Boho interiors are all about layering patterns, textures, and colours to create a space that feels personal and inviting. This style thrives on mixing global influences, earthy tones, and natural materials to tell a story through design. Whether you're styling a bold tribal rug with soft velvet cushions or blending floral prints with geometric patterns, the key is balance. Here are the essentials:
- Colour Palette: Start with earthy tones like terracotta or beige, and add accents in jewel tones (emerald, sapphire) or coastal hues (blue, white).
- Textures: Combine rough materials like jute or rattan with soft fabrics like velvet or wool. Layer rugs, throws, and cushions for depth.
- Prints: Blend tribal, floral, and geometric patterns. Use a hero print to guide your palette and vary the scale of patterns for harmony.
- Personal Touches: Incorporate travel keepsakes, handmade items, or vintage finds for a lived-in feel.
Boho design isn’t about perfection - it’s about creating a relaxed, layered look that reflects your story. Let your instincts guide you as you mix and match textures, prints, and colours to craft a space that feels like home.
Boho Interior Design Guide: Color Palettes, Textures, and Print Mixing Rules
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Choosing the Right Colour Palette
The right colour palette acts as the glue that brings together an eclectic mix of prints and textures. The colours you select become the subtle link that ensures bold patterns work in harmony. Interior design writer Lauren Flanagan explains it perfectly:
"white walls are used as backdrops for richer tones and give the eyes a place to rest in a colourfully exuberant and diverse room".
By balancing vibrant colours with calming neutrals, you can create a boho space that feels cohesive rather than chaotic. This thoughtful balance provides the foundation for exploring specific boho-inspired colour schemes.
Popular Boho Colour Schemes
Boho design offers a variety of colour schemes to suit different moods:
- Desert-inspired tones: Think terracotta, burnt orange, rust, mustard yellow, and olive green. These earthy shades create a warm, grounded vibe.
- Jewel tones for contrast: Deep emerald greens, sapphire blues, and rich ruby reds layered over sandy beiges and warm browns add drama and sophistication.
- Coastal palettes: For a more tranquil setting, soft baby blues, deep indigos, and crisp whites evoke the calming essence of the Mediterranean.
- High-energy combinations: Fiery reds, electric yellows, and tropical greens bring a lively, dynamic energy to any space.
Creating Balance with Colour
To prevent visual overload, start with a 'hero' print that incorporates both earthy base tones and vibrant accents. Limit additional accent colours to two or three to keep the look focused and harmonious. Megan Clarke, Senior Designer at Liberty Fabrics, emphasises the importance of this:
"It's colour above all else that ties prints together".
A unified colour strategy enhances the interplay of textures and patterns. Begin by identifying your hero print - perhaps a striking rug or a bold cushion - and pull complementary colours from it to build a cohesive palette. Even if you're mixing seemingly unrelated patterns, ensuring they share at least one colour creates an instant sense of connection.
Layering Textures for Depth and Warmth
Once your colour palette is set, it's time to bring the room to life with texture. Texture takes a space from flat and uninspiring to tactile and inviting. In boho design, layering textiles plays a central role, adding depth and creating a lived-in, welcoming vibe. The trick is in the contrasts - think of pairing rough, natural materials like rattan or stone with the softness of velvet or silk. This interplay creates a visual and tactile richness that colour alone can't achieve.
Natural elements like jute, seagrass, and raw wood bring an earthy, grounded feel, while softer materials like chunky wool knits, sheepskin, and velvet add the cosy warmth that makes boho interiors so irresistible. Let’s dive into some of the go-to textures for this style.
Common Boho Textures
The textures you choose shape the feel of your space. Handmade elements like macramé, crochet, and hand-thrown pottery bring a personal, artisanal quality. Rattan and wicker add intricate yet lightweight textures, perfect for furniture like chairs, headboards, or side tables. For rugs and wall hangings, materials like jute and hessian offer a rugged, natural appeal, while velvet provides a touch of plush elegance in cushions or accent chairs. Linen is ideal for soft, breathable bedding or airy curtains, and wool or sheepskin delivers chunky warmth through throws or shag rugs. Leather, particularly in Moroccan pouffes or vintage armchairs, adds a smooth, aged charm. With these materials, you can layer textures to create a harmonious, inviting space.
