Modernism, minimalism, monochrome palates and the love of all things Scandinavian streamlined have dominated the world of home decor now for almost a decade.
While this may be fine for some I, for one, am thankful to see the return of old world, cluttered and bright. So, you can imagine my joy when some of the leading decorator publications announced the return of BoHo Chic.
Bohemian-Chic, also referred to as Gypsy decor, combines junk from the attic with romance and luxury. It can be done on a shoestring budget or with the attitude of “price is no object.” But, for the sake of this column, let’s take the frugal approach.
Start your shopping at home as your basement, attic and garage can hold many of the raw materials you need to get started. Low on junk? Supplement what you have with a visit to secondhand stores, vintage shops and flea markets. Items to watch for include old lamps, birdcages, costume jewelry, framed maps, globes, strands of bells, wind chimes pillows of varying sizes and plenty of beads, tassels and fringe.
Furnishings range from ornate carved wood and metal furniture to rattan and up-scaled re-purposed treasures. Trunks, suitcases and boxes offer great storage. Stack them in a corner effect or use them as occasional tables. Pieces with an Oriental flair are also at home in a Gypsy room, so consider the use of ornate black lacquer chests and folding screens. While the possibilities for furniture selection are limitless, remember to anchor your room with comfortable seating and cozy conversational areas. Plush upholstered furniture and supple leather sofas and chairs are a good place to start.
Varied textures stand out as one of the main elements of design. Fabrics range from heavy brocades to light and airy silks. Mandala and Hippie tapestries, tribal patterns, tie dye and peacock fabrics are a must. Throw out the concept of mix and match! In this genre of decorating it is mix, mix, mix! Color is the key with heavy use of rich gem tones like emerald green, sapphire, ruby and amethyst.
Wall coverings range from a gallery of flea market art to poster art with a hint of mystery and old world maps. Release your creativity and let it wander. Framed art and mirrors are nice, but in the Gypsy inspired room, scarves, strands of beads, hand painted murals and even area rugs can be used. If you have been slave to solid color walls, as I have for many years, you may need to reset the way you think. The perfect backdrop for this decor is a base coat of a vivid color, warmed by a color wash of secondary color. This will result in a marbled effect that is perfect as the foundation for your rooms.
Finish off your room with edgy accents of painted pottery from the Italian countryside, pagodas and Buddhas, Oriental rugs and brass and from India. Then balance it with the softness of lamps draped with scarves and curtains made from a vintage bedspread trimmed in fringe.
Surround yourself with colors that inspire, furniture that was made to be lived on and make each individual item that you purchase something that you are glad to come home to. Then release the Gypsy in your soul! Until next time . . . Linda
Linda Kennett is a professional liquidation consultant specializing in down-sizing for seniors and the liquidation of estates and may be reached at 317-258-7835 or lkennett@indy.rr.com
