20th May 2022
Clutter with Character: The Story Behind Boho Interiors
We’ve all heard the term ‘bohemian’; unconventional, free-spirited, rooted in 60s flower-power. But boho isn’t a thing of the past; it’s alive and kicking, and some of our most popular shoot locations feature beautiful Bohemian interiors. Far from extinct, bohemian interiors offer a glimpse into the future – with emphasis on the handmade, the plastic-free and the potted plant, boho at its core is a style for the times.
COM-751, loft warehouse in South East London
Born in 19th century Paris, the term ‘bohémiens’ was originally a derogatory term for travellers and refugees who settled in the poorer areas of the city. Among them, priced out of convention, were artists, writers and intellectuals, and the word came to be a catch-all for those who lived outside the norm. Over time, the culture spread across Europe, with figures such as van Gogh, Mary Shelley and Oscar Wilde living nomadic, unorthodox lives.
Fast-forward a century or so, and bohemian culture gradually became synonymous with the hippie movement. Embraced by forward-thinking women in post-war Europe who were fed-up of restrictive clothes and traditional roles, the rise of loose, flowing fashion culminated in the ‘beat’ generation, with both men and women adopting long hair and gender fluidity. This is reflected in boho interiors – the textures, colours and mismatch of furniture is a distinct rejection of dark, uniform, ‘masculine’ design.
But why do bohemian interiors make great sets? And how do you pin down a style that, by definition, has no rules? For a start, it’s about maximalism – creating a visual feast that tells a story. Interesting objects, bespoke artwork and historical features all have their place in boho interior design, and can add intrigue to any photoshoot.
The process of ‘aging’ a wall with paint splatters and peeling wallpaper can bring a characterless room to life. At COM-9109, a lovely Grade 1 listed building in South East London, the venue’s rich history is shown off with metallic gold paint for a little less shabby, a little more chic.
COM-9109, homeware shop in South East London
Similarly, exposed brickwork can instantly add texture and interest to any space. In RES-8510, a beautiful factory conversion in East London, the warm grey brickwork is used as a natural base onto which modern fittings and bright furnishings are added.
RES-8510, factory conversion in East London
Another key Bohemian feature is a wide range of varied furnishings. This doesn’t mean you can’t be particular, just don’t be minimalist. Souvenirs, charity shop gems and flea market finds all add to that boho style, and give your interior a bespoke feel. Here in RES-7284, there’s no such thing as too much – a patterned throw on a plain sofa can transform it, and a collection of odd furniture isn’t clutter, it’s art. Bohemian design isn’t about making it look like no-one’s ever lived in your home – it’s about bringing the life in.
RES-7284, loft apartment in East London
There aren’t any hard and fast rules on colour in Bohemian design, but tones like green and brown can provide a base for adding bolder pieces to your interior. In RES-8930, a quirky East London apartment, the wooden flooring, exposed brickwork and olive-green furnishings help to accentuate the ruby reds and metallic tones. Artwork also covers the walls – after all, boho is rooted in creativity and will always find a place for the handmade. Wicker chairs, wall hangings and patterned quilts can all be sourced from independent creators, giving the space a sense of bespoke quality – this is not a room easily replicated in Ikea.
RES-8930, East London apartment
Plants are welcome in any interior, but they work particularly well with boho as they can add instant pattern and shape to a drab corner. RES-9070 even has them hanging from the ceiling alongside the chandeliers, bringing a prevailing sense of nature and life to the Victorian architectural features.
RES-9070, Victorian house in South West London
At its core, the Bohemian style is about moving away from the sleek and sparse, and embracing maximalism; each choice of prop can carry meaning, and help to paint a rich and detailed picture. This makes boho interiors a goldmine for visual storytelling and the perfect setting for filming and photography.
Title Image: COM-10206, boutique hotel in Kent