10 Ways to Mix Coastal and Bohemian Styles for a Unique Look

Introduction

A few years ago, I found myself torn between two design styles that I loved equally: the relaxed, breezy feel of coastal decor and the eclectic, free-spirited charm of bohemian design. It was like choosing between a serene walk on the beach and a vibrant festival under the stars. But then I realized—why choose? Mixing these two styles was not only possible but also an opportunity to create something entirely unique. I dove in headfirst, experimenting in my own home, and what emerged was a marriage of two aesthetics that feels both grounding and whimsical.

Coastal and bohemian (or “boho”) styles might seem like opposites at first glance, but they share a surprising number of similarities. Both celebrate a connection to nature, a love for texture, and an appreciation for laid-back living. The trick is to find the right balance: think clean, airy foundations from coastal decor paired with the layered, textural details of boho design.

If you’ve been dreaming of a space that combines seaside serenity with bohemian charm, you’re in the right place. Here are 10 ways to seamlessly mix coastal and bohemian styles, creating a home that’s effortlessly chic and undeniably you.

---

1. Start with a Neutral Base

Coastal Foundations

Begin with the crisp, airy backdrop that coastal design is known for. White or light beige walls act as a perfect blank canvas, making your space feel open and fresh.

Add Boho Layers

Once your neutral base is in place, layer in boho elements like patterned area rugs, textured throws, or colorful wall hangings. The key is to let the boho pieces bring in vibrancy without overwhelming the calming coastal vibe.

---

2. Mix Natural Textures

Rattan, Jute, and Wicker

Both coastal and bohemian styles embrace natural materials. Rattan chairs, jute rugs, and wicker baskets are versatile pieces that fit beautifully into this hybrid look.

Add Bohemian Layers with Macramé and Fringe

Pair your coastal textures with bohemian ones like macramé wall hangings, fringe-trimmed cushions, or a tassel-adorned throw. The mix of clean coastal lines with boho’s playful textures creates depth and interest.

---

3. Combine Coastal and Boho Color Palettes

Start with Soft Coastal Tones

Coastal decor is all about light and breezy colors like white, sandy beige, and soft blues.

Introduce Boho Accents

Layer in the rich, earthy tones of boho style—think terracotta, mustard yellow, and deep greens. These pops of color add warmth and vibrancy while still blending harmoniously with the coastal palette.

---

4. Play with Patterns

Subtle Coastal Patterns

Coastal design leans toward subtle patterns like stripes and nautical-inspired prints. Use these sparingly on items like cushions or curtains.

Bold Boho Prints

Balance the minimal coastal patterns with bold bohemian prints like kilims, ikats, or paisleys. A patterned area rug or throw can become the statement piece that ties the two styles together.

---

5. Add Greenery

Coastal Simplicity

For a coastal vibe, use simple greenery like snake plants, succulents, or a vase of pampas grass. These add a touch of life without cluttering the space.

Boho Variety

Boho style thrives on an eclectic mix of plants. Add trailing vines, monstera leaves, or even a small indoor palm for a lush, bohemian vibe. Mix and match pots in natural materials like clay, woven fibers, or glazed ceramics.

---

6. Choose Eclectic Coastal Furniture

Coastal Simplicity Meets Boho Charm

Choose coastal-style furniture with clean lines—think slipcovered sofas or light-wood tables—and dress them up with boho accents like layered throws or patterned cushions.

Mix and Match

For an eclectic touch, combine coastal staples with one or two statement boho pieces, like a carved wood coffee table or a low-slung, colorful pouf.

---

7. Layer Rugs for Texture

Coastal Base Layer

Start with a simple, natural fiber rug, like jute or sisal, as the foundation. These rugs are a hallmark of coastal decor and set a neutral tone.

Boho Top Layer

Layer a smaller bohemian rug with bold patterns or vibrant colors on top. This creates a cozy, textured look that feels collected and intentional.

---

8. Use Lighting to Create Ambiance

Coastal Lighting

Stick with coastal-inspired fixtures like whitewashed wood chandeliers or clear glass pendant lights. These help maintain a bright, open feel.

Boho Accent Lighting

Layer in warm, ambient lighting with woven lampshades, Moroccan lanterns, or string lights. These softer light sources bring in the cozy, magical feel of boho design.

---

9. Incorporate Art and Decor

Coastal Simplicity

Hang a few pieces of coastal artwork, like abstract ocean-inspired prints or black-and-white beach photography.

Boho Personality

Mix in eclectic boho pieces like woven wall hangings, vintage mirrors, or gallery walls featuring a mix of textures, patterns, and colors. The result is a curated, lived-in look that tells a story.

---

10. Keep the Space Relaxed

Coastal Serenity

Maintain the laid-back, uncluttered vibe of coastal decor by keeping the space functional and free-flowing.

Boho Freedom

Add the carefree spirit of boho design with mismatched pillows, a cozy reading nook, or a hammock chair in the corner. These touches invite you to unwind and enjoy the space.

---

Picture Gallery

---

Conclusion

Mixing coastal and bohemian styles is all about finding harmony between two aesthetics that value comfort, nature, and individuality. By starting with a clean, neutral base and layering in textures, patterns, and colors from both styles, you can create a space that feels both serene and full of personality.

When I combined these styles in my own home, I realized how much fun it could be to play with contrasts—smooth vs. textured, neutral vs. colorful. The result wasn’t just a room; it was a reflection of who I am: someone who loves the peace of the coast and the adventurous spirit of boho.

So, why settle for one style when you can have the best of both worlds? Embrace the natural beauty of coastal design and the eclectic charm of bohemian decor to create a home that feels uniquely yours. Trust me—every time you walk into the room, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into your very own seaside retreat with a boho twist.

---

FAQ

1. What are the key colors for mixing coastal and bohemian styles?

Start with a coastal palette of whites, beiges, and blues, and add boho-inspired earthy tones like terracotta, mustard, or forest green.

2. Can I mix bold boho patterns with coastal minimalism?

Absolutely! Balance bold patterns with coastal simplicity by using them sparingly—on rugs, pillows, or wall art—while keeping the rest of the space neutral.

3. What kind of furniture works for a coastal-boho look?

Stick with clean-lined, coastal-style furniture in light wood or white finishes, then layer in boho touches like poufs, woven chairs, or textured cushions.

4. How do I keep the space from feeling cluttered?

Focus on key statement pieces from each style, like a boho rug or coastal artwork. Use smart storage solutions to keep the space functional and tidy.

5. What natural materials work for this style?

Rattan, jute, wicker, driftwood, clay, and macramé are all materials that blend beautifully in a coastal-boho space.