As modern design has become more popular, it’s inspired some offshoots. These hybrid styles use modern design as a starting point and branch off in new directions, pairing the style’s clean lines with unexpected elements, like beachy linens and grandiose mirrors. 

Coastal modern design gave us surprisingly sleek beach houses. Desert modern style proved that clean-lined furniture looks great with printed textiles and imposing cacti, and the modern Victorian movement gave us layered interiors fit for the contemporary queen. Just like its predecessors, the latest iteration of modern design—organic modern style—has put a fresh spin on modernism, making the usually sleek style feel warm, earthy, and surprisingly cozy.

01 Set the Scene With Pretty Neutral

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Organic modern design is earthy and minimal, so set the scene with a neutral-packed palette. Fill your home with earthy browns, creamy whites, and soft grays, and don’t be afraid to play with contrast.

02 Play With Soft, Organic Shapes

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Modern Industrial Forged-Iron Pendant Light - Adjustable Height Hanging Light Fixtures, Suitable for Dining Room And Living Room

Organic modern design embraces curves and arches, reflecting the sleek lines of modernism while echoing the softer, natural forms found in the environment. To enhance this aesthetic, consider incorporating the Modern Industrial Forged-Iron Pendant Light. Its adjustable height makes it perfect for dining rooms and living rooms, adding an earthy, sculptural element to your space. Look for this unique lighting fixture to complement curved couches and rounded armchairs, bringing a harmonious blend of style and nature into your home.

03 Put Greenery Everywhere

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Plants are a staple in organic modern design, so stock up on greenery and put it absolutely everywhere.

“If natural materials are missing from the design, it is not organic modern,” the Obermanns say. Curtis recommends sprinkling plants and organic accents throughout your space.

04 Line Your Walls and Ceilings With Woo

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Reflections of Nature: Acacia Wood Framed Mirror - Handcrafted Polished Acacia Wood Frame - Perfect for Asymmetrical Mirror, Large Asymmetrical Mirror, and Asymmetrical Bathroom Mirror

Wood is one of the most popular natural materials around, which makes an easy addition to any organic modern décor scheme.

“If we want a space to feel warm, we almost always have wood in the design,” the Obermanns say. “If hardwood floors are not compatible with the use of the space, we will bring wood in through millwork, wall treatments, or lighting.” Remember, you can always fill your space with wood furniture, too.

05 Make the Most of Your Vie

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“Organic modern design is all about bringing the outdoors inside,” Rives says. Take full advantage of all the windows and glass doors in your space. Leave these glimpses of the outdoors uncluttered, letting in as much natural light and stunning scenery as you can.

06 Stock Up on Unique Pieces

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Since organic modern design is so minimalist, you can focus on quality over quantity—filling your space with a few core pieces that really make an impact.

“I love bringing in anything that is textural and handmade,” Curtis says. “These items make the connection between artistry and nature—beckoning you to not only look, but feel.”

07 Sprinkle in Ceramics

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As you stock up on organic accents, remember that plants aren’t the only thing on offer. Earthy pieces, like ceramics, are welcome, too. The Obermanns recommend snagging some hand-glazed ceramics or stocking up on zellige tile. These accents will pair beautifully with the rest of your space, adding another layer of texture to your decor scheme.

08 Find Beauty in Weather and Wea

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Nature isn’t perfect, and organic modern design sees this as a beautiful thing. “Earthy influences highlight the beauty of the organic, the worn, the patina, the natural,” Curtis says. Embrace the texture of chipped ceramics, the soft color of worn-in leather, and the storied personality of weathered wood furniture.

09 Add a Stone Statement-Maker

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One material designers say you should definitely include in your organic modern interior? Stone. Rives recommends a stone accent wall, Curtis suggests a stone backsplash, and the Obermanns say there are all kinds of stones worth considering—“soapstone, carrara marble, travertine, slate”—as you fill your space with earthy accents and materials.

10 Soften Your Space With Cozy Accents

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One of the hallmarks of organic modern design? A warm, welcoming feel. Be sure to pair your sleekest pieces with plush pillows and fluffy blankets. These accents will soften your space, making your clean-lined modern furniture feel genuinely cozy. Just favor options made from organic textiles, and add them anywhere that needs an extra dose of comfort.

11 Make the Look Your Own

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“Organic modern can be beautiful in its minimalism, but it is a great base that you can build on with other designs on the spectrum,” the Obermanns say. So don’t focus on creating a picture-perfect example of organic modern style. Instead, draw inspiration from the style, and weave in other pieces and personal touches as you see fit. 

“A beautiful interior without story is a melody without lyrics, a vase without flowers,” Curtis says. “We believe anyone can create a modern style for a room. But layering our lives' stories—and creating a space that is deeply personal—should be the ultimate goal.”