How to Layer Textures
Start with the foundation - your flooring. Layer a smaller Persian or kilim rug over a larger, neutral jute or sisal rug to create a striking focal point. On your sofa, mix and match scales by combining a chunky knit throw with finer linen cushions. Don’t forget vertical surfaces - macramé wall hangings or woven baskets can add texture and interest to blank walls. Balance these softer elements with rougher finishes like terracotta, raw clay, or weathered wood for contrast. To keep the look cohesive, stick to a complementary colour palette. This ensures the mix of textures feels harmonious rather than chaotic.
Mixing Prints with Confidence
After exploring textures, it’s time to bring prints into the mix to give your boho décor an extra dose of character and energy. Prints, when used thoughtfully, can elevate a space, creating a look that feels curated and worldly rather than chaotic. The trick lies in balancing bold patterns with softer ones, like pairing tribal designs with florals or geometric prints with botanical motifs. Let’s dive into the types of prints that embody the boho aesthetic and how to blend them seamlessly.
Common Boho Prints
Boho design is all about drawing inspiration from around the globe, and its prints reflect this rich diversity. Here are some key styles to consider:
- Tribal patterns: Think Aztec, Ikat, and Suzani designs. These bold, intricate patterns are perfect for rugs, throws, or statement cushions, adding a sense of adventure and a well-travelled vibe.
- Floral and botanical prints: Large-scale blooms on curtains or delicate leaf motifs on bedding bring a touch of nature and softness to the room.
- Geometric patterns: Stripes, triangles, and Moroccan tile-inspired designs add structure and a modern edge, creating a crisp contrast to more organic shapes.
- Artisan prints: Handcrafted styles like tie-dye, batik, or block prints highlight craftsmanship and cultural influences, making them ideal for textiles like throws or wall hangings.
Each print type contributes something unique to your décor, and understanding their characteristics will help you combine them effortlessly.
Pattern Mixing Guidelines
Mixing prints can feel intimidating, but following a few simple rules can make the process much easier. First, stick to a consistent colour palette. Textile designer Rebecca Atwood suggests keeping your colours tight, as this unifies different patterns and styles: “Keep your colour palette tight to unite different styles and patterns”. For example, if your tribal rug, floral cushions, and geometric throw all share two or three core colours, the result will feel cohesive.
Next, focus on varying the scale of your patterns. Use one large-scale "hero" print alongside medium and smaller-scale patterns. Interiors expert Vanessa Arbuthnott advises limiting yourself to just one large-scale design: “Limit yourself to one large scale fabric design”. Smaller patterns can act as subtle textures, creating balance without overwhelming the eye.
Another helpful guideline is the 40-60 rule. Designers suggest that 40% to 60% of your room can feature patterns, with the rest in solids or neutral tones. This ensures the space doesn’t feel too busy and gives the eye some breathing room. Spread patterns evenly across the room - think cushions, rugs, wall art, and curtains - to create a natural flow. Charlotte Olby of Liberty London recommends varying print sizes and incorporating plain colours for balance: “It’s calmer on the eye to sit big patterns… with little florals, varying the sizes of your prints in the mix and giving pause with plain colour”.
If you’re new to mixing prints, start small. Experiment with throw pillows or drape vintage textiles over furniture to see how patterns interact in the room’s natural light. Plants with variegated leaves can also act as “living prints,” blending beautifully with boho décor and connecting your textiles to nature. These organic elements add depth and harmony, making your space feel effortlessly stylish.
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Styling Tips for Your Boho Home
Dive into the world of boho style and transform any room into a haven of eclectic charm. Whether you’re creating a gallery wall in the living room or layering cosy textiles in the bedroom, the trick lies in blending functionality with that effortlessly laid-back vibe. Let’s explore some room-specific tips to help you tie your boho home together.
Gallery Walls and Art Prints
A boho-inspired gallery wall is all about mixing textures, patterns, and personal touches. Combine framed art prints - think botanical sketches or abstract pieces - with textured items like macramé hangings, wicker hats, or Moroccan-style plates. For a unique twist, check out OMG Kitty, a UK-based shop offering hand-designed, sustainably made boho art prints in various sizes.
To keep your gallery wall cohesive, stick to a unified colour palette. If you’re using bold, vibrant prints, balance them out with neutral textures like woven straw or raw wood frames. Experiment with frame materials - natural wood, black, white, and even metallic finishes like gold or copper can work together beautifully for a curated, layered look. Interior design expert Elimar Lobo Sáenz emphasises the importance of creating a harmonious space:
"This year's aim is to express a message of strength and hopefulness to create a synergy between cosiness, functionality and the sense of comfort".
