Channel your inner hippie: Layer vivid hues, piles of patterns, far-out forms, and handcrafted accents to build a striking Sixties-hip boho chamber.
Wonderfully eclectic, cheerfully chic, and always original, boho spaces speak to independent thinkers with an affinity for unconventional designs. In the final phase of our three-step makeover (see phase 1 and phase 2 here) the outlook relies on a fine-tuned fusion of psychedelic colors, vintage finds, punchy patterns, and global references.
A thoughtful distribution of harmonizing printed fabrics, tiers of neutral textiles, and a medley of sculptural furnishings ensure that the overall space pleases the eye while indulging a gypsy decorator’s free-spirited soul.
A vintage Moroccan wedding blanket adds a highly textured layer on the vividly patterned bedding.
The mid-tone pink wall color is weighty enough to stand on its own while spotlighting the dark-finished nightstand (made up of a vintage packing case and carpenter’s toolbox), a privacy-screen headboard, deeper-toned fabrics, flashy ottomans, and shapely flourishes.
Create a headboard from an old screen (seen here), a bed frame, fireplace surround, even an old door with this easy distressing technique.
Gather Your Materials
- A furniture piece
- Scrub brush
- Toothbrush
- Bucket
- Mild detergent and water
- Liquid sander or deglosser
- 120-grit sandpaper
- 220-grit sandpaper
- Tack cloth or rag
- Wood stain or antiquing gel, in the color of your choice
- Foam brushes
Step 1 Clean it up. Brush dust and dirt buildup from furniture surfaces, frames, and corners. Clean with soapy water and a soft rag. Wipe with clear water to remove soapy residue. Let dry. Remove glossy finishes with a liquid sander or deglosser.
Step 2 Use 120-grit sandpaper to strip painted or stained finishes from areas you want to antique. Sand until bare wood is exposed. Wipe up dust with a tack cloth or a clean rag. If your piece needs a fresh coat of paint or new color, apply it and let dry (Annie Sloan Chalk Paint is a great choice for this as it needs no priming).
Step 3 Brush on stain or antiquing medium (note that deeper golden tones, smoky grays, and tobacco browns are good choices for creating aged looks) across the sanded areas. Let dry. Repeat until you get the desired depth of color.
Step 4 After the stain has dried, go over the finish with 220-grit sandpaper to smooth out raised wood grain and give the finish a final, but gentle, scuffing.
When it comes to a boho look, the more patterns the better! Choose geometric, floral, checked, and abstract fabric prints that share similar colors, but boast different-sized patterns.
Boho is a visually busy style so introduce plenty of light and white furniture finishes and textiles to break up the swirl of color and patterns and to provide resting places for the eye.
Introduce tarnished silver, brass and copper dishes for extra-aged charm.
A statuesque candleholder cuts a fetching figure, contributes a warming coppery glow even when candles aren’t lit, and acts as a captivating counterpoint to displays of woven baskets and distressed furniture finishes.
Bring in a large plant to complement hanging pots and the tabletop succulents on the other side of the bed. We placed a large palm in a vintage crock as a sturdy foundation and watertight container.
A vivaciously upholstered ottoman sparked with metallic threads moves in as a handy and handsome nightstand. You can find one here.
Its matching partner stands ready as a shoe-donning seat near the foot of the bed, alongside the table we relocated from the head of the bed.
Keep a few classic novels bedside for nights when sleep eludes. Extra points if the book bindings coordinate with the decor!
It’s not hard to find unique boho decor with ethnic vibes. Expand your eclectic collective online or head to shops that specialize in affordable global goods, such as Cost Plus World Market and Pier One. Wander furniture, garden, and accessory aisles at Home Goods, Marshalls, and T.J. Maxx.
© Caruth Studio