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A white and light wood kitchen with a marble backsplash, designed by Nina Takesh.

Organic Modern Kitchen Design: Embracing Natural Sophistication

by Nina Takesh

Photo Credit: Nina Takesh

FEBRUARY 13, 2024 | 14 min read

Welcome to the world of Organic Modernism in kitchen design! 

I'm thrilled to share this enchanting concept with you. It's all about blending nature's calming vibes with modern flair – something I've been passionate about as an interior designer. 

In this journey, simplicity and smart design take center stage. I've always believed that sophistication comes from keeping things simple and purposeful. Every item in a space serves a role, ensuring a clutter-free yet chic environment. 

My work revolves around carefully selecting and placing elements that seamlessly blend with nature's beauty. This approach crafts kitchens that aren't just elegant but also practical, embodying the essence of Organic Modernism.

Table of Contents

What is Organic Modern Design?
Elements of an Organic Modern Kitchen
Layout
Materials
Colors
Appliances
Furniture
Accessories
Technology

What is Organic Modernism Design?

Let's dive into the heart of Organic Modern design! 

It's this fantastic blend where modern simplicity meets the rich beauty of nature. Picture sleek, minimalist vibes mixed with the warmth of natural elements like wood and stone. 

A series of images of a white, well-lit kitchen with lots of natural fibers, glass and stone. Designed by Nina Takesh. A series of images of a white, well-lit kitchen with lots of natural fibers, glass and stone. Designed by Nina Takesh.

Photo Credit: Nina Takesh

In Organic Modernism, we create kitchens that are both chic and cozy. We keep those clean lines and uncluttered spaces from modern minimalism but add touches like wooden cabinets and stone countertops for that natural, inviting feel. 

It's all about balance – capturing the timeless beauty of nature's aesthetics while keeping the functionality of modern design. This combo creates kitchens with an irresistible charm, making Organic Modernism an enduring, captivating style that brings a unique, inviting vibe to any space.

Elements of an Organic Modern Kitchen by Nina Takesh

At the core of Organic Modernism lies the art of simplicity. Picture uncluttered spaces where each item has a purpose, contributing to an elegant yet functional kitchen

Texture is key.
Playing with contrasts: soft linens against raw stone, smooth marble paired with supple leather, these add depth and allure to the kitchen space.

Layering brings it to life.
From cozy blankets to textured decor like crystals and stones, layering elements add personality, making the kitchen feel inviting and complete.

Bringing nature in.
Houseplants, foliage, and marble sculptures infuse tranquility and a connection to the outdoors, a fundamental aspect of Organic Modernism.

Layout: Merging Space with Nature

In Organic Modern kitchen design, the layout isn't just about organizing cabinets and appliances. It's an art form that blends the kitchen seamlessly with nature's beauty.

Space matters significantly.
Embracing openness allows the kitchen to merge harmoniously with its environment. Large windows and glass doors erase boundaries, fostering a seamless connection between inside and outside.

Natural light is paramount.
Ample sunlight floods the space through well-placed windows and skylights, reducing reliance on artificial lighting. This not only conserves energy but also emphasizes the kitchen's natural elements.

Greenery becomes an essential part of the design.
Imagine vibrant houseplants or vertical gardens integrated within the kitchen, enhancing the link to nature and enhancing indoor air quality.

The layout isn't merely practical; it's a design philosophy. It blurs the distinction between indoor and outdoor spaces, celebrating light, openness, and nature. The result? Kitchens that aren't just visually appealing but also provide a serene and healthy atmosphere.

Materials: Nature Meets Elegance

Organic Modern kitchen design hinges on the materials chosen, central to capturing its essence. This style thrives on uniting nature's beauty with contemporary elegance through organic materials, anchoring kitchens in a captivating and natural allure. 

Wood takes the spotlight.
Its warmth, versatility, and eco-friendly nature make it indispensable. Then there's stone: marble, slate, and granite bring luxury and natural elegance. Natural fibers like jute and rattan also play a vital role, cozying up spaces through woven chair seats and window shades.

But what truly sets this style apart is the seamless blending of these materials. I meticulously juxtapose wood's ruggedness with marble's smoothness, creating a dynamic, luxurious contrast while maintaining minimalist elegance.

A round, donut-like vase sitting on a stone display platform with dried florals in it. A round, donut-like vase sitting on a stone display platform with dried florals in it.

Photo Credit: Karolina Grabowska Photography

Stone

Marble, slate, and granite – they're the key players bringing elegance and a natural essence to these spaces. 

 

My standout choice? Marble. Its sleek surface and distinctive veining embody nature's elegance, elevating kitchens to luxurious realms within Organic Modernism. Plus, I love using it for standout pieces like marble sculptures, bringing a refined feel to the kitchen. 

