Paris' Moulin Rouge
A truly bohemian bedroom is inspired by the colorful, extravagant artists and courtesans of 19th century Paris, whose symbol is often the Moulin Rouge---the 1889-built cabaret in the Pigalle area of Paris. The colors and textures of a modern-day bohemian bedroom get their seductive inspiration from the famous district. Today, the word bohemian evokes the idea of bringing new life to old items and layering textures, styles and color.
Layers of Color and Texture
The bohemian look relies on layers of color. For the walls, choose paint in earthy or jeweled tones, such as rich brown, rusty orange, deep burgundy or emerald green. Each wall can be a different color, or choose two alternating colors.
The floors, too, benefit from layering---in the form of area rugs. Look for Persian-inspired rugs with coordinating (but not matching) colors with your walls. Even if you have a carpeted bedroom, laying rugs down seemingly haphazardly adds to the overall bohemian feel.
Bedding in varying jeweled or earthy tones is sumptuous. Mix up the colors in the bedding. With jeweled-toned bedding, choose navy sheets, a maroon comforter cover and an amber throw. Bring in various textures, as well; cotton sheets under a satin duvet, with a wool throw and decorative polyester pillows builds upon the bohemian theme.
Draperies can be layered. Hang at least two draperies, such as a filmy white drapery with a heavier velvet curtain on the outer edges. Ties with beads or fringe holding the curtains back add yet another layer.
Accoutrements
In a bohemian bedroom, clutter is not a problem; it's an art. More is better, so when it comes to displaying photos, feel free to pack them in a tight space. Frame the photos in a bevy of sizes and shapes, using jeweled frames that look as if they have been in the family for several generations.
Small collections, if there is adequate space for them, work well in a bohemian bedroom. They can sit together on a table or ledge or in a shadow box on the wall. Just remember to group like items together. Some collectibles to consider: perfume bottles, old cameras, tiny boxes (e.g., pill boxes), old musical instruments or spectacles. Any items that capture your heart and spark conversation are good choices.
Hanging art is a terrific nod to the artistry of the bohemian lifestyle, and copies of some of the great artists of the day are available for a song. Toulouse-Lautrec's "Moulin Rouge: La Goulue" famously represents the times. Find a large poster and frame it in black---a true statement for a bohemian bedroom.
The Senses
Since bohemians enjoyed much more than just what met the eye, don't forget about the other senses. The sense of smell is one of the most powerful senses. Enhance the air with diffusers or incense sticks; rich amber, sensual sandalwood or the ever-groovy patchouli are classically bohemian scents. For the sense of taste, brew tea with cinnamon or orange blossoms. Listen to any music that makes you feel romantic or artistic; rousing can-can music is authentic but may be more rowdy than what you'd expect. And if a DVD player is in the bedroom, watch Baz Luhrmann's "Moulin Rouge" for immersion into the Moulin Rouge experience.
Tags: bohemian bedroom, Moulin Rouge