What look is inspired by nature with a touch of simplistic charm? Organic modern interior design, of course. This aesthetic mixes man-made and natural materials for perfect harmony. While modern interiors are typically white-washed and minimalist, adding organic touches introduces warm tones and rich, natural textures that zhuzh up any room.

If you’ve been trying to make your modern space feel more peaceful and zen or hoping to marry two looks you already love, organic modern style is the answer. However, this is often easier said than done. This design requires careful balance — lean too far to one side and it might not turn out how you hoped it would.

Want to get the look? Continue reading to learn how.

Elements of Organic Modern Interior Design

So, what makes this style unique from other home design options? For starters, the look gains inspiration from nature — hence the name organic modern. Here are the key characteristics of organic modern interior design:

Natural Materials

At the heart of organic modern design is a connection to nature. Think of items with natural beauty like unfinished wood, natural stone, linen and leather. These organic materials bring warmth and authenticity to your space, creating an environment that feels as grounded as it is sophisticated.

Neutral Color Palette

Modern organic interior design is all about soothing tones. Soft whites, creamy beiges, warm browns and muted greens set the stage, allowing your home to feel calm and inviting. Pops of color can make an appearance, but they’re always subtle and intentional.

Clean Lines and Minimalism

Simple, uncluttered spaces are a hallmark of this style. Modern furniture and decor feature clean lines and functional forms, emphasizing quality over quantity. Less is truly more when designing with an organic modern mindset.

Organic Shapes

Look for wooden furniture and simple decor with curved edges and asymmetrical shapes. These pieces mimic forms found in nature and add flow and balance to the room. Consider oval mirrors, round coffee tables or a gently curved sofa.

Bringing the Outdoors In

Indoor plants are a must! From lush fiddle-leaf figs to dainty succulents, greenery adds life and vibrancy to an organic modern space. Large windows or sliding glass doors also help blur the lines between indoor and outdoor living.

Textural Contrast

Pair smooth surfaces with tactile finishes to create depth and interest. A concrete coffee table next to a plush wool rug or a leather chair adorned with a woven throw can elevate the living space from ordinary to stunning.

Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Design

Sustainability is key to organic modern interiors. Look for reclaimed wood furniture, non-toxic finishes and energy-efficient lighting to ensure your design choices are as good for the planet as they are for your home.

Handcrafted and Artisan Pieces

Add character and charm with unique, handmade items. Whether it’s a hand-thrown ceramic vase or a custom-built dining table, these pieces tell a story and make your space truly one-of-a-kind.

Statement Lighting

Lighting in organic modern spaces is functional yet artistic. Oversized pendants, sculptural chandeliers or minimalist sconces provide illumination while doubling as works of art that tie the room together.

Functional Spaces

Every element in organic modern design serves a purpose. Furniture and home decor should be practical and beautiful, ensuring your space is stylish without losing functionality.

Achieving the Organic Modern Look

How do you take those elements and make them work for your home? No, you don’t have to use every single attribute in your space to execute the look. Actually, it’s best to use your personal style and existing home design as a foundation and then incorporate the above ideas as you see fit.

Need a bit of inspiration? We’ve got you covered! Use these modern interior design ideas as a jumping-off point:

Stay on the Light Side

While dark wood is gorgeous, there’s a time and place for it — and this look isn’t it. Rather than dark mahogany or walnut pieces, opt for pine, maple, oak or any other brighter wood options. A lighter wood emphasizes natural light and makes rooms feel more light and airy. Plus, it works well with earthy hues, creating an inviting and bright space.

Use Organic Decor Rather Than Symmetrical

The organic modern interior style typically uses clean, uniform lines, but you can make the space more organic with funky shapes and curves. Think furniture with rounded edges, curved mirrors, artwork with swirly, abstract shapes and dining room table centers that include oval vases and floral arrangements.

Put in Splashes of Color

Stick with a neutral palette for the large majority of the rooms, but don’t be afraid to bring in some colors, like green, blue or other shades that would work nicely. The shades that pair the best with modern interior design are ones that are inherent in nature, which keeps the theme centered on the great outdoors.

Have Fun With Greenery

We already mentioned that plant life is vital for this look, but you don’t have to have a green thumb to make it work. Whether it be succulents, flowers or patterned decor, nature-inspired goods can do your home proud. If you’re someone who loves gardening, play into that by having a potted herb garden in your kitchen or fresh-cut flowers in your living room. However, if you generally kill indoor plants just by looking at them, try adding a floral print accent wall in your bathroom or hanging a subtle nature-inspired wallpaper in your dining room.

Embrace Natural Stones

Your kitchen is a place for natural elements like marble or quartz to shine. A bright white and gray countertop can help your cooking space feel like a restaurant-grade kitchen. Or, bring in a slightly darker design by opting for a soapstone backsplash, which would pair perfectly with more contemporary aesthetics.

Throw in Textiles and Fibers

Once your house is finished, consider adding mixed textiles to make the rooms feel warm and cozy. Natural fibers like cotton and linen are great options if you’re going for a soft and breezy look — especially when paired with all those amazing metal and stone fixtures throughout your home.

Why Work With Decorating Den Interiors?

Yes, you can accomplish a lot on your own. But, you could do more with our team of interior decorating experts by your side. We can offer design guidance, budget assistance and project management. All you have to do is tell us what you want and we’ll make it happen.

Before getting started, fill out our design style quiz to figure out what types of interiors you lean toward. This can help inform the design process and pinpoint what you like.

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