Organic modern design is a harmonious blend of natural elements and contemporary aesthetics. This style emphasizes the use of natural materials, a neutral color palette, and minimalist decor to create spaces that are both functional and inviting.

That’s exactly what Instagrammer, Kristina Evans has achieved in her home. The flowing shapes, natural textures, and earthy color palette all lend to a successful organic modern design. Let’s take a deeper dive into the principles of organic modern and how Kristina leveraged them in her design.

Cozy living room with fireplace and wood mantel.


Understanding Organic Modern Design

Organic modern design is characterized by the seamless integration of natural materials and modern elements. Key features of this style include:

  • Natural materials like wood, stone, linen, and other organic materials are staples of this design style.
  • Neutral color palette like earth tones like whites, beiges, browns, and greens
  • Clean lines and minimalism focus on simplicity and functionality with clean, straight lines.
  • Plants and greenery incorporate life and freshness in the space.

Choosing the Right Materials

Selecting natural, sustainable materials is crucial for achieving an organic modern design. Consider using wood, such as reclaimed, bamboo, or sustainably sourced options, for furniture and decor to bring warmth and character to your space.

Stone materials like marble, granite, or concrete can be incorporated for surfaces and accents, adding texture and a sense of solidity. For textiles, opt for organic cotton, linen, wool, and other natural fabrics for upholstery, curtains, and rugs to enhance the natural feel and comfort of your home.

How Kristina Did It

Kristina sticks to natural or natural-looking materials. Wood, stone, stucco, cotton, linen, jute, etc. are all key players in the design.

Bedroom with unique curved bump out fireplace with mantel.


Creating a Neutral Color Palette

A soft, earthy color palette is fundamental to organic modern design. Stick to earth tones as the foundation of your color scheme, using whites, beiges, browns, and greens to create a calming and cohesive look.

Add pops of color through natural elements like plants, artwork, or decorative items in muted tones to enhance the organic feel without overwhelming the space.

How Kristina Did It

If you look closely, you’ll notice that Kristina’s house is all neutral colors. The reason you don’t really notice that is because there is so much else to be interested in. The texture and patterns in the space more than make up for the fact that all the colors are neutral.

Integrating Modern Fireplaces

Fireplaces are a focal point in many homes and can significantly enhance the organic modern aesthetic. Here’s how to choose and style the perfect fireplace.

Types of Fireplaces

Electric fireplaces are ideal for a sleek, minimalist look; they are energy-efficient and easy to install. Choose models with a streamlined design that blend seamlessly with your decor. Surrounding your fireplace with natural stone or concrete can add texture and a rustic feel, embodying the juxtaposition of modern and organic elements.

Additionally, a mantel made from reclaimed wood adds character and history to your space, reinforcing the use of sustainable materials.

Placement and Styling Tips

Position your fireplace as the focal point of your living room, surrounded by comfortable seating and natural elements like a wooden coffee table and potted plants. Complement your fireplace with decor items such as stone sculptures, wooden bowls, and natural fiber rugs to enhance the organic feel of your space.

How Kristina Did It

Kristina blended modern and organic in more ways than one. The linear style fireplace is a contemporary look that keeps the design relevant. It is also an electric fireplace with loads of cutting-edge technology and perks. Yet, the overall effect is natural and cozy.

Kristina used the Modern Ember Highmark electric fireplace.

Shop the Fireplace

Incorporating Natural Light

Maximizing natural light is essential for this design style. Install large windows to allow plenty of natural light to flood the space. Use sheer curtains or blinds to diffuse light without blocking it, and position mirrors strategically to reflect light and make the space feel larger.

How Kristina Did It

A champion of natural light, Kristina keeps windows uncovered and uses mirrors and light paint colors to amplify natural light. She also uses minimalist accent lighting like sconces, simple pendants, and small lamps.

Fireplace and mantel with small tree next to it to add some greenery.

Adding Greenery and Natural Decor

Plants play a significant role in bringing the organic element into your modern design. Consider incorporating various types of plants, such as succulents, ferns, and palms, which are great choices for this style. Enhance the organic feel by using natural decor elements like stone vases, wooden bowls, and other similar items.

How Kristina Did It

Greenery punctuates Kristina’s home at every glance. She’s especially fond of “stems” or one or two leaf-laden branches in a vase. This is model organic modern with spare minimalism blended with natural.

Furniture and Accessories

When choosing furniture and accessories, prioritize clean lines and natural materials. Opt for sofas with linen or cotton upholstery to add a natural, soft touch. Choose wooden coffee tables and side tables to introduce warmth and texture into your space. Use rugs made from natural fibers like jute or wool to add softness and coziness. When it comes to accessories, take a minimalist approach by avoiding clutter and selecting functional yet beautiful items. Incorporate decorative pieces made from natural materials to maintain the organic feel throughout your home.

How Kristina Did It

Kristina favors stucco-like texture in some places to add natural texture but uses modern materials to do it. For instance, the fireplace is concrete board with her own DIY custom finish. The mantel looks like a slab of reclaimed wood, but is concrete.

Kristina used the Modern Ember Ashcroft concrete fireplace mantel shelf.

Shop the Mantel

Creating an organic modern design in your home involves a careful balance of natural materials and modern aesthetics. By incorporating elements like natural light, a neutral color palette, greenery, and modern fireplaces, you can achieve a space that is both functional and inviting. Experiment with different combinations and personalize the style to reflect your unique taste.