Are you ready to give your living space a bohemian style but need some ideas to create your ideal boho space? No worries, we have all the tips and advice you’ll need for modern boho decor so you can create a chic living room with an authentic boho vibe.
Bohemian design has grown in popularity over the last 5 years, and I’ve watched boho style decor evolve dramatically. It’s so much easier to incorporate boho design into your home now, and the living room is the perfect place to begin.
In fact, it’s quite likely you choose some boho decor pieces without even realising it – I know I have in the last few years, so let’s look at what defines this style and how you can go about creating a bohemian decor living room.
What are the basics of boho decor?
Before we begin let’s be clear on what makes the bohemian look.
The boho look is categorised by an eclectic collection of natural textures, warm wood tones, large plants, white walls and natural colors. It’s inviting, warm and comfortable and should feel lived in. It’s definitely not sterile and minimal. I like to think of it as a mix of clean lines and soft textures on a simple backdrop with accents of bright color. It’s a design style that suits many people and is easy to achieve on both a luxury and more reduced budget.
35 Modern Bohemian Living Room Ideas You’ll Love
In this post I’ve pulled together some modern boho living room ideas that are easy to access and simple to achieve. You might thing you have to throw out your current pieces and revamp your entire living space, but creating a boho feel is much easier than you think and it’s most likely your current living room can be updated in a very easy way. Let’s dive in.
Here are 35 different Boho Living Room Ideas so good you’ll want to steal them for own home.
- String Lights for accent lighting
- Throw Blankets for comfort and texture
- Earthy Tones used in your flooring and accessories
- Natural Textiles throughout the room
- Vintage rugs or colorful patterned rugs
- Macrame wall hangings
- Rattan Accent Chair
- Tapestry or embroidered throw pillows
- Hanging plants or macrame plant hangers
- Moroccan-style lanterns or candle holders
- Wooden coffee table with a distressed finish
- Eclectic mix of patterned or textured throw blankets
- Oversized floor mirror with a decorative frame
- Ethnic-inspired artwork or tribal masks
- Low seating options like Moroccan-style floor sofas
- Handwoven baskets for storage or as wall decor
- Vintage or antique furniture pieces
- Beaded curtains or doorway bead strings
- Oversized floor pillows or bean bags
- Bohemian-inspired curtains with tassels or fringe
- Hanging dream catchers
- Natural elements like driftwood or branches as decorative accents
- Mix and match colorful or patterned accent chairs
- Vintage or antique trunks as coffee tables or storage
- Ethnic or tribal-inspired wall tapestries
- Hand-painted ceramic or terracotta pots for plants
- Hanging rattan or bamboo chairs
- Layered curtains with sheer fabrics and vibrant prints
- Ethnic or boho-inspired table lamps with intricate designs
- Draped canopy or mosquito netting above the seating area
- Fringed or textured ottomans or footstools
- Wall-mounted macrame shelves for displaying plants or decor
- Mix of mismatched, colorful vintage frames for displaying artwork or photographs
- Global-inspired textiles
- Natural fiber pendant lights
Now let’s look at some of the key ingredients for bohemian decor in more detail.
1. Boho Living Room Colors
Any boho living room needs a very simple color scheme, although some people choose to adopt an eclectic mix of colors. The color palette you choose should reflect your personality, and be one that you can live with easily.
I would avoid lots of bright colors and instead choose neutral colors as a base. It’s simple then to add flashes or color as you want – earthy tones work well, from oranges, to yellows, rust and browns.
In a modern boho living room scheme you could choose from the following:
- Neutral Palette: Start with a neutral base by using colors like white, cream, beige, or light gray for the walls and larger furniture pieces. These neutral tones create a clean and modern backdrop.
- Earthy Accents: Incorporate earthy accents in muted tones such as terracotta, rust, olive green, or mustard yellow. These colors add warmth and depth to the space while maintaining a modern aesthetic.
- Soft Pastels: Choose soft pastel shades like blush pink, baby blue, mint green, or lavender to infuse a touch of delicacy and femininity into the modern boho living room.
- Monochromatic Scheme: Opt for a monochromatic color scheme using various shades of a single color. For example, shades of gray, from light to charcoal, can create a sleek and sophisticated modern look with a boho twist.
