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Posts Tagged ‘Boho’

Recognizing the Boho-Ethnic Look

Tuesday, July 18th, 2017

Universal Furniture Bedroom The Boho Chic Bed Rails 6_0 45077R

During the first few years of the new millennium, more specifically during the 1990s, it was observed that ethnic style took center stage. This style got its influence from fashion designers, the likes of Dries van Noten, Kenzo, Christian Lacroix, Vivienne Tam, to name a few. These designers, in turn, were inspired by a variety of styles namely African, Asian, Arctic, and Native American. They were not afraid to use unique styles from far away lands.

Ethnic fashion also found sources of its own inside the Western hemisphere. Northern and Eastern European nations also gave their own share of the ethnic style.

Ethnic Aesthetics

For a lot of Western designers, Eastern aesthetics have become a rich source of subjects. Their creativity was easily spurred by the colorful cultures that reside within the Eastern hemisphere. Here, breaking conventions is perceived as a way of finally seeing or being freed from something that has kept one shackled.

Simply defined, ethnic fashion is eclectic and eclectic fashion is ethnic. This is also applicable to interior design.

Exoticism is more often associated with the faraway nations and is, therefore, broader than the common eclectic term. Here, you are rerouted from being a Westerner to being appreciative of other cultures.

Ethnic Design – The Beginning

Back in the day, luxury is linked with anything that’s foreign. Since this is so, it becomes difficult to actually trace where and when ethnic design was born in the West. One has to take into consideration the trade routes that passed through the West which include Egypt, Persia, and Central Asia. Later, other nations were added to these including China, India, Japan, Mexico, Colombia and many more.

French and Italian silk productions were soon founded, still catering for much more demand for ethnic look.

By the 1800s, cashmere and silk became quite popular and fully used in many aspects of fashion.

Diverse Style

Ethnic style is crucial in fashion though somewhat ignored. As the world of fashion moves ever forward to adjust to the existence of diverse cultures, naturally, interior design follows suit. With these culturally diverse styles, we can now have a clearer definition of what ethnic interior design is all about.

There are various types of designs for ethnic styles depending on who is using them and what ideas are being utilized. All people have a rough idea on what their ultimate dream house would actually look like. Some homeowners opt for a Western style while others prefer the unique ethnic features that Eastern designs offer.

In essence, Chinese or Japanese interior design can be considered ethnic, as are Indian, Filipino or Thai interiors.

The Ethnic Bedroom

It is always safest to begin with the bedroom when it comes to designing projects. Find out what kind of ethnic bed you would want and what materials will be used – gold metal? How about wicker? Or bamboo perhaps?

The shape, patterns, and colors will also define if you are embracing an ethnic interior design. Japanese style beds would have you sleeping closer to the floor or on the floor. Chinese beds have hints or splashes of gold. The choices are almost limitless.

As to window treatments, there is also a huge difference between the blinds that you could use with Japanese interiors and the heavy drapes that often decorate Chinese bedrooms.

When specifically embracing the Boho style or the Bohemian look or Boho-Chic, think of the hippie or gypsy fashion statements. Who you are pretty much dictates what your home’s design elements would contain.

So, will ethnic style suit you well? Also, consider if your family members are also amenable to this style. Once you have come to a concession, then go ahead and alter the style of your habitat.

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Bohemian: Anything But Basic

Monday, January 9th, 2017

Universal Furniture Living Room Wild Flower Console 450803: Metals are huge in Boho interiors so utilize them to your advantage.

To many people, Bohemian design could appear mismatched or chaotic. Just picture the piles of multi-colored window treatments, cushions, Oriental accessories, unique bedding sets, and jewelry and you’d know this is no simple interior design theme.

So what really is Bohemian interior design?

Looking at different Boho interiors throughout the globe, you are sure that you would never be bored if you embrace this style. Don’t expect monochromes in a boho room. What you should expect are your eyes jumping from one furnishing to the next as the friendly and warm eclecticism will make you marvel.

Boho design lacks requirements and restrictions. Just be original and overwhelming, be individualistic, artistic and be able to express yourself. These are the aspects that will make you a Boho enthusiast.

The Bohemian Origin

Comprehending boho means knowing where it came from. This is simplified La Boheme or the French word for gypsy. The gypsies are the perfect examples of people who live a bohemian lifestyle. Artists during the 19th century also were bohemian.

Boho also came from Bohemia which is a territory that was inhabited by gypsies back in the day. These nomadic spirits set their own rules for hundreds of years and they had their own style. It is no surprise, therefore, that artists were also referred to as Bohemians.

