Afrohemian Decor: Celebrating African Design in Boho Interiors

"Afrohemian" — a blend of African design and bohemian style — was one of Pinterest's standout home trends, with searches for "afrobohemian home decor" rising sharply. It celebrates handmade craft, bold pattern, natural materials, and the rich design traditions of the African continent and diaspora.

What is Afrohemian style?

Afrohemian combines the relaxed layering of boho interior design with African textiles, crafts, and art. Compared to standard boho, it's more grounded, more graphic, and more rooted in specific craft traditions.

Key elements

Textiles

Mudcloth (bògòlanfini), kente-inspired weaves, Kuba cloth, and indigo-dyed fabrics as cushions, throws, and wall hangings.

Woven baskets

Handwoven baskets displayed on walls or used as storage.

Wood carving

Carved stools, bowls, masks, and sculptures.

Natural materials

Raffia, jute, sisal, clay, leather, and dark woods.

Earthy palette with bold accents

Terracotta, ochre, rust, deep brown, and black, with indigo and mustard.

Plants

Large leafy plants complement the natural materials.

Art

Work by African and diaspora artists brings meaning and personality.

Afrohemian room ideas

Living room

A neutral sofa layered with mudcloth cushions, a carved wooden stool as a side table, a wall of woven baskets, and a large plant. See living room ideas.

Bedroom

An indigo or mudcloth throw, a woven headboard, a carved bench, and clay pottery.

Entryway

A carved stool, a woven basket for storage, and a statement mirror.

Creating the look respectfully

• Buy from makers. Seek out artisans, fair-trade sellers, and African-owned businesses.
• Learn the stories. Many textiles and objects carry cultural meaning — understand what you bring into your home.
• Choose authentic over imitation where possible.
• Mix with intention, not as a costume.

Balancing the look

1. Start with a neutral base — cream, warm white, or clay walls.
2. Choose one or two hero textiles and build the palette from them.
3. Vary pattern scale, mixing large and small.
4. Add texture through baskets, wood, and woven materials.
5. Leave breathing room so each piece shines.

Try Afrohemian in your space

Photograph a room and try in RoomStage: "Afrohemian living room, cream walls, mudcloth cushions, carved wooden stool, woven basket wall, large plants, terracotta and indigo accents." Generate a few variations to find your balance. See more in our interior design styles guide.

Frequently asked questions

What is Afrohemian decor?

A style that blends bohemian layering with African textiles, crafts, art, and natural materials.

What colors are used in Afrohemian design?

Earthy tones like terracotta, ochre, rust, and deep brown, with black, indigo, and mustard accents.

Where can I buy Afrohemian decor?

From artisans, fair-trade retailers, and African-owned businesses, as well as vintage markets.

How is Afrohemian different from boho?

It focuses specifically on African craft traditions, textiles, and art, often with a more graphic, grounded feel.