- Pops of Jewel Tones: Introduce pops of jewel tones such as emerald green, deep sapphire blue, or rich amethyst purple. These vibrant hues can be used as accents in throw pillows, artwork, or decorative accessories to add drama and visual interest.
- Metallic Touches: Incorporate metallic elements like gold, silver, or brushed brass in light fixtures, decorative objects, or furniture legs. These metallic accents bring a modern and luxurious touch to the boho style.
- Black Accents: Add black accents sparingly for contrast and to anchor the space. Black can be introduced through frames, furniture legs, or in small decorative items.
The key is to strike a balance between the modern aesthetic and boho elements, using a color palette that feels cohesive and harmonious. Consider experimenting with different combinations and proportions to achieve the desired modern boho look that aligns with your personal style.
2. Rugs for a Bohemian Living Room
If you’ve chosen wooden flooring as many do in a boho inspired living room, you’ll probably want one or two area rugs to soften the look. These types of rugs have become very popular in recent years – we all remember that La Redoute rug which even had it’s own Instagram page!
Whilst you’ll find that normally, a boho living room won’t embrace colorful patterns, you can get away with it in a rug, just stick to shaggy styles or natural textures.
3. Boho Living Room Gallery Wall Ideas
I am a huge fan of wall art in my home and in a boho living room interior it’s fun to fill your walls with bold colors, natural textures and personal items.
Your boho gallery wall can be filled with any of the following:
- Macrame wall hangings: Add intricately woven macrame pieces in various sizes and designs to bring texture and bohemian charm to the wall.
- Vintage or antique frames: Look for ornate or distressed frames in different shapes and sizes to create an eclectic and vintage vibe.
- Botanical prints: Incorporate botanical prints or pressed flowers in frames for a touch of natural beauty and earthiness.
- Mirrors with decorative frames: Choose mirrors with unique or intricate frames to add visual interest and reflect light in the space.
- Feather or dreamcatcher wall decor: Hang feather decorations or dreamcatchers with boho-inspired designs to create a whimsical and dreamy atmosphere.
- Woven baskets or plates: Arrange woven baskets or plates on the wall for a textural element and a nod to boho aesthetics.
- Vintage posters or tapestries: Incorporate vintage-inspired posters or tapestries featuring bohemian patterns, motifs, or iconic figures.
- Handmade or embroidered art: Display handmade artwork, embroidery pieces, or fabric wall hangings for a personal touch and artisanal feel.
- Tribal masks or artifacts: Include tribal masks, artifacts, or symbolic pieces from different cultures to add an exotic and global touch to the gallery wall.
- Inspirational quotes or typography: Integrate framed quotes or typography art that reflects the free-spirited and positive ethos of the boho style.
Remember, the beauty of a boho gallery wall lies in its eclectic and individualistic nature, so feel free to mix and match these items according to your personal taste and style. Experiment with different arrangements and layers to create a visually captivating and meaningful display.
4. Boho Living Room Indoor Plants
Any boho decorated room is full of plants. There’s no getting way from it, you’re going to need an abundancy of greenery to pull of this look.
The lush green coloring against the white walls, bright accents, and bags of neutral textures add dimension and vibrancy – it’s a great way of bringing this look to life.
Bigger is better when it comes to your boho plants. Here are some suggestions of the types of plants that works well in a bohemian decorated living room.
- Fiddle Leaf Fig: This popular indoor tree has large, glossy leaves and adds a touch of tropical elegance to any space.
- Pothos: With its trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves, pothos is a versatile and low-maintenance plant that can be placed in hanging planters or displayed on shelves.
- Spider Plant: Known for its arching foliage and spider-like plantlets, the spider plant adds a lively and natural element to boho decor.
- Snake Plant: With its striking upright leaves, snake plants are both visually appealing and known for their air-purifying properties, making them a great addition to any boho living room.
- Monstera Deliciosa: This iconic plant features large, fenestrated leaves that add a tropical and dramatic flair to boho spaces.
- String of Pearls: This trailing succulent features cascading strings of small, round leaves, adding a unique and whimsical touch to boho decor.
- ZZ Plant: The ZZ plant is a hardy and low-maintenance plant with glossy, dark green leaves that can thrive in various lighting conditions, making it ideal for boho living rooms.
- Peace Lily: With its elegant white flowers and dark green foliage, the peace lily brings a serene and refreshing vibe to boho decor.
