchor the space. Natural wood furniture, like teak side tables, enhances the organic vibe.
Warm neutrals as your base
Benjamin Moore’s “Burnt Umber” adds depth to accent walls. For lighter spaces, pair paprika-toned rugs with white linen bedding—a tip from budget-friendly boho designs. Matte black iron fixtures introduce subtle contrast.
Pops of jewel tones for depth
Layer velvet throw pillows in emerald green or sapphire blue. These saturated hues play well with neutral backdrops. Rebecca Gardner’s saffron silk curtains add sunny accents, while Farrow & Ball’s “India Yellow” brightens corners.
- Pro tip: Use Moroccan tiles for color-blocking in the living room.
- Maryam Montague’s terracotta-and-indigo combos evoke Marrakech’s oasis feel.
- Mix patterns sparingly—balance bold prints with solid textiles.
2. Layer Textures for a Cozy, Collected Feel
Layering textures transforms a room into a tactile retreat. Think nubby bouclé against sleek leather or jute rugs layered over sisal. These contrasts create depth—essential for a space that feels lived-in and inviting.
Mix rattan, jute, and velvet
Natural materials like rattan chairs or jute flooring ground the design. Velvet throw pillows add a luxe counterpoint—try emerald green for drama. Jacques Grange’s Portuguese villa showcases wicker’s versatility, while hammered brass trays introduce metallic warmth.
Add faux fur and woven throws
Faux fur drapes over mid-century sofas add instant comfort. Chunky knit throws or Serena Dugan’s hemp wall hangings bring vertical interest. For earthy grounding, Rita Chan Interiors’ terra-cotta tiles pair beautifully with sheepskin rugs.
- Pro tip: Drape a macramé throw over peacock chairs for bohemian flair.
- Mexican hammered copper planters add artisanal texture.
- Cortney Bishop’s tasseled lampshades soften angular furniture.
3. Incorporate Handcrafted Global Textiles
Handcrafted textiles bring soulful character to any space. These pieces—woven, dyed, or embroidered by artisans—infuse rooms with cultural narratives and tactile richness. From vibrant Kilim rugs to intricate Suzani embroidery, each textile adds layers of history and warmth.
Kilim rugs and Suzani tapestries
Decorilla’s designers often anchor rooms with Turkish Kilim rugs. Their geometric patterns pop against neutral floors. For walls, Allison Willson’s nursery designs showcase Suzani tapestries—hand-stitched motifs that double as art.
Layer vintage Persian carpets under Kilims for contrast. Drape a Suzani as a bed canopy for bohemian drama.
Block-printed pillows from India
Justina Blakeney’s ikat collections prove bold prints need no apology. Source Ajrakh block-printed pillows from Gujarat—their indigo-and-madder hues evoke sun-drenched markets. Fair Trade organizations ensure ethical sourcing.
- Frame kantha quilts as wall hangings for textile art.
- Moroccan blankets on ladder shelves add organic texture.
- Oaxacan embroidered pillow covers introduce folkloric charm.
4. Curate a Mix of Vintage and Artisan Furniture
Flea markets and artisan workshops hold treasures that elevate boho interiors. Each vintage find—whether a sun-worn credenza or hand-carved stool—adds layers of history. The key? Balancing eras and cultures for a cohesive yet eclectic aesthetic.
Scour flea markets for unique pieces
Elena Reygadas’ Mexico City home pairs antique Chesterfield sofas with rustic milking stools. For similar charm, hunt for 1970s teak credenzas or French armoires. Limewashing techniques revive distressed dressers, while Santos statues from Mexico add folkloric charm.
Pair mid-century with Moroccan stools
Kati Curtis’ projects showcase how Eames loungers shine beside Berber wool poufs. Try tulip tables with Indonesian benches or geodesic dome-inspired shelves. Pedro Friedeberg’s hand chairs become instant conversation starters.
- Pro tip: Display vintage trunks as coffee tables for functional design.
- Layer kilim rugs under MCM furniture to soften angular lines.
- Ethically sourced artisan pieces ensure sustainability.
5. Create a Jungle-Like Oasis with Plants
Greenery transforms any space into a lush sanctuary. Leafy companions add organic texture and purify the air—key for a boho home that feels alive. Start with Decorilla’s favorite fiddle leaf figs or Rita Donahoe’s banana leaf plants for dramatic foliage.
Palm trees and hanging pothos
Cluster monstera deliciosa with bird of paradise plants for tropical vibes. Kathryn M. Ireland’s designs prove tall palms frame seating areas beautifully. For smaller spaces, drape pothos vines from macramé hangers—their trailing leaves soften shelves and windows.
Artisan ceramic planters
Hand-thrown terracotta pots add earthy materials to the mix. Rita Chan Interiors layers different sizes for visual rhythm. Try concrete planters for succulents or driftwood displays for air plants—each piece feels like functional art.
