Have you heard? Modern boho is the latest interior trend you need to know.
Modern boho has come a long way from the bright yellows and clashing prints of the 70’S.
Today, it’s closer to the interiors you would see in Palm Springs or in the pages of a glossy magazine. It’s also the perfect style for first homebuyers on a budget, says Homebuyers Centre Interior Designer Nadija Saluwadana, who recently executed a modern boho interior at Homebuyers Centre’s Lawson 25 display home in Ballarat.
‘The Lawson home design is perfect for young families, offering a fun and fresh take on the boho styles of the 70s,’ says Nadija. ‘Modern boho is light, bright and airy, with plenty of personality and a strong sense of cosiness.’
Below, Nadija gives the inside scoop on how you can master a modern boho style in your own home.
1. Begin with a light and bright base
To ensure longevity, make sure your base colour palette is very light and neutral. Use plenty of whites and off-whites, while avoiding too much black.
At the Lawson 25 display, Nadija adapted Homebuyers Centre’s Coastal colour scheme, designed by Alisa & Lysandra, to fit the boho profile.
‘The kitchen in this home is particularly special – despite the home’s smaller footprint, it’s L-shape feels very spacious, with open shelves and dedicated space for a coffee station or bar,’ says Nadija.
‘For the abundant cabinetry, I upgraded the overheads to Polytec’s woodmatt Coastal Oak. To add warmth and texture, I kept the base in standard Blossom White, complimenting the overheads cabinetry perfectly.
‘The benchtops are in the Caesarstone London Grey, offset with Yesterday White subway tiles in the splashback.’
Nadija carried this peaceful palette through the wet areas, with Argento Stone benchtops mixed with Storm Grey tiles in the bathrooms.
2. Select soft feature colours
Let your personality shine through your accent colours! Ensure your colour palette remains soft and inviting by choosing lighter tones, rather than anything too dark and heavy, such as charcoal or black.
‘At the Lawson 25 display home, I chose a beautiful light blue mixed with mustards and beige,’ says Nadija.
Design tip? Incorporate your colours into painted feature walls in your bedroom, theatre, or niche areas, such as your hallway. Handmade abstract artworks, featuring the traditional bohemian arches and lighter tones, will also help nail the boho vibe.
‘I particularly love the custom denim blue sofa we used in the living space, matched with denim bedheads in the minor bedrooms.’
3. Don't forget your layers
Far from a minimalist style, bohemian schemes are all about cosy layers. Think cushions, throws and textured rugs in your accent colours. You can also include eclectic elements such as table lamps, macrame wall hangings and hand-crafted pottery.
‘Bohemian patterns are another great way to break up the predominantly neutral palette and create interest for the eye,’ adds Nadija.
Mix different organic patterns through feature wallpapers in your bedroom, patterned rugs, rattan bedheads and woollen blankets and bedding.’
4. Stick to natural materials
Avoid glossy or metallic finishes. Instead, boho schemes incorporate plenty of natural shapes and surfaces. This often begins with the floors, with Nadija choosing Cappucino Oak wood-look boards in the new Ballarat display home.
‘Make sure you stick with light, fresh woods rather than dark timbers,’ warns Nadija.
‘Lighting is particularly important in creating that cosy bohemian vibe. I love using rattan or rope light shades in white or a pretty pattern. The Hex Colour Blocked pendant I used at the Lawson 25 is one of my favourite features of the home.’
‘The boho style is about bringing the outdoors, in. So, make sure your home has a good flow to your outdoors and plenty of trees and plants.’
Rattan, natural wicker and linen also fit well in the modern bohemian style. As does lots of greenery – and don’t be afraid to get creative!
‘Woven Macrame plant hangers are the perfect addition throughout your home and bring a bespoke feature to your interiors,’ says Nadija.
5. Add in a few contemporary pieces
Bring a modern twist to this style by adding a few contemporary elements. How, you ask? Furniture is a great way to do this! Geometric and structured shapes provide a nod to this century.
‘Mix hard and soft pieces – think a stone side table in the living area offset by tan leather dining chairs in the dining room,’ explains Nadija.
Designed with first homebuyers in mind, the four-bedroom, two-bathroom Lawson 25 features the tranquil Emerson façade.
Check out the display for yourself – get driving instructions.