5 ways to embrace ‘Local Boho’ in your home
The laidback, colourful look of the Bohemian style has always been popular, and a modern take on this breezy and relaxed look is set to become the next interior design trend.
Along with the nostalgic feel of the original style, this modern version brings with it some extra polish and an emphasis on quality.
“We call this look ‘Local Boho’, and it’s a soulful celebration of creativity, nostalgia and unpretentious home style – the very antithesis of harsh minimalism,” interior stylist and Carpet Court ambassador Heather Nette King says.
According to trend forecasters from Carpet Court, we can expect to see ‘Local Boho’ come to the fore in 2022 and 2023, bringing with it plenty of colour, simple styling, and natural materials.
“With roots in the slow movement and natural living philosophies, it’s about decorating
your home to reflect your personal journey rather than following any prescriptive rules or decorating dos and don’ts,” Nette King says.
“Classic boho is often a riot of colour and pattern, whereas this new iteration is more considered. Warm, earthy hues on the floors and walls form a cosy, neutral backdrop. This palette welcomes furniture in natural materials, such as timber and rattan, and fabrics and art in shades of green, blue and coral. Styling is simple – pieces are given room to breathe to showcase their shape and texture.”
If you’re looking to embrace ‘Local Boho’ in your own home, Nette King says there are some key things to consider.
1. Forget the rules
While replicating trends can come with plenty of rules, pulling off the ‘Local Boho’ style involves unleashing your inner creative.
“So many home owners fear getting it wrong or believe these trends won’t work in their homes,” Nette King tells OverSixty.
“Remember that ‘supposed to’ can be one of the most restricting phrases when it comes to interior design. So instead, embrace the whimsy and feel confident in creating an interior that’s unique to you.”
With this flexibility, Nette King says this look can suit any architectural style, from beachy coastal homes to contemporary apartments.
2. Choose four or five key colours
Even though ‘anything goes’, Nette King says somewhat restricting the colours you’re working can help - but stresses that there is no right or wrong colour scheme to work with.
“Loosely limiting your colour palette will give your room a sense of cohesion - but don’t worry if a couple more shades sneak in - anomalies will only add to the magic with this look!” she explains.
“Interior colour selections are highly subjective, which means there’s no right or wrong way to select a colour scheme for your space. The most important consideration is finding a palette that feels right to you, using shades that beautifully reflect your personal style.”
3. Mix vintage and contemporary pieces
The boho look is all about personality and an eclectic feel, and mixing pieces from different eras is a perfect way to achieve it - but there is an art to it.
“A room full of antiques will look like a museum, so anchor the space with a modern item such as a sofa, desk or dining table, then add layers of character with curated pieces,” Nette King suggests.
4. Play with opposing textures
Unlike other looks, boho embraces clashing patterns and textures - think anything from linen and velvet to rattan and metallic touches - which Nette King says add warmth to your interiors.
“Texture adds warmth and a tactile connection to objects in your home,” she explains. “Without it, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a flat room which is why it’s a design trick worth getting on board with. Check that your elements play nice together and you’ll go far in your efforts to create a more multidimensional look.”
5. Add interest to walls
While furnishings and floorings are important for achieving this look, you don’t want to overlook the space on your walls either.
“Those empty walls are filled with possibilities,” Nette King says.
“Photographs from your travels, woven wall hangings and colourful art are perfect for adding character and depth to your modern boho scheme.
“With this style you can really amp them up to bring out your personality and taste.”
Images: Supplied