When arranging your artwork, aim for balance. For example, if you’re placing art above a sofa, it should span about two-thirds to three-quarters of the sofa’s width for the best visual impact. Before committing to nail holes, use paper tape to map out your arrangement on the wall. This lets you tweak the layout until it feels just right. Don’t shy away from hanging textiles directly on the wall - vintage rugs, embroidered scarves, or large fabric panels can make stunning focal points. For added depth, layer smaller elements like mirrors or woven baskets over these textile hangings.
Textiles in the Bedroom and Living Room
While gallery walls set the tone, textiles bring warmth and comfort to your boho home. In the bedroom, start with your bedding. Mix and match materials - pair chunky knit throws with hand-loomed linen sheets, and add embroidered cushions alongside velvet or silk accents. Combining fabrics of varying weights creates a rich, layered look that’s both visually and tactilely appealing.
In the living room, spread patterned textiles across the space rather than clustering them in one spot. Drape throws over the sofa, add patterned cushions, and consider a textured rug to anchor the room. To avoid overwhelming the space, balance bold prints with solid-coloured elements like natural wood furniture or woven straw accents.
For a creative touch in the bedroom, think of textiles as art. Hang Afghan throws, colourful tapestries, or lace fabrics above your headboard as an alternative to traditional wall art. You can even drape hand-loomed linens or embroidered fabrics from bedposts to create a cosy, canopy-like effect.
Global-Inspired Accents
Boho style thrives on a well-travelled, collected-over-time aesthetic. Incorporating global-inspired accents is a great way to add personality and authenticity to your space. Look for tie-dyed ikat fabrics from Cambodia, embroidered suzani from Central Asia, or sari-inspired prints from India to bring in playful patterns. Beyond textiles, natural materials like rattan furniture, wicker baskets, jute rugs, and seagrass pieces add organic texture and a worldly feel.
For wall décor, explore African abstract prints, dot tribal patterns, mandalas, or Chinoiserie-inspired art to bridge different cultural influences. Designer Justina Blakeney suggests:
"Discovering your spirit environment [such as the jungle, beach, or desert] can help to learn the colours, scents, textures, and sounds that light you up and make you feel your best".
Lighting is another essential element. Swap out harsh overhead fixtures for softer options like lanterns, candles, or floor lamps to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Personalise your space with travel souvenirs - vintage bottles, sculptures, maps, or mismatched china can all add character and tell a story. Keep your walls mostly white to provide a clean backdrop for these vibrant, global accents, allowing the space to feel curated yet relaxed, as though assembled over years of exploration and discovery.
Sustainability and Personalisation in Boho Design
Boho design has always been about layering textures, colours, and stories. Now, it's evolving to include sustainability and personal storytelling as central elements. The idea of "slow homeware" is gaining traction, encouraging people to invest in durable, high-quality pieces instead of fleeting, mass-produced décor. A modern take on the style, often called "minimalist boho", embraces eco-friendly materials and ethical production methods while preserving the warmth and individuality that define the look.
Supporting Small Businesses
Opting for made-to-order products is a smart way to reduce waste compared to traditional mass production. For instance, OMG Kitty, a Birmingham-based studio in the UK, crafts each print sustainably upon request. With over 200 five-star reviews on Trustpilot, customers rave about the paper's excellent quality and the personalised service. By choosing independent artisans, you add a layer of uniqueness and craftsmanship to your space. OMG Kitty's prints start at £24.00 and come in sizes ranging from A4 to A1, with tracked worldwide shipping available.
Collaborating with local printing partners for made-to-order items can cut carbon emissions by up to 67% compared to standard mass-production practices. Brands like OMG Kitty also prioritise premium materials, using 210gsm to 230gsm archival matte paper for durability and vibrant colours that stand the test of time. These sustainable choices naturally align with the boho ethos, inviting more personal expression into your home.
Adding a Personal Touch
Personalisation is at the heart of boho design, transforming your home into a reflection of your life and values. As interior décor writer Lauren Flanagan explains:
"The only rule is that every item in the room should share something about you".