- Rubber Plant: The rubber plant has large, glossy leaves and is known for its ability to thrive in low-light conditions, making it a suitable choice for boho living rooms with limited natural light.
- Philodendron: With its heart-shaped leaves and trailing vines, philodendrons are versatile and easy-to-care-for plants that can be placed in hanging baskets or on shelves.
These plants not only add a touch of nature and greenery but also contribute to the relaxed and organic feel of a boho decor living room. Just make sure to consider the lighting and care requirements of each plant before selecting the ones that best suit your space.
5. Decorative Elements of a Boho Living Room
There are all kinds of boho elements you can incorporate into your living room, and these ideas are all about adding texture, color and comfort to the space.
Here is a list of modern boho accessories you could include in your living room space:
- Colorful tapestries or wall hangings: Add vibrant and patterned textiles to the walls as a focal point of the room.
- Moroccan-style lanterns: Hang or place lanterns with intricate designs and colorful glass panels to create a boho ambiance and provide soft, warm lighting.
- Macrame plant hangers: Use macrame plant hangers to display colorful and trailing plants, adding texture and visual interest to the space.
- Kilim or Persian rugs: Lay down colorful rugs with bold patterns and rich hues to anchor the room and add a bohemian touch.
- Eclectic mix of throw pillows: Incorporate a variety of colorful throw pillows with different patterns, textures, and sizes to add comfort and vibrancy to the seating areas.
- Floor cushions or poufs: Place floor cushions or poufs covered in colorful and textured fabrics to provide extra seating and create a relaxed atmosphere.
- Woven baskets: Use woven baskets as both functional storage solutions and decorative elements, incorporating various colors and sizes to enhance the boho feel.
- String lights or fairy lights: Hang string lights or fairy lights around the room to create a soft and cozy atmosphere, especially during the evening.
- Decorative mirrors with ornate frames: Choose mirrors with unique and decorative frames that add a boho touch while reflecting light and visually expanding the space.
- Colorful ceramic or glass vases: Display vases in different shapes and sizes, featuring vibrant colors or interesting textures, to showcase fresh or dried flowers.
- Beaded curtains: Install beaded curtains in doorways or as room dividers to bring a playful and boho vibe to the living room.
- Tassel garlands or wall hangings: Hang tassel garlands or wall hangings with colorful threads and tassels to create a whimsical and boho-inspired feature.
- Floor lamps with textured shades: Use floor lamps with fabric shades that have interesting textures, patterns, or colors to provide soft and ambient lighting.
- Ceramic or rattan decorative objects: Place decorative objects such as ceramic vases, bowls, or rattan sculptures on shelves or coffee tables to add artistic and boho elements to the space.
These decorative accessories will contribute to the modern boho aesthetic, incorporating colorful textiles, throw pillows, boho interiors, floor pillows, and soft lighting to create a stylish and inviting living room.
Adding rattan and wicker accessories from baskets to light shades and plant pots. The use of natural materials is crucial to the boho room and helps create the free-spirited style we are striving for.
6. The Boho Living Room Coffee Table
No boho look is complete in a living space without the perfect boho coffee table!
In a modern boho living room, the coffee table should ideally feature a few key elements. First, it should have an eclectic design, incorporating mixed materials like wood, metal, or rattan. This blend of textures adds visual interest and complements the boho style’s emphasis on natural elements.
Second, the coffee table should provide ample surface area for both practical and decorative purposes. It should offer enough space for placing books, trays, candles, and other boho-inspired decor items.
Additionally, incorporating storage features, such as drawers or shelves, can be beneficial in a modern boho living room. These storage options help keep the space organized and provide a place to store items like remote controls, magazines, or extra throw blankets.
Lastly, incorporating unique and eye-catching details, such as intricate carvings, geometric patterns, or pops of color, can elevate the coffee table’s aesthetic appeal and make it a statement piece within the room.
Overall, the coffee table in a modern boho living room serves as a focal point, bringing together functionality, style, and a touch of bohemian flair. It enhances the overall design and provides a surface for both everyday use and showcasing decorative elements that reflect the individual’s personal style and love for eclectic aesthetics.
Can you give a small living room a Boho decor feel?
To give a small living room a modern boho interior, try following these tips and design ideas:
- Light and Neutral Walls: Opt for light and neutral wall colors such as white, cream, or soft gray. These shades help create an airy and open atmosphere, making the room appear more spacious.