Maitland-Smith Accessories Bohemian Read Leather Box 1120-564

Boho Is Colorful

One of the wonderful features of boho design is the fusion of colors, textures and patterns. You will also see a lot of cultural influences which also exist in other parts of the planet.

Bohemian is unpredictable, bright and unique.

To pick a boho color for your room décor, be sure to find a fundamental color then search for contrasts. So, a blue couch would look great with a golden yellow pillow.

Boho Furniture

Boho interiors also suggest an ambience of relaxation and creativity. Comfort is the keyword that also describes the furnishings in this home. Say yes to colorful, upholstered pieces and all were chosen because of the level of comfort that they could offer.

Invest in cozy chairs with armrests, deep sofas, side tables, ottomans and other comfy seating units. Leather couches are also ideal for all Bohemian interiors.

Arrange your old book collections into distressed shelves. Wooden sideboards, shabby chic armoires and wicker pieces are all welcome. It is also a good idea to buy wrought-iron furniture and accessories.

Impressive Boho Décor

Getting an impressive boho décor to work with the rest of the furnishings might mean traveling to different destinations (or at least knowing a lot about other cultures). Items from your travels will become quite useful as wall décor or they could be placed atop the fireplace mantel or console table.

Use rugs, pillows, upholstery and curtains that have interesting textures. Fuse cotton and fur, silk and velvet, tapestry and batiste. There are even some who go as far as combining bright-colored cushions and patterned carpet.

Do you wanna go Moroccan? Then this kind of interior would also work well in a Bohemian setting. Use the iconic rugs and carpets as well as metal credenzas.

What about boho chic? These days, this is a remarkably trendy style. Here, you will find quality materials, textured surfaces, the most glamorous pieces, lamps, pendants and crystals, even faux vintage items.

Green boho is something that’s sustainable and is wary of nature preservation. People who prefer this sub-style choose to use natural materials like silk, cotton, leather, stone, tiles, brick and metal accents. Form a kaleidoscope of these elements and you’d be achieving the ultimate Bohemian look.

Another boho style is the Bohemian hippie. This is enthusiastic, bright and still original. Use funky florals, patterns, animal prints, fringe, lace, textiles and detailed accents.

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Maximalism – Why It’s Not Just the Opposite of Minimalism

Friday, May 27th, 2016

1120CR Kit Club Chair by Cynthia Rowley

1120CR Kit Club Chair by Cynthia Rowley

If you want some time away from the minimalist perspective being offered by modern living, then you will find refuge in maximalism. This is the grand antidote to clean lines and the simplicity of neutral color palettes and streamlined furnishings. Maximalist dwelling places are daring and dramatic yet still welcoming. Your eyes will never be bored as there is a visual feast in every room.

One Rule: There Is No Rule

Maximalism is all about conveying your personality through your home. It can be fun, romantic, rustic, even dramatic. Say goodbye to design rules as they are not that important in this kind of style. In fact, the only rule that you need to remember is to say throw any rules outside of the window.

Maximalism means playing with design elements in your own terms. Play with colors, patterns, scale and textures. Do not be contented with little embellishments, go to the hilt and decorate to the brim.

You can always evolve as there will always be room for improvement inside a maximalist home.

Leave Very Little Space

The maximalist is always a busy person. Her home comes in visual layers that build up in phases or stages. You could begin with some anchor pieces in neutral hues. Begin with chairs, sofa, a table, dresser, and blinds. These are the anchors upon which all the other interior design pieces will hold on to.

Keep in mind that a maximalist must be sociable, too. This means that you should have lots and lots of seats. Surround these seats with elements of blue, green, red and gold. These will look great when used all together on  wallpaper.

FFDM's Antebellum Collection features bulky furniture pieces that will fit right into a maximalist home.

FFDM’s Antebellum Collection features bulky furniture pieces that will fit right into a maximalist home.

Experiment with Colors

The maximalist is never bound by anything so go ahead and experiment on the different hues that you can use inside your home. You’re not bound by the pastels required of a preppy home or the black and red fusion of Gothic design.

Don’t be afraid to use dark or bold shades. Walls painted with dark colors and furniture pieces in equally hot hues will spell drama at every level. Again, there is no need to be bound by tone, harmony or contrast.

Find out what sort of mood board you can work with. Blend different colors and discover what results excite you the most.