To make your space uniquely yours, mix contemporary art prints with family heirlooms, travel keepsakes, and vintage treasures. Upcycling can also be a creative way to add personality - think of turning an old ladder into shelving or repurposing vintage crates as storage. Start with a few standout items, like meaningful art prints, cosy throws, or cushions that resonate with your story. Instead of filling every corner with generic décor, focus on pieces that hold meaning and reflect your journey.
Conclusion
Boho style isn’t about following strict guidelines - it’s about embracing your story and expressing it through design. As Caitlin Monesmith from Lulus puts it:
"To put strict rules on boho would totally undermine this aesthetic; all you need is a sense of curiosity and self-expression".
Start with a neutral base in earthy tones, then build on it by layering contrasting textures. Picture plush velvet paired with rough rattan, or smooth linen next to chunky macramé. This contrast adds both depth and warmth to your space.
Balance doesn’t mean playing it safe. Instead, it’s about thoughtfully combining patterns and tones to avoid overwhelming the eye while still keeping things visually interesting.
What makes boho stand out is its emphasis on visual storytelling. Frieda Gormley from House of Hackney explains it perfectly:
"I see pattern as a chance to imbue a space with personality".
At its heart, boho is about creative freedom. If something feels true to you, it belongs. Select pieces that reflect your journey, layer them with intention, and trust your instincts. The result? A space that’s not just stylish but deeply personal, celebrating both your individuality and the sustainable principles woven into boho design.
FAQs
How can I select the perfect standout print for my boho-inspired space?
Selecting a standout or 'hero' print is a game-changer when it comes to nailing a cohesive boho aesthetic. This single piece will anchor the entire room’s design, shaping the colours, patterns, and textures you incorporate. Look for something that feels handcrafted and globally inspired - like a botanical illustration, a celestial motif, or a bold paisley design - to capture the eclectic, earthy vibe that defines boho style.
Here are some tips to help you pick the perfect hero print:
- Align with your style and the room’s purpose: Choose vibrant, energising designs for social spaces like the living room, while softer, more muted tones work beautifully in restful areas like bedrooms.
- Consider wall space and colour balance: Stick to the 60-30-10 rule for colour distribution - let your hero print take up 60% of the visual impact, with complementary tones and accents filling in the rest.
- Mix in textures and natural elements: Pair your print with textured fabrics such as linen or woven rugs to create depth and a relaxed, layered look.
When you pick a print that speaks to your personal style and blends seamlessly with your space, you’ll create a stunning focal point that pulls your entire boho-inspired room together.
How can I layer textures effectively in a boho-style interior?
Layering textures is the secret to creating a warm and inviting boho-inspired interior. Begin with a neutral foundation, like an earthy-toned wall or a lightly textured plaster finish. From there, introduce mid-weight fabrics - think woven throws, chunky knit cushions, or a hand-woven rug - to bring in depth and a sense of comfort. For added character, mix in rougher materials such as macramé wall hangings, reclaimed-wood frames, or fringe-edged pouffes to give the space a relaxed, tactile quality.
To tie everything together, stick to the 60-30-10 colour guideline: 60% neutral tones, 30% dominant shades, and 10% accent colours. When layering textures, start with smooth surfaces, then add medium-textured fabrics, and finally finish with the most tactile pieces. For a unique touch, incorporate boho-style prints from OMG Kitty. These vibrant, sustainably crafted designs look stunning framed in reclaimed wood or displayed unframed for a laid-back, artistic vibe. Complete the look with a gallery wall, a mix of potted plants, and layered rugs to achieve a curated yet effortlessly cosy atmosphere.
How can I mix boho prints and textures without making my space feel cluttered?
To mix boho prints and textures effectively, begin with a cohesive colour palette. Opt for warm neutrals like cream, sand, or muted olive as your base, and introduce bold accents such as terracotta or deep teal. Make sure each print includes at least one of these tones to tie the look together. Use a larger piece as your focal point and complement it with smaller prints to keep the design balanced and avoid overwhelming the space.
Add depth and softness by incorporating textures like macramé wall hangings, woven rugs, or linen cushions. Combine bold patterns with neutral frames or solid-coloured textiles to give the eye a place to rest. Spread artwork evenly throughout the room, leaving a few centimetres of space between pieces to maintain an airy, curated vibe.
For boho-inspired art prints, OMG Kitty offers hand-designed, sustainably made options in sizes ranging from A4 to A1. With framed or unframed choices and free UK delivery on orders over £10, it’s simple to create a well-balanced and cohesive gallery wall.