 

Slate, on the other hand, brings durability and a rustic charm. Those earthy tones and natural textures make it the perfect choice for durable, stylish flooring that keeps things feeling organic. 

 

Granite? It's all about practicality. Scratch-resistant, heatproof, and stain-proof, it's the top pick for countertops, offering style and functionality. 

 

Blending these stones is an art. I focus on balancing their natural beauty with modern usability. Think mixing marble's elegance with slate's roughness – it's about creating a textured harmony that brings the outdoors inside our modern kitchen spaces.

Stone

Marble, slate, and granite – they're the key players bringing elegance and a natural essence to these spaces. 

 

My standout choice? Marble. Its sleek surface and distinctive veining embody nature's elegance, elevating kitchens to luxurious realms within Organic Modernism. Plus, I love using it for standout pieces like marble sculptures, bringing a refined feel to the kitchen. 

 

Slate, on the other hand, brings durability and a rustic charm. Those earthy tones and natural textures make it the perfect choice for durable, stylish flooring that keeps things feeling organic. 

 

Granite? It's all about practicality. Scratch-resistant, heatproof, and stain-proof, it's the top pick for countertops, offering style and functionality. 

 

Blending these stones is an art. I focus on balancing their natural beauty with modern usability. Think mixing marble's elegance with slate's roughness – it's about creating a textured harmony that brings the outdoors inside our modern kitchen spaces.

A round, donut-like vase sitting on a stone display platform with dried florals in it. A round, donut-like vase sitting on a stone display platform with dried florals in it.

Photo Credit: Karolina Grabowska Photography

A close-up view of a white, round table with minimalist wood chairs. A close-up view of a white, round table with minimalist wood chairs.

Photo Credit: Cup of Couple Photography

Wood

Wood is the heartbeat of Organic Modern kitchen design. Varieties like oak, teak, and bamboo take the spotlight, offering a diverse palette to enhance kitchen aesthetics. For me, letting the natural grain and texture of wood shine is key to harmonizing modern design with organic authenticity. 

 

In Organic Modern kitchens, wood features prominently in cabinetry flooring, and ceiling accents, bringing an earthy warmth to the space. I prioritize preserving the innate beauty of woods like oak, teak, and bamboo, each showcasing unique grain patterns and colors that seamlessly complement modern elements. 

 

Oak's distinctive grain patterns define warm and characterful cabinetry, while teak's golden hues and moisture resistance add a touch of luxury to flooring. Bamboo, celebrated for sustainability, finds its place in ceiling accents, reflecting both design and environmental responsibility. 

 

My approach values the natural beauty of wood. I avoid heavy staining or finish to maintain their authenticity, fostering a genuine connection between the kitchen and the organic world.

A close-up view of a white, round table with minimalist wood chairs. A close-up view of a white, round table with minimalist wood chairs.

Photo Credit: Cup of Couple Photography

Lots of Color and Texture

Using unexpected colors and vintage pieces makes your home stand out, like how he chose a two-tone marble in his Palm Springs kitchen. When combined with the art of cooking, the result is the magic that comes with creating a stunning space.

A rattan chair paired with a natural-fiber basket and blanket in varying shades of beige and brown. A rattan chair paired with a natural-fiber basket and blanket in varying shades of beige and brown.

Photo Credit: Ksenia Chernaya Photography

Natural Fibers

Natural fibers like jute, rattan, and wool are the secret sauce in Organic Modern kitchen design, adding texture and an organic vibe to the space. I'm all about integrating these materials for an inviting, nature-inspired kitchen experience. 

 

Jute rocks those woven chair seats, bringing rustic charm and comfort. Rattan, being flexible, creates warm window shades that diffuse light beautifully. Wool? It's all about softness and warmth, perfect for cozy decor like rugs and cushions.

 

For me, choosing these natural fibers aligns perfectly with Organic Modernism. They not only add texture and warmth but also bridge the kitchen with nature. I consider their eco-friendliness and how they add that touchy-feely quality to the space. Take jute, for example, its rough texture against smoother surfaces like wood or marble? That's a visual treat!

 

I love mixing things up – rattan's ruggedness against sleek metal or stone creates this cool texture play. And wool? It brings that cozy vibe, making the kitchen feel like the heart of the home. These fibers balance modern lines and the natural world's textures.

Taking Risks

Take a perfect room, and do something a little risky to elevate the design. Through innovative artwork selections and bold colors, he created a visually interesting and arresting space by thinking outside the box.  His goal is to inspire people when they come into his spaces to do something bold and risky in their own projects.

A rattan chair paired with a natural-fiber basket and blanket in varying shades of beige and brown. A rattan chair paired with a natural-fiber basket and blanket in varying shades of beige and brown.

Photo Credit: Ksenia Chernaya Photography

A close-up view of a white cabinet with two small, round brass knobs at the center. A close-up view of a white cabinet with two small, round brass knobs at the center.