- Natural Light: Maximize natural light by keeping windows uncovered or using sheer curtains. Natural light enhances the boho aesthetic and creates a fresh and inviting ambiance.
- Multifunctional Furniture: Choose furniture that serves multiple purposes, such as a sofa with built-in storage or a coffee table that can be used as extra seating. This helps maximize space while providing functionality.
- Minimalistic Approach: Embrace a more minimalistic approach to avoid clutter in a small space. Focus on a few key furniture pieces and decor items that truly capture the essence of modern boho style.
- Low Furniture: Opt for low-profile furniture pieces like floor sofas, modular seating, or low coffee tables. These create a sense of openness and allow for better flow in the small living room.
- Layered Textiles: Introduce various textures and patterns through layered textiles. Use colorful and patterned throw pillows, textured rugs, and blankets to add visual interest and create a cozy boho vibe.
- Vertical Storage: Utilize vertical space by incorporating tall bookshelves or wall-mounted shelving units. These provide storage for books, plants, and decorative objects, reducing clutter on the floor.
- Plants and Greenery: Introduce indoor plants and greenery to bring life and a natural element to the space. Choose low-maintenance plants that don’t overwhelm the limited space, such as small potted plants or hanging plants.
- Mirrors for Depth: Hang mirrors strategically to create an illusion of depth and amplify the natural light in the room. Mirrors also reflect the boho decor elements, adding a touch of glamour and enhancing the overall aesthetic.
- Personalized Touches: Incorporate personal touches and unique decor items that reflect your individual style and interests. These can be handmade artworks, travel souvenirs, or vintage finds that contribute to the boho charm.
What are the basics of boho decor?
Boho decor is characterized by its eclectic and free-spirited nature, incorporating vibrant colors, layered textiles, and a mix of global and vintage elements. It embraces a relaxed and organic aesthetic, celebrating individuality, and creating a cozy and bohemian-inspired atmosphere.
What is a boho style living room?
A boho style living room is a space that embraces the bohemian aesthetic, characterized by a mix of vibrant colors, eclectic patterns, and a relaxed, free-spirited atmosphere. It often includes elements such as layered textiles, natural materials, plants, and an abundance of decorative accessories, creating a warm and inviting space that reflects individuality and creativity.
15 Essentials for a Boho Living Room Decor
There are many aspects to a modern boho living room design, but some features should never be overlooked. If you want to start your boho interior design with a bang, you should always include elements from this list of essentials.
- Rattan Accent Chair
- Vintage Rug
- Indoor House Plants
- String Lights
- Floor Cushions
- Throw Blankets
- Earthy Tones
- Natural Textiles
- White Walls
- Wicker Baskets
- Wall Hangings
- Bamboo mirrors
- Coffee table
- Chalky pastels
- Wall gallery
Where to shop for Boho Decor and Home Accessories
If you’re just starting out decorating your boho living room, there are a few things to take into consideration. I’ve made a list to help you get started:
- Understand the Boho Aesthetic: Familiarize yourself with the key characteristics of the boho style, such as its eclectic and free-spirited nature, use of vibrant colors, layered textiles, and natural elements. This will help you grasp the essence of the modern boho aesthetic.
- Explore Inspirational Sources: Look for inspiration from various sources such as interior design magazines, websites, social media platforms (like Pinterest or Instagram), and even books dedicated to boho or eclectic interior design. Save or bookmark images that resonate with your vision.
- Identify Key Elements: Take note of the common elements found in modern boho living rooms, such as specific furniture styles, color schemes, patterns, textures, and decorative accessories. This will help you create a cohesive design plan.
- Research Furniture and Decor: Look for furniture pieces, such as sofas, accent chairs, coffee tables, and storage solutions, that align with the modern boho style. Research where to find these items, both online and in physical stores. Explore options for rugs, textiles, lighting fixtures, and other decorative elements.
- Consider Space and Layout: Assess your living room’s size, layout, and natural lighting. Determine how to maximize the available space while maintaining a harmonious flow. Explore ideas for furniture placement, storage solutions, and ways to incorporate boho elements without overwhelming the room.
- DIY and Upcycling: Consider DIY projects or upcycling ideas to add a personal touch and stay within budget. Look for tutorials or ideas on how to create boho-inspired decor pieces, such as macrame plant hangers, painted furniture, or customized artwork.