A Lot of Mixing

Bohemian and eclectic are two of the closest words that you can use to describe maximalism. You don’t have to stick to one era or style. Mix to the max! There, that’s your rule.

Do the patterns clash? Who cares? Patterns everywhere will make a maximalist home crazier.

What about textures? The secret is to build the layers. Bring in wool, sheepskin, velvet and silk. Of course, you mustn’t forget the walls. Wall texture can be added if you hang a rug or embossed wallpaper.

Maxed Lighting

Maximalism can also be reflected in the type of lighting that you use. Go for clusters of light instead of the usual, single pendant lighting.

Lighting can add a different level of visual interest in a home so play and tweak the lights that you will use. Bring in the floor lamps, colorful chandeliers, and table lamps. Look for pop pieces that are the exact opposite of classic beauty and elegance.

Up to the Ceiling

A maximalist won’t stop designing her home the moment the rooms are filled with furnishings and colors. Look up and you would find out that there is still so much to do.

Get wallpaper to cover your ceiling or find the paint that suits your taste. Patterned wallpaper, for instance, will look great with light walls but they are also sure to stand out with dark paint.

Make your choice now, maximalist.

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Boho Charm – Is It Bohemian, Retro or Moroccan?

Saturday, March 19th, 2016

 

Living Room Uttermost Naeva Gold End Table 24422 is perfect in a Boho dwelling. Go for shiny metals to boost the Boho charm in your home.

Living Room Uttermost Naeva Gold End Table 24422 is perfect in a Boho dwelling. Go for shiny metals to boost the Boho charm in your home.

Do you gravitate towards the laidback vibe of the Boho scheme? This is a cohesive look that you can use in your home but if you also feel like including luxurious textiles, metallic accents, and opulent jewels, then nothing’s keeping you from doing so. Boho design is free so it can take flight where you want it to soar.

Boho: A Blend of Glamour and Tranquility

You might think that it’s impossible to achieve both glamour and serenity but these are two characteristics that are both present in Boho. There are many ways to use this look in your home.

First, you simply have to achieve a gallery effect. What is this? This is a bright and airy space where the walls are lined with wall art, photographs and pops of hot pink, turquoise, and indigo hues.

Branches can be used effectively in this kind of design. During pruning season, they are affordable, even abundant. They could last for more than a week so that means a week of having a huge interior design impact. Instead of the usual flowers in vases, why not consider branches the next time?

A sunroom is already an exciting place to begin with. With a burst of color and thrilling patterns, it can become a vintage-inspired room. Add 50s vinyl chairs to complete the look. Sheers can provide the needed separation and privacy.

Creating visual balance is easy with Boho. All you have to do is take a stack of books and place them in sturdy shelves, use white and blue vases for your flowers or indoor plants, and display your collections. Don’t be tempted to bring out all of your collectibles, though, or you would end up with chaos instead of a symmetrical design.

Universal Furniture Bedroom The Boho Chic Bed (King) 45076B

Universal Furniture Bedroom The Boho Chic Bed (King) 45076B

The breakfast nook can be styled in a casual manner by using a rustic table and breadboards. These can be easily contrasted by anything that’s brightly-colored such as a green chairs. Mid-century wine racks will also serve an aesthetic and functional purpose inside this room. Enjoy that morning cup of coffee as you take a careful look at the wine bottles in those racks.

Take your Boho charm a bit farther as you display your collection of rocks or white pottery. Add a lovely painting that is leaning against the wall and you’re just a few steps from finishing.

Wild flowers and weeds can make a difference in your Boho interiors. Indoor organics don’t necessarily have to be flowers or green plants all the time.

Adding wicker furniture with sheepskin is a classic way to achieve the 70s look. This combination spells retro. If white sheepskin is a little too delicate for you, you can also opt for the black or gray sheepskin. It is a foolproof way of ramping up your Boho glam.

Adding a bar trolley is yet another stylish way to cap your Boho interiors. Say no to uniformity. Discard the other pair if you have two lamps, two rugs or two chairs. Then make room for lots and lots of plants. If weeds don’t make you go gaga then just opt for green plants with wide leaves. Macramé plant hangers will also look great.

Mix in some tribal prints inside the bedroom. This is a special room where you can have the relaxed side of Boho. Art Deco stuff is also welcome inside this space. Find a stylish white headboard, piped edging, and a glass-topped bedside table. Ethnic prints bring in a different kind of vibe. Normally, this shouldn’t work but the miracle of Boho is that – it does, it always does.

Are you ready to bring in a unique interior design? Then Boho it is.

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