Bohemian garden ideas – 9 stunning ways to create an eclectic outdoor scene

Bohemian garden ideas are the perfect solution for conjuring up a laid-back look that's full of vibrancy. All it takes is a bit of creativity and know-how to curate this eclectic style.

This backyard idea is all about curating a space that brings comfort and fun. It involves lots of color, layered textiles, and plenty of unique seating areas. You can also use lighting to enhance the aesthetic further.

Here, we take a look at some of the best bohemian garden ideas to celebrate all things unconventional, artistic and free-spirited, for an outside space that makes you smile.

What is a bohemian garden?

Defined as a perfectly-imperfect mixture of styles that takes inspiration from all around the world, a bohemian garden exudes exotic patterns, natural materials and relaxed seating. Just like bohemian style indoors, you can forget about the clean lines and pared-back materials of uber-contemporary plots – this look celebrates eccentricity, layers of visual interest, and bold colors. Break the rules – more is more.

So for your bohemian garden ideas, don't be afraid to go a little wild. Mix and match antique pieces with reclaimed materials, add a splash of colorful paint to your plant pots or pergola, pile on the textiles, and don't forget plenty of atmosphere lighting. Combined together, you'll be rewarded with a dreamy set-up that feels personal, stylish, and full of fun.

And if that hasn't got your creative juices flowing, these ideas below will fill you with even more inspiration.

1. Layer up textiles for a cozy zone

In boho-style plots, there's no reason to restrict your outdoor seating ideas to furniture. Instead, make use of the floor by layering up tons of cozy outdoor cushions and the best outdoor rugs.

'Consider layering textiles, whether that be patterned rugs, throw blankets for chilly nights or mornings, and colorful cushions, to bring a personal touch and warmth to your special space,' says Laura Janney, CEO of The Inspired Garden.

Add a mix of lanterns, string festoon lights up overhead, and use pretty trays to pop your drink on safely as you lie back and relax. We particularly love bringing patterned throws outside for summer evenings, too - this geometric handmade throw from Wayfair is a perfect choice.

Laura Janney

Laura has won awards for her work designing landscapes. She aspires to create ‘sanctuaries that feed the soul and awaken the senses’. The Inspired Garden is a full service garden and container business, with Laura imparting her wisdom via online courses.

2. String up decorations overhead for fanciful dining

There's something about outdoor dining beneath fairy lights that is just so magical, but why not go even further by stringing up colorful decorations for an all-out boho look?

Tie decorations to tree branches, fences, or even your pergola ideas, and create a garden party full of wonder which your guests won't want to leave.

'Try draping a soft fabric or macrame (like this macrame wall tassel from Amazon) above your seating area to create a cozy boho canopy,' Laura suggests. 'Not only will it offer shade in the daytime, it will add a magical, dreamy vibe to your garden for lazy afternoons or evenings to chill under the stars,' she adds.

3. Complement pale furniture with vibrant tones

Speaking of creating show-stopping seating, dress up paler, natural-toned furniture with bright cushions and accessories.

It's a simple way to bring your outdoor furniture to life, like the wooden seating above which has been transformed into a colorful, cozy nook with vibrant, patterned cushions and abundant planting.

'Colorful cushions, even small ones, can create splashes of different colors and patterns, and they can be practical as well, making garden furniture more comfortable to lounge on - a key aspect of bohemian style,' says Mike Fretto, creative director of Neighbour and outdoor furniture expert.

Mike Fretto

Mike Fretto is Creative Director for Neighbor. He advises on all things outdoor furniture and outdoor styling.

4. Opt for a luxurious daybed

A daybed is one of the new must-have pieces when it comes to garden furniture ideas and works well in a boho-inspired space. This is especially the case if you go for a patterned print, or one with a neutral, flowy canopy like the daybed pictured above.

But why stop there? Hang lanterns from above to light up the cozy shelter come nightfall. Perfect for parties, or just for lounging in peace with a good book.

The teepee daybed from Amazon is the epitome of bohemian garden style.

5. Create a chilled out vibe with low seating 

Boho style is all about chilled out comfort where everyone can relax together. Being close to the earth goes a long way in making you feel grounded, which is why pouffes (like this colorful one from Amazon) and floor cushions are the go-to seating choice when it comes to bohemian garden ideas.