Photo Credit: Kulbir Photography

Metals

Metal has its place in Organic Modern kitchens, adding a unique touch with aged bronze, matte black, and copper patinas. I'm all about blending these metals with organic materials for a seamless mix of modern and natural. 

 

Then there's matte black. I opt for it in lighting fixtures and appliances. Its sleek, modern appearance stands out against natural textures, creating a striking contrast in the space. 

 

As for aged brass, that's my preference. It adorns cabinet handles and faucets, offering a weathered warmth that perfectly syncs with the kitchen's organic vibe, adding a touch of sophistication. 

 

Copper patinas tell a story of evolution. I love using them for decor; they evolve, just like nature, creating that sense of connection and growth. 

 

The secret? Thoughtful selection and placement of these metals. Pairing them with wood, stone, and natural fibers makes them integral to Organic Modern design, a perfect blend of modernity and the natural world

A close-up view of a white cabinet with two small, round brass knobs at the center. A close-up view of a white cabinet with two small, round brass knobs at the center.

Photo Credit: Kulbir Photography

Playing with Scale

Bigger, statement-worthy pieces not only draw conversation but also fill the space in the room. His most recent renovation had a high ceiling above the large island, so Sanders procured a giant Monstera and placed it on top of the island, forcing his guests to interact with him and the foliage.

Hexagon-shaped white tile creates a honeycomb pattern backsplash, with a simple spice rack hanging on it. Hexagon-shaped white tile creates a honeycomb pattern backsplash, with a simple spice rack hanging on it.

Photo Credit: RDNE Stock project

Glass & Ceramics

Glass and ceramics might not seem 'natural' at first glance, but in Organic Modern kitchens, they're game-changers. I'm all about weaving these elements into my designs, adding a touch of sophistication to the organic vibe.

 

Glass Panels:
They're about flooding the kitchen with natural light and connecting it to the outdoors. Whether it's through large windows or cabinet doors, glass brings transparency and a sense of openness.


Ceramic Tiles:
Picture earthy finishes: matte or textured ceramic tiles for backsplashes and flooring. They're not just durable; they add a tactile depth to the kitchen's visual appeal.

Colors: Nature’s Palette

In Organic Modern kitchen design, the color palette mirrors nature's serene tones. Soft beiges, muted greens, and warm browns define this palette, bringing tranquility indoors. 

Soft beiges create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, allowing organic materials to take center stage. Muted greens evoke the freshness of nature, infusing indoor spaces with outdoor serenity. Browns, ranging from rich chocolates to warm taupes, add depth and grounding, emphasizing the organic essence of the design. 

Thoughtfully applying these colors creates a sense of balance and harmony, reminiscent of the natural world. They serve as a canvas, spotlighting the textures and materials of Organic Modernism, resulting in kitchens that exude serenity and organic beauty.

A series of swatches of soft colors, including beige, layered with wood, stone and other natural materials to form a pallet. A contemporary luxury kitchen in white marble and light wood featuring a suite of JennAir® appliances.

“Soft beiges create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, allowing organic materials to take center stage.”

Photo Credit: Karolina Grabowska Photography.

Appliances: Modern Tech in Nature’s Embrace

Blending sleek, eco-friendly appliances with nature's charm is key. For me, it's about finding that perfect balance. I believe in integrating state-of-the-art appliances without overshadowing the beauty of Organic Modernism. 

I choose modern appliances with clean lines, often in matte finishes or soft colors that complement earthy tones dominating Organic Modern designs. 

Strategic placement is key. Think built-in refrigerators and dishwashers cleverly tucked behind cabinetry, maintaining a seamless look. Induction cooktops? They offer sleek, high-performance cooking while keeping that minimalist vibe. 

By integrating tech subtly, I create kitchens where modern convenience and nature's beauty coexist, resulting in spaces that are both practical and visually stunning.

Furniture: Crafted by Nature

Furniture sets the tone in Organic Modern kitchens, highlighting nature's forms and materials. I've got my favorites when it comes to furniture – think wooden tables flaunting beautiful grain patterns and stone countertops. 

In Organic Modernism, it's about love seats, coffee tables, dining sets, and end tables that echo nature. Love seats sport organic shapes and cozy fabrics, while coffee tables made of wood or stone showcase stunning textures. Dining sets and chairs blend seamlessly with earthy tones, creating a unified look. As for end tables, they're both functional and natural accents.

“it's about love seats, coffee tables, dining sets, and end tables that echo nature”

Accessories: Nature’s Finishing Touches

Accessories act as the final touches, enhancing the space's organic essence. Wooden bowls, stone vases, and lush green plants are vital in bridging the kitchen with nature's aesthetic. 

Crafted from natural wood, wooden bowls exude warmth and add tactile appeal while serving a dual function as functional and organic design elements. On the other hand, stone vases, with their unique shapes and textures, infuse a sense of opulence and genuine authenticity. 

