Bohemian vs eclectic style: A Complete Guide
Bohemian and eclectic style are two of the most popular interior design styles, and they are often compared because of their surface-level similarities. However, they differ significantly in philosophy, materials, and execution. Bohemian is known for free-spirited design layering global textiles, eclectic patterns, rich colors, and collected treasures from around the world, while eclectic style embraces a curated mix of eras and styles, blending colors, patterns, and furnishings with bold personal expression. Understanding the differences between these two styles will help you choose the right direction for your home, or even combine elements from both to create a personalized space.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | Bohemian | Eclectic |
|---|---|---|
| Color Palette | Jewel Tones, Terracotta, Mustard, Teal | Varied, Bold Accents, Mix of Tones |
| Key Materials | Rattan, Macrame, Kilim Rugs, Natural Fibers | Mixed Woods, Global Textiles, Mixed Metals, Vintage Finds |
| Design Era | 1960s-1970s counterculture | Modern era |
| Best Room Types | Living Room, Bedroom, Studio | Living Room, Bedroom, Studio |
| Budget Range | Budget-friendly - eclectic thrifted and global finds | Varies - mix of sources and eras |
| Maintenance | Medium - many textiles and layered pieces | Medium - diverse materials mix |
| Space Size | All sizes - layered and personal | All sizes - adapts to any space |
Color Palette
Jewel Tones, Terracotta, Mustard, Teal
Varied, Bold Accents, Mix of Tones
Key Materials
Rattan, Macrame, Kilim Rugs, Natural Fibers
Mixed Woods, Global Textiles, Mixed Metals, Vintage Finds
Design Era
1960s-1970s counterculture
Modern era
Best Room Types
Living Room, Bedroom, Studio
Living Room, Bedroom, Studio
Budget Range
Budget-friendly - eclectic thrifted and global finds
Varies - mix of sources and eras
Maintenance
Medium - many textiles and layered pieces
Medium - diverse materials mix
Space Size
All sizes - layered and personal
All sizes - adapts to any space
Key Differences
Bohemian has a recognizable aesthetic rooted in travel and counterculture; eclectic is defined by its deliberate mixing of multiple styles
Bohemian emerged from 1960s-1970s counterculture, shaping its aesthetic principles and material choices.
eclectic style emerged from modern design history, shaping its aesthetic principles and material choices.
Bohemian favors warm earth tones and jewel tones; eclectic has no fixed palette and can incorporate any colors
Bohemian typically uses Jewel Tones, Terracotta, Mustard, creating a vibrant and eclectic atmosphere.
eclectic style typically uses Varied, Bold Accents, Mix of Tones, creating a thoughtfully curated atmosphere.
Bohemian layers textiles like macrame, kilim, and embroidered fabrics; eclectic mixes furniture from different eras and origins
Bohemian emerged from 1960s-1970s counterculture, shaping its aesthetic principles and material choices.
eclectic style emerged from modern design history, shaping its aesthetic principles and material choices.
Bohemian has a relaxed, floor-level living vibe; eclectic can be polished or casual depending on the mix
In terms of bohemian has a relaxed, floor-level living vibe; eclectic can be polished or casual depending on the mix, Bohemian is defined by free-spirited design layering global textiles, eclectic patterns, rich colors, and collected treasures from around the world.
In terms of bohemian has a relaxed, floor-level living vibe; eclectic can be polished or casual depending on the mix, eclectic style is defined by a curated mix of eras and styles, blending colors, patterns, and furnishings with bold personal expression.
What They Share
When to Choose Each Style
Choose Bohemian If...
- Choose Bohemian when you want a warm, globally-inspired space with layered textiles and a relaxed, artistic vibe
- You love expressing personality through collected global treasures
- You enjoy layering patterns, textures, and colors freely
- You want a space that feels lived-in and full of stories
Choose Eclectic If...
- Choose Eclectic when you want total creative freedom to mix and match styles, periods, and aesthetics into something uniquely yours
- You are drawn to mixed styles and personal design elements
- You are designing living room or bedroom spaces
Room-by-Room Comparison
Living Room
Layered Moroccan rugs, a low floor sofa with global throw pillows, macrame wall hangings, and plants everywhere.
A eclectic style living room features mixed styles and personal, with Mixed Woods, Global Textiles, Mixed Metals, Vintage Finds creating the foundation. Colors like Varied, Bold Accents, Mix of Tones set the mood for this gathering space.
Bedroom
A canopy draped in colorful fabrics, layered kilim rugs, hanging planters, and a gallery wall of collected art.
A eclectic style bedroom embraces mixed styles and personal, using Mixed Woods, Global Textiles, Mixed Metals, Vintage Finds to create a restful retreat. The palette of Varied, Bold Accents, Mix of Tones promotes relaxation.
Kitchen
Open shelving with colorful ceramics, patterned cement tile backsplash, and hanging copper pots.
A eclectic style kitchen highlights mixed styles and personal, incorporating Mixed Woods, Global Textiles, Mixed Metals, Vintage Finds in cabinetry and surfaces. Varied, Bold Accents, Mix of Tones guide the material and finish selections.
Bathroom
Patterned encaustic floor tiles, a vintage mirror, draped linen curtain, and hanging planters.
A eclectic style bathroom showcases mixed styles and personal, with Mixed Woods, Global Textiles, Mixed Metals, Vintage Finds creating a spa-like atmosphere. The palette draws from Varied, Bold Accents, Mix of Tones.
Dining Room
A round wooden table, mismatched vintage chairs, a colorful runner, and an eclectic gallery wall.
A eclectic style dining room emphasizes mixed styles and personal, using Mixed Woods, Global Textiles, Mixed Metals, Vintage Finds for the table and surroundings. Varied, Bold Accents, Mix of Tones create the perfect backdrop for meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
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