A relaxing bohemian outdoor space
(Image credit: FollowTheFlow)

Bohemian, or boho style, is relaxed, comfortable, and carefree. If the style of the hippie sixties and early seventies appeals to you, why not create a boho backyard? This natural, easy-breezy style is well suited to the garden, and it’s not a difficult mood to create. 

What is Bohemian Patio Décor all About? 

Modern boho style dates back to the 1960s era of free-spirited hippie culture. The term bohemian comes from the Bohemia region of the Czech Republic. As a style and culture, bohemian actually dates back more than 200 years. It was used in Europe to describe exotic and artistic individuals, including the Romani people. 

Today, boho is an updated style taking elements from this long history. When it comes to boho porch décor, don’t overthink it. Take inspiration from nature and your own garden. Use lots of textures, patterns, and natural materials. Include plenty of comfy seating with cushions and blankets. 

Ideas for a Boho Patio and Garden

Use these bohemian porch ideas, elements for the garden and patio, and take inspiration to create your own comfortable, carefree space. 

  • Seating in natural materials. Boho style takes elements from nature, which makes it perfect for a garden. Wood is great, but also consider what was popular in the late ‘60s and early ‘70s, like wicker. 
  • And low to the ground. Natural boho seating is comfy, cozy, and close to nature. Low chairs and benches, big seating pillows, and hammocks strung between trees are perfect for a boho patio. 
  • Mismatched and vintage. Nothing should match too much in a boho setting. Look for vintage or vintage-looking pieces and mix and match. 
  • Add macrame. Macrame is a big element in boho style. You can use them to hang potted plants around the patio. Bonus points for making your own. 
  • Embrace layers and textures. Some would describe boho as a busy style, but in a good way. Layer on textiles to get the look. Put down a colorful rug or two, use lots of pillows on the seating, and have several patterned blankets on hand in different textures. 
  • Soft lighting. For the nighttime, use soft, romantic lighting. Use strings of fairy lights or Edison bulbs, old-fashioned lanterns, and candles—LED for safety, of course. 

Keep in mind that boho doesn’t really have any rules. Get inspired by looking at boho gardens and patios online. Don’t be afraid to mix colors and patterns and even additional styles outside of boho. The more free-spirited, the better. 

Mary Ellen Ellis
Writer

Mary Ellen Ellis has been gardening for over 20 years. With degrees in Chemistry and Biology, Mary Ellen's specialties are flowers, native plants, and herbs.