Have you been scrolling through your Reels or TikTok lately and come across the term "organic modernism"? Because it's quite possibly one of the hottest trends in interior design right now (cue Zoolander "so hot right now").
But what is organic modernism, exactly? The TLDR: organic modernism the marriage of nature and modern design. This design style opens the door for spaces that are both beautiful and functional. It's the perfect pick for those looking to bring some zen into their homes and create an environment that promotes well-being.
Organic modernism is a smash hit among interior design enthusiasts who value simplicity, sustainability, and the use of natural materials. And let's be real, who doesn't love the idea of incorporating the beauty of nature into their homes?
With its spike in popularity, it's clear that organic modernism is more than just a trend - it's a movement towards creating healthier, eco-conscious living spaces. Get ready to embrace the new era of interior design with organic modernism.
(source: @debraferrarifineart)
But First...The History of Organic Modernism
Let's take a trip down memory lane to the early 20th century where the roots of organic modernism were first planted (pun fully intended).
Frank Lloyd Wright, the OG of "organic architecture" (a term he coined that then evolved to organic modernism), was the mastermind behind this design style. Wright was a firm believer that buildings should blend seamlessly with their natural surroundings, like a chameleon blending into its background.
(image via Shutterstock)
Wright was all about using natural materials (like wood and stone) in his designs, giving the world a much-needed break from the ornate Victorian style. You might've heard of one of his most famous works - the Fallingwater house in Pennsylvania. This 1930s masterpiece showcases everything that organic modernism is all about, from the cantilevered balconies that seem to float above a waterfall to the use of natural materials.
Across the pond in Europe, we have another trailblazer of organic modernism/architecture - Alvar Aalto. This Finnish architect was known for his innovative designs and love for natural materials. One of his most famous works, the Villa Mairea in Noormarkku, Finland, showcases the use of organic shapes and curved lines, proving that organic modernism isn't just about practicality, but also about adding a touch of playfulness to design.
So that's a brief overview of the roots of organic modernism, where the likes of Frank Lloyd Wright and Alvar Aalto paved the way for this beloved design style to grow and evolve over the years.
(photo credit: Angelina Rennell / James Carriere / Brent Black, image via @dc_hillier)
The Four Pillars of Organic Modernism
The heart and soul of organic modernism lies in its pillars. Whether you're a seasoned interior design pro or a newcomer to the world of organic modernism, these pillars will provide a solid foundation to build upon.
Pillar #1: Functionality
Organic modernism isn't just about looking good, it's about working well too. It's like that friend who always shows up with a six-pack of beer for a backyard BBQ. Always reliable, always appreciated. Organic modernism values practicality just as much as it values aesthetics.
Pillar #2: Sustainability
This design style is all about being environmentally conscious and reducing our carbon footprint. It's like a love letter to Mother Nature, saying "I care about you and I want to protect you". By incorporating natural materials and reducing the use of artificial materials, organic modernism is doing its part to help the planet.
Pillar #3: Connection to Nature
Organic modernism values the natural world and aims to bring a piece of the outside in. It's like bringing a bouquet of wildflowers into your home to brighten up the room. By incorporating natural light, greenery, and natural materials, organic modernism creates spaces that are both calming and grounding.
Pillar #4: Minimalism
This design style values simplicity and believes that less is more. It's like a blank canvas, ready for you to add your own personal touch. By keeping things simple and uncluttered, organic modernism creates spaces that are both peaceful and modern.
(source: Joanna Gaines' Instagram)
Pop Culture Designers Who Tap Into This Design Style
Now that you know the history and principles, let's talk about current pop culture interior designers who leverage organic modernism in their craft. These designers are paving the way in the world of organic modernism and can be considered the crème de la crème of the organic modernism movement.
Joanna Gaines
Yes, a designer you likely know and love. The Fixer Upper star has been recognized for her organic modernism style that brings in natural materials like reclaimed wood and rattan. She's a master of balancing modern and rustic elements to create cozy and inviting spaces.