- Budget and Prioritize: Determine your budget for the project and establish your priorities. Decide which aspects of the modern boho decor are most important to you and allocate resources accordingly.
- Collect Samples and Swatches: If possible, collect samples of fabrics, paint colors, and materials that you are considering for your modern boho living room. This will help you visualize how different elements will work together.
- Consider Sustainability: Keep sustainability in mind by opting for eco-friendly materials, vintage or second-hand furniture, and supporting brands that prioritize ethical and sustainable practices.
- Consult with Professionals: If needed, consult with interior designers or decorators who specialize in boho or eclectic styles. They can provide valuable insights, suggestions, and help bring your vision to life.
The following stores are great for browsing and identifying boho furniture and accessories for your living room style.
- Urban Outfitters
- La Redoute
- Zara Home
- H&M Home
- Dunelm
- Amazon
- Etsy
- Ebay
- Charity Shops
- Not on the High Street
- Maison du Monde (not in the UK anymore sadly)
Remember when you’re researching for that perfect boho piece, you’ll want to use a variety of adjectives – different stores use different language – so here’s a useful list and description for each term to help you identify what you need:
- Rattan: Rattan refers to a type of climbing palm vine that is used to create furniture and decorative items. It is known for its natural and lightweight properties, making it a popular choice for boho and tropical-inspired designs.
- Moroccan: Moroccan refers to anything associated with the country of Morocco. In terms of design, it often incorporates rich patterns, vibrant colors, and intricate details influenced by Moroccan architecture and traditional craftsmanship.
- Kilim: Kilim is a type of flat-woven rug or tapestry traditionally made in parts of the Middle East, North Africa, and Central Asia. It features geometric patterns, bold colors, and is often used as a decorative element in boho and eclectic interiors.
- Wicker: Wicker refers to the technique of weaving natural materials, such as rattan, cane, or willow, to create furniture or decorative items. Wicker pieces often have a light and airy feel, adding texture and a bohemian touch to a space.
- Artisan: An artisan is a skilled craftsperson who creates handmade items using traditional techniques. Artisan-made products often have unique and intricate details, showcasing the craftsmanship and individuality of the maker.
- Rustic: Rustic refers to a design style that celebrates a rough, natural, and organic aesthetic. It often incorporates elements such as weathered wood, earthy tones, and textures inspired by nature, creating a cozy and down-to-earth atmosphere.
- Boho: Boho is a shortened term for bohemian, which refers to a style characterized by a free-spirited and non-conformist approach to design. It embraces a mix of eclectic patterns, vibrant colors, natural elements, and a relaxed, artistic vibe.
- Bohemian: Bohemian refers to an artistic and unconventional lifestyle. In terms of design, it encompasses a mix of global influences, vibrant colors, rich textures, and an emphasis on self-expression and individuality.
- Eclectic: Eclectic refers to a design style that combines elements from various sources and periods to create a unique and cohesive whole. It celebrates the mixing of different styles, colors, patterns, and textures, resulting in a visually dynamic and personalized space.
- Modern Boho: Modern boho refers to a contemporary interpretation of the bohemian style. It incorporates elements of the boho aesthetic while embracing a cleaner and more streamlined approach. It often combines eclectic patterns, natural materials, and vibrant colors with modern furniture and minimalist touches.
- Earthy: Earthy refers to colors, textures, or materials that are reminiscent of nature. It often includes hues like browns, greens, terracotta, and natural textures like wood, stone, or woven fibers, creating a grounded and organic feel.
- Global: Global refers to a design style that draws inspiration from various cultures and regions around the world. It incorporates elements such as textiles, patterns, and decorative items that reflect different cultural aesthetics and traditions.
- Tribal: Tribal refers to design elements or motifs inspired by indigenous or traditional cultures. It often includes bold geometric patterns, natural materials, and handmade crafts that celebrate the cultural heritage of specific tribes or communities.
What to read next:
If you’re looking for specific Boho Bedroom decor tips, I’ve got an article on How to Create the Boho Bedroom which answers all your questions, beautiful Boho Office Decor for stylish home working and brilliant Boho Bathroom decor ideas.
SAVE THIS TO PINTEREST TO FIND AGAIN LATER:
Jen is an interiors writer and blogger and has an insatiable love of home style and decor
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