My selection process for these accessories revolves around finding pieces that harmonize with the Organic Modern philosophy. These items are carefully chosen to enrich the kitchen's overall ambiance, contributing visual interest and a serene atmosphere. Placed thoughtfully, these accessories bring a sense of wholeness to the kitchen, establishing a profound connection to the natural world.

A series of images featuring a light, bright Organic Modern kitchen designed by Nina Takesh. A series of images featuring a light, bright Organic Modern kitchen designed by Nina Takesh.

“Accessories act as the final touches, enhancing the space's organic essence.”

Photo Credit: Nina Takesh

Technology: A Modern Touch to Organic Spaces

Modern technology in Organic Modern kitchens isn't just about functionality; it's about blending seamlessly with nature-inspired design. For me, integrating tech means finding that sweet spot between innovation and organic aesthetics. 

The trick? Ensuring tech feels like a natural part of the kitchen's design. Imagine under-cabinet lighting with motion sensors, not just functional but adding to the kitchen's visual appeal. 

Smart home systems? They're discreetly integrated, letting you control lighting and climate without disrupting the minimalist vibe. Appliance interfaces? Often touch-controlled, keeping those clean lines intact. 

In my designs, it's about tech enhancing functionality while preserving natural harmony. I carefully integrate these elements to create kitchens that are both modern and invitingly organic, striking that perfect balance between innovation and nature's beauty.

Nina Takesh’s Organic Modern Masterpieces

Welcome to my 'No Kitchen Kitchen,' a space that encapsulates the perfect blend of style and practicality within the Organic Modern design ethos. This kitchen is my pride and joy, embodying sophistication and refinement at its core. Featuring sumptuous Calacatta Paola Vagli countertops and custom cabinets graced with discreetly hidden hinges, all bearing my exclusive Nina Takesh applied molding, each element was handpicked to elevate the organic beauty of the space and infuse a touch of opulence. 

The layout is open and airy, a signature of the 'no kitchen kitchen' style. It not only ensures a seamless flow but also harmonizes effortlessly with the surrounding environment. Here, culinary creativity thrives in an elegant and serene atmosphere. 

This kitchen is a chef's dream, equipped with modern conveniences that heighten functionality while preserving an uncluttered and sophisticated appearance. In Organic Modernism, achieving equilibrium between form and function is key, creating spaces that are both visually captivating and eminently practical.

A bold, white kitchen featuring a lot of white marble and plenty of organic wood. Designed by Nina Takesh. A bold, white kitchen featuring a lot of white marble and plenty of organic wood. Designed by Nina Takesh.

Photo Credit: Nina Takesh

A pristine white palette, adorned with dazzling brass accents, sets a visual tone of refined sophistication and elegance. But it’s the Nero Marquina Low marble island that steals the spotlight, symbolizing luxury and utility in perfect harmony. Organic Modernism places significant emphasis on organic materials, and this marble island exemplifies this ethos. Its exquisite surface not only adds opulence but also serves as a central functional hub for culinary endeavors. 

The embrace of warm white oak wood defines the heart and soul of this kitchen, infusing it with an inviting and enduring aura. The herringbone floor, a classic touch, roots this space in timeless aesthetics, complementing the Organic Modernism theme with its enduring pattern, adding depth and character to the overall design.

Throughout the kitchen, brass accents lend both sophistication and functionality, creating a space where aesthetics and practicality merge beautifully.

Conclusion

In the realm of interior design, Organic Modernism kitchens stand as a testament to harmonizing nature's beauty with contemporary minimalism. Curating these spaces isn't just my expertise; it's a passion for the unique aesthetic that Organic Modernism brings into our homes. 

Exploring the roots and key elements of Organic Modernism unveils its profound impact on how we perceive and utilize kitchens. Embracing mid-century and Danish design, reviving vintage furniture, and spotlighting wood as a foundational element have all shaped this style's evolution. 

The 'less is more' mantra celebrates simplicity, birthing kitchens that blend functionality with elegance. Neutral color palettes and natural materials like wood, jute, stone, and bamboo create an inherent connection to the natural world. 

Textures play a pivotal role, adding warmth and character. Layers of blankets, tactile items, and natural elements such as foliage and marble sculptures weave depth and serenity into these spaces. 

While inspired by nature, Organic Modernism embraces technology. Sleek appliances from JennAir seamlessly merge modern convenience with organic charm. 

Organic Modernism kitchens offer a sanctuary, where simplicity meets sophistication, celebrating nature's beauty. I'm eager to witness this design philosophy's continued evolution, crafting more spaces that capture its essence.

Written by Nina Takesh

DESIGNER

Nina is the founder, CEO and creative force behind residential and commercial interior design firm, Nina Takesh, where she creates unique interiors for clients across the world.

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