- Use self-watering systems for low-maintenance care.
- Staghorn ferns mounted on wood create living wall art.
- Mix spider plants with philodendrons in bathrooms for humidity-loving greenery.
6. Hang Statement Lighting for Boho Drama
Statement fixtures anchor bohemian rooms with artistry and warmth. Lighting becomes a sculptural element, casting patterns that dance across textured walls and layered rugs. From hammered metal to handwoven fibers, each piece tells a story.
Moroccan lanterns or macramé pendants
Decorilla’s designers favor Moroccan lanterns for their dappled light—perfect over dining tables or bedside nooks. Carrie F.’s bronze pendants add a modern edge, while Schuyler Samperton’s macramé hanging chairs double as illuminated art.
Wicker chandeliers
Natural materials like rattan soften angular spaces. Charlap Hyman & Herrero’s dried grass lamps diffuse a golden glow, ideal for cozy corners. For DIY flair, string Turkish glass beads into fringe lampshades—Tina Ramchandani’s ceiling patterns inspire layered drama.
- Pro tip: Install hand-forged iron chandeliers from Marrakech for old-world charm.
- Tom Dixon’s Beat lights merge modern minimalism with boho style.
- Dimmer switches adjust ambiance from bright gatherings to candlelit evenings.
| Fixture Type | Best Placement | Designer Inspiration |
|---|---|---|
| Moroccan lanterns | Entryways, patios | Decorilla’s layered glow |
| Macramé pendants | Over beds, reading nooks | Schuyler Samperton’s knotted artistry |
| Wicker chandeliers | Dining rooms, sunrooms | Charlap Hyman’s organic textures |
7. Design a Global Gallery Wall
A gallery wall becomes a passport to global storytelling when curated thoughtfully. These displays blend personal journeys with cultural appreciation—each piece whispering tales of distant markets or family heirlooms. Decorilla designers recommend planning layouts with paper templates before hammering nails.
Mix maps, tribal masks, and travel souvenirs
Lari Pittman’s bold wallpaper backdrops prove contrasting elements create depth. Try pairing vintage botanical prints with Maasai beadwork necklaces—their vibrant colors pop against neutral walls. Shadow boxes preserve delicate items like Guatemalan worry dolls or Oaxacan wood carvings.
Use eclectic frames for contrast
Colleen Bashaw’s rattan mirror collages demonstrate how mixed materials add texture. Bleached wood frames complement gilt-edged oil paintings, while black iron borders modernize Batik fabric panels. Floating shelves break monotony with dimensional displays of ceramics or children’s global art projects.
- Frame antique maps with UV-protective glass to prevent fading
- Cluster small artworks in grid patterns for modern boho style
- Incorporate woven baskets as organic “frames” for textile art
- Reference Cece Bowman’s seaglass palette for coastal harmony
| Display Technique | Cultural Inspiration | Design Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Layered textiles | Moroccan souks | Adds tactile warmth |
| Asymmetrical grouping | Parisian flea markets | Creates casual elegance |
| Mixed frame finishes | Indonesian woodcarving | Enhances visual rhythm |
8. Add Bohemian Flair with Macramé and Fringe
Knots and fringes weave tactile magic into bohemian spaces. These handcrafted elements bring rhythm and warmth to walls, windows, and furnishings. From intricate wall hangings to playful tassels, each piece adds artisanal charm.
Wall hangings above beds or sofas
Decorilla’s designer projects showcase macramé as statement art. A large-scale piece above a bed frame creates a dreamy focal point. For sofas, Kathleen Whitaker’s plant hangers add vertical interest when grouped in trios.
Tasseled curtains or lampshades
Cortney Bishop’s signature textures prove fringe isn’t just for Southwestern style. Try:
- Leather tassels on linen curtain tiebacks
- Schumacher’s beaded trim on lampshade edges
- Suede fringe cascading from ottoman skirts
Justina Blakeney’s Modern Macramé book offers DIY patterns for beginners. For quick updates, drape vintage crochet tablecloths as temporary wall art. Semi-precious stone doorway beads catch light beautifully—perfect for sun-drenched entries.
These handwoven decor details transform rooms into tactile wonderlands. Whether you knot your own creation or source artisan pieces, macramé and fringe celebrate the boho spirit beautifully.
9. Layer Rugs for a Wanderlust-Inspired Floor
Layered rugs transform floors into a tapestry of travel memories. This technique adds texture and depth while anchoring the room’s boho vibe. Start with a neutral base—like jute or sisal—then build with patterned vintage finds.
Pair Persian rugs with cowhides
Annie Schlechter’s paprika-toned carpets prove earthy hues anchor eclectic spaces. Layer a Beni Ourain rug over jute for contrast, then add a zebra hide for organic edge. Tibetan wool carpets soften mid-century furniture, while bohemian rug layering thrives on mixing scales—try a small kilim atop a larger sisal.
