Decorating Guides
Get the Look: Naturally Modern Design Keeps Things Casual
This contemporary rustic style pulls together textured fabrics in neutral colors, clean-lined furnishings and more
If you want to create an environment that’s serene, contemporary and not too serious, a look called “naturally modern” might be right for you. Combining clean-line furnishings, muted colors and rustic elements, this look works well in nearly all types of architecture. Here are my top 10 tips on how to create this casually chic look.
1. Mix in natural fibers to add depth to neutral colors. The naturally modern color palette is mostly neutral — white, oatmeal and gray. So you’ll want to spice it up by incorporating different textures. Linen- and cotton-upholstered furniture adds a layer of texture that keeps the look from coming across as too flat or one-dimensional.
2. Choose upholstered pieces with modern elements. Straight arms and straight skirts keep the space from leaning too traditional. A bench seat cushion, which is a single cushion on a sofa, also adds a modern touch. Worried about your space looking too cold or clinical? A slipcovered piece will create a casual, comfortable vibe.
3. Update traditional styles. If you still want to add a traditional touch or don’t want to buy all new furniture, sofas and chairs with classic elements can still work. This living room features a sofa and chair with traditional rolled arms, but the square cushions and solid-color upholstery keep the look modern.
4. Incorporate natural wood pieces. The word natural is in the name of this design style for a reason, so what better way to achieve the look than by incorporating a wood element. Two easy ways to do this: a live-edge table or a tree stump side table.
5. Elevate the look with lighting. Light fixtures are a great way to add some drama to your naturally modern look. The sleek lines and dark silhouette of this ceiling fixture break up the sea of white furnishings and other materials.
6. Bring in a bit of shine. Touches of mirror, chrome or nickel add some glamour while keeping the space from looking too rustic. (You aren’t re-creating a campground here.) This space does it with chrome bases on the chairs and occasional tables, as well as a mirrored accent piece.
7. Choose rugs in natural materials. Sisal and jute rugs provide another opportunity to bring in a natural material. Their rough texture balances out furniture upholstered in smoother linen.
8. Use modern occasional tables. Acrylic cocktail tables are a great fit in naturally modern rooms. Since they’re translucent, they won’t compete for attention with the other elements in the space.
9. Style up with sculptural side chairs. The metal frames on these armchairs are a nice contrast to the casual slipcover on the sofa. With all the soft, organic materials popular in a naturally modern space, it’s great to bring in a piece or two with a harder, industrial touch.
10. Use light-colored woods. Light wood finishes like white oak, natural maple and those with gray undertones keep the organic look going strong by letting you see the grain. (Darker stains can cover up the grain and make the pieces look heavier.) Light woods also look great with neutral fabrics.
More: When Mother Nature Meets Your Modern Nature
More: When Mother Nature Meets Your Modern Nature