Amber Lewis
Amber is the creative mastermind behind the LA-based design firm Amber Interiors. She's well known for her using natural materials like linen and jute, as well as her ability to seamlessly blend vintage and modern elements in her designs.
Justina Blakeney
Chances are, if you're swiping through Instagram you've come across Justina. Justina is a bohemian design goddess who's all about embracing the eclectic. She uses natural materials, bold patterns, and unique textures to create imaginative spaces that are lively, fun, and have a connection to nature.
Arent & Pyke
This interior design duo from Australia is known for their sophisticated and stylish spaces that embrace organic modernism. They use a combo of natural materials and neutral color palettes to create timeless and chic spaces.
(Links to products: planter, plant stand, marble table lamp, jute rug, hourglass end table, wavy mirror)
Incorporating Organic Modernism Into Your Home
So you're ready to bring some fresh vibes into your home and embrace the organic modernism trend. Awesome. Let's dive into a few key elements that will help you achieve this look.
Step #1: Bring In Those Natural Materials
As we've touched on, natural materials are the building blocks of an organic modernism home. They bring the outdoors in and create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Plus, they're super durable, so you won't have to worry about replacing them anytime soon.
Here are some of our top picks for natural materials:
-
Bamboo: Bamboo is a fantastic sustainable and eco-friendly material. Use it for flooring, furniture, or even as a decorative accent.
-
Linen: Linen is a versatile and natural fabric that's perfect for adding texture to your home. Use it for curtains, throw pillows, or even as upholstery.
-
Jute: Jute is a durable and natural fiber that's can bring in more of a rustic vibe. Use it for rugs, baskets, or even as wall art.
-
Marble: Likely one of the most popular materials in all homes. Marble is a beautiful and natural stone that adds a touch of luxury to any space. Use it for countertops, flooring, or even as a decorative accent.
-
Copper: Copper is a warm and natural metal that's perfect for adding some shine to your home. We love adding it in for lighting fixtures or hardware.
-
Concrete: Concrete is a raw and natural material that adds an industrial touch to your home. Use it for countertops, flooring, or even as a decorative accent
(source: @le_house_)
Step #2: Open The Shades and Let the Natural Light Flow
Natural light is an absolute must in an organic modernism home. It creates a bright and airy atmosphere and highlights the natural materials you've brought in. So make sure to keep your windows uncovered or invest in some sheer curtains or blinds to keep the light flowing.
Step #3: Keep it Simple
When it comes to design elements, less is definitely more. Stick to clean lines and neutral colors to let your natural materials take center stage. And don't be afraid to mix and match different textures. Just don't overwhelm the space so much that it starts to veer into maximalist territory.
Step #4: Embrace Your Inner Mother Nature
One of the key principles of organic modernism is to create a connection to the outdoors. The goal is to make your home feel like an extension of what's right outside your windows. So, bring in some indoor plants, create a cozy reading nook near a window, or even install a skylight to bring in even more natural light.
(source: @willoughby_and_bull)
Ready to Add Some Organic Modernism Vibes to Your Space?
Not only does incorporating organic modernism make your home a stylish and trendy space, but it also has some pretty awesome benefits, too. It creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, brings in a touch of nature, and can even improve your mental and physical well-being.
And there's research to back this up, too.
A study conducted by the University of Washington found that patients in hospital rooms with views of nature had shorter hospital stays, needed less pain medication, and reported higher levels of satisfaction with their environment compared to those without natural views. Another study published in the National Library of Medicine found that exposure to green spaces can improve mood and reduce stress.
It's time the organic modernism trend and turn your home into a stylish oasis. Whether it's with natural materials, a dash of natural light, or a connection to the great outdoors, there are plenty of ways to make this trend work for your aesthetic. And, remember, the key is to keep it simple and let your natural materials take the spotlight. Have a blast decorating.