Use non-slip underlays for safety
Comfort meets practicality with RugPadUSA’s grippy pads. These prevent slips while protecting hardwood floors. For rentals, FLOR tiles offer customizable patterns without commitment.
- Pro tip: Drape Navajo blankets seasonally for easy updates.
- Vintage sarong fabrics create bold borders on neutral rugs.
- Dash & Albert’s indoor/outdoor options withstand high-traffic areas.
Whether using John Robshaw’s stripes or Moroccan motifs, layered rugs invite feet to wander—just like the journeys that inspire them.
10. Infuse Global-Inspired Decor in the Living Room
Low-profile seating invites relaxation in a boho living room. This space thrives on layered textures and artisanal furniture—think wicker chairs from Jacques Grange or Chandra Greer’s vintage pillows. The result? A sunlit retreat with global vibe.
Low-slung seating and poufs
Decorilla designers recommend Moroccan leather poufs for flexible lounging. Pair with Serena & Lily’s rattan sectionals or a hammock chair like Elena Reygadas’ installation. These elements encourage barefoot comfort and conversation.
- Pro tip: Layer Anthropologie’s block-print ottomans as coffee tables.
- Nick Fouquet’s dome chairs add sculptural interest.
- West Elm’s modular systems adapt to small spaces.
Ethnic-patterned throw pillows
Kathryn Ireland’s red linen-velvet sofa pops with Oaxacan embroidered cushions. Mix ikat and batik prints for tactile contrast. For cohesion, anchor bold patterns with neutral walls or jute rugs.
| Piece | Designer Inspiration | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Leather poufs | Decorilla’s layered layouts | Adds flexible seating |
| Rattan sectionals | Serena & Lily’s organic style | Enhances airy feel |
| Embroidered pillows | Chandra Greer’s vintage finds | Introduces folk art |
Whether you choose hanging egg chairs or a patchwork floor spread, the living room becomes a canvas for global decor. Each piece tells a story—no passport required.
11. Craft a Boho-Chic Bedroom Retreat
A boho-chic bedroom blends dreamy aesthetics with laid-back comfort. This sanctuary thrives on sun-drenched linens, handwoven textiles, and organic materials that whisper relaxation. Designers like Liz Carroll showcase how moody palettes deepen the style’s warmth.
Canopy beds with sheer drapes
Decorilla’s designers transform sleeping spaces with floating linen canopies. These billowy cocoons filter morning light beautifully. For drama, extend ceiling tracks beyond the bed frame—Whitney Leigh Morris’ limewash walls amplify the effect.
Serena & Lily’s rattan headboards pair perfectly with macramé canopy nets. Add twinkling fairy lights for evening ambiance. The result? A nest-like retreat that balances airiness with intimacy.
Patchwork quilts and vintage linens
Layer Coyuchi’s organic cotton sheets with Block Shop Textiles’ quilted throws. At the foot of the bed, vintage kantha quilts add heritage charm. These hand-stitched pieces tell stories through their faded indigo patterns.
- Pro tip: Use Parachute’s linen duvet covers for breathable luxury
- Tiffany & Co. stained glass lamp replicas cast jewel-toned shadows
- Vintage lace pillow shams introduce delicate texture contrasts
Every element conspires to create a bedroom that feels both curated and effortlessly cozy. From the first morning stretch to midnight stargazing, this space becomes a personal haven.
12. Transform Your Bathroom into a Spa-Like Haven
Watercolor-washed walls and woven textures turn bathrooms into serene escapes. This space thrives on organic materials and tactile elements—think sun-drenched linens and hand-carved teak. The result? A retreat that pampers while reflecting boho charm.
Woven baskets for storage
Decorilla designers swear by rattan baskets for rolled towels and bath salts. Taize M.’s wood ladder displays add vertical design flair. For small spaces, CB2’s medicine cabinets merge function with artisan style.
Quick-drying Turkish towels
Hamam towels in indigo or saffron bring global decor to daily routines. Layer Sezane’s striped mats for contrast. Fireclay Tile’s zellige backsplashes reflect light like Moroccan courtyards.
- Pro tip: Hang eucalyptus bundles for aromatherapy steam.
- Teak shower benches resist moisture while adding warmth.
- Breeze Giannasio’s bamboo murals mimic tropical hideaways.
| Material | Best For | Brand Inspiration |
|---|---|---|
| Turkish cotton | Softness & absorbency | Decorilla’s layered spa look |
| Rattan | Storage & texture | CB2’s organic shapes |
| Teak | Humidity resistance | Schoolhouse’s minimalist racks |
From Aesop’s amber bottles to floating shelves, every detail cultivates calm. Whether you’re soaking or starting the day, this bathroom becomes a sanctuary.