Here, we see a table setting ready for family and friends to gather - it makes for a great garden party idea and is easily achievable with a longer coffee table, like this one from Wayfair.

Scattering a couple of floor cushions and pouffes in your garden will instantly create a more relaxed vibe, and make more room for guests, too. They're a great way to transform your patio ideas.

6. Illuminate your garden with gorgeous lighting

The best outdoor lights can completely transform the feel of your garden, and enable you to enjoy your outside space well into the night.

Draw attention to nature by wrapping fairy lights around trees, draping them along bushes or use floor lights to illuminate plants.

You may not have considered using LED candles (from Amazon) in the garden, but they're a brilliant way to create that calm, romantic feel for your bohemian garden ideas, without any risks.

'Bistro lights are not just for the restaurant,' adds Joshua Faas, landscape designer at Paperback Design Studio. In fact, there are so many bistro and festoon lights to choose from that can instantly cozy up your outdoor space.

These festoon lights from Amazon even come with a remote to control brightness. Just make sure to read up on how to hang outdoor sting lights to avoid injury or damage.

Joshua Faas

Joshua is a landscape design expert at Paperback Design. He has over 20 years of hands-on experience in the nursery industry.

7. Add extra warmth with a fire pit

Mixing and matching patterns and textures is crucial for a playful space, so layer up outdoor rugs, create piles of floor cushions and prepare to settle in with your chosen tribe of friends.

But when the chilly evenings arrive, there's no better way to keep cozy than to gather round one of the best fire pits.

'Adding a fire pit or chiminea is an easy way to relax and reconnect with nature on cool nights,' says Laura Janney.

If you want to incorporate bohemian garden ideas into a smaller plot, then this compact fire pit from Walmart is perfect.

8. Get children involved with a teepee

Want stylish bohemian garden ideas that'll keep you and the kids happy? The humble teepee does it all. It's a very exciting play tent for the kids to use as a den, and an on-trend, fun design element to your boho space.

This teepee and rug are subtle and muted in color, for a kids play area that blends into the rest of the garden. You can incorporate it as part of your backyard ideas for kids, for more ways to keep them entertained outside.

This portable teepee from Amazon can be used indoors and outdoors, so you can get use out of it all year round.

9. Swing from the trees in a pretty hammock

If you're looking for an alternative seating solution for your bohemian garden ideas, then how about opting for a hammock?

This beautiful woven design makes an attractive feature for any plot, as well as being a fun place to while away the afternoon. Simply string between two sturdy trees and enjoy the soothing rustle of leaves in the breeze overhead.

We're loving the intricate detail and tassels of this design which offer a vintage look, but if you're after something a bit different, try this colorful quilted hammock from QVC, or even this hammock bench from QVC.

FAQs

What are the best plants for a bohemian garden?

When it comes to the best plants for a bohemian garden, it's all to do with naturalistic planting. This includes overflowing hanging baskets, lots of ornamental grasses, and even a wildflower meadow.

'When I think of a boho garden, I immediately think of the romantic nature of a cottage garden with wild, overflowing flower beds,' says Laura Janney, CEO of The Inspired Garden.

'For a true boho garden, embrace imperfection and let the plants grow a little unruly. The goal with cottage gardens is natural beauty, not symmetry. A mix of flowy blooms with various textures and heights will add even more visual magic,' she adds.

What colors should I choose for my bohemian garden ideas?

For a bohemian-inspired garden, you can opt for colors of nature, such as earthy terracotta, warm clay, khaki, and other shades of green. If you're fully committed to the vibe, then you may want to go bolder for your garden colour schemes.

Paint an entire wall or fence in azure blue, deep rust, rich aubergine, or raspberry pink for a striking focal point. Then, layer on accessories from a complementary palette, to keep a sense of balance.

There are so many bohemian garden ideas to choose from and the list doesn't end here. Consider how to incorporate this aesthetic into things like a pergola roof, such as with string lighting or flowing cloth, and transform your outdoor living room into one abundant with pattern, textiles, and soft furnishings.