13. Bring Boho Vibes to the Kitchen
Warm, textured layers transform utilitarian kitchens into inviting gathering spaces. This heart of the home shines when boho elements blend with functional design. Think open shelves displaying global ceramics and runner rugs softening hardwood floors.
Open shelving with global ceramics
Decorilla designers recommend Heath Ceramics’ hand-glazed dinnerware for organic style. Ben Pentreath’s English china collections add vintage charm when mixed with copper pots. Wrought iron racks keep essentials accessible while contributing to the collected-over-time aesthetic.
Montana Burnett’s veiny stone accents pair beautifully with Fireclay Tile’s recycled glass backsplash. For subtle contrast, Amber Interiors’ linen cafe curtains filter light softly.
Ikat or floral runner rugs
Serena Dugan’s natural fiber art inspires layered floor decor. Try:
- Marimekko’s bold floral dish towels as makeshift runners
- Schoolhouse Electric pendants over islands for ambient lighting
- Rejuvenation’s unlacquered brass hardware for patina development
Hand-carved wooden spoons displayed in terracotta pots add artisanal warmth. Every element works together to create a kitchen that feels both worldly and welcoming.
14. Use Natural Materials for Organic Warmth
Organic textures ground boho spaces with earthy authenticity. These materials—from weathered wood to hand-thrown clay—tell stories through their imperfections. Rita Chan’s projects showcase how natural elements create rooms that feel lived-in yet intentional.
Teak wood anchors the design
Decorilla designers recommend FSC-certified teak for dining tables and bed frames. Its honey tones deepen over time, like Carl Hansen’s iconic wishbone chairs. Cedar ceiling beams add aromatic warmth, while Serena & Lily’s rattan bar carts keep spaces airy.
Terracotta brings artisanal charm
East Fork’s hand-thrown pottery makes everyday meals feel special. Heath Ceramics’ planters showcase clay’s organic texture. For countertops, Vermont Castings’ soapstone develops a patina that whispers heritage.
- Bali’s carved wooden bowls display fruit with sculptural flair
- Bamboo window blinds filter light in leafy patterns
- Handwoven seagrass baskets from Mexico add storage style
| Material | Best Use | Designer Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Teak | Dining sets, headboards | Oil annually to maintain luster |
| Terracotta | Planters, tableware | Mix glazed and unglazed pieces |
| Rattan | Accent furniture | Pair with linen for contrast |
These design choices celebrate nature’s variations—no two pieces identical. Whether through grain patterns or finger marks in clay, each element adds soulful character to your decor.
15. Personalize with Travel Souvenirs and Heirlooms
Every journey leaves behind treasures that whisper stories—let them adorn your space. These collected elements transform rooms into living scrapbooks, blending charm with personal history. Kati Curtis’ design philosophy proves flea market finds become focal points when curated intentionally.
Display handmade pottery or textiles
Stacey Hill’s Mexican Santos statues demonstrate how folk art commands attention. Group sun-bleached postcards in mismatched frames for a gallery wall that feels casually elegant. That timeworn quilt from grandmother’s trunk? Hang it as a tapestry to showcase hand-stitched patterns.
Repurpose vintage trunks as tables
Steamer trunks with travel stickers become coffee tables with hidden storage. Try propping that Zanzibar chest as a media console—its carved panels add global design flair. Moroccan tea trays on hairpin legs make perfect side tables for mint tea service.
- Children’s artwork: Frame batik paintings from Bali trips with UV-protective glass
- Natural collections: Display seashells in shadow boxes with linen backdrops
- Functional heritage: Use inherited silverware in modern fruit bowls
| Item | Display Idea | Design Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Aboriginal paintings | Lean against shelves | Adds earthy style |
| Tibetan flags | Drape above doorways | Introduces movement |
| African drums | Convert to stool bases | Blends form and function |
Whether it’s Australian dot paintings or Oaxacan wood carvings, each piece adds layers of vintage charm. These soulful touches make a house feel authentically yours—no passport required.
Conclusion: Craft a Home That Tells Your Global Story
Every home tells a story—let yours reflect your adventures. The boho spirit thrives when spaces blend sun-faded textiles with hand-carved treasures. Start small: a single Moroccan lantern or inherited quilt can anchor a room’s vibe.
Embrace imperfections. Worn leather trunks and chipped ceramics add soul. Mix flea market finds with artisan-made decor for depth. Your home should feel lived-in, not staged.
Prioritize comfort over trends. Layer sheepskin rugs where you read, hang macramé where light dances. Thoughtful design evolves slowly, like a well-traveled journal.
Ready to begin? Let your personal style guide you. Whether it’s a Balinese mask or grandma’s embroidery, each piece whispers a story worth sharing.