If you find your dining room uninspiring, uninviting, or just plain boring, you’re not alone. I felt the same about mine—until I made a few simple upgrades that completely elevated the space. The best part? You don’t need a fancy home to create a stunning modern organic space. I live in a classic split-entry builder-grade home, and with a few thoughtful changes, I transformed my dining room into a warm space that embodies an organic modern design. Today I am sharing the secret to achieving an organic modern dining room so you can do the same.
before
After
what is An organic modern dining room design?
Organic modern design is all the hype right now and it is about balancing natural textures, earthy tones, and sleek, modern elements. The key to achieving this look is to mix and match your furniture and decor pieces rather than opting for a perfectly matched set. This creates a curated, authentic feel that’s unique to your space.
layout and flooring
My kitchen and dining room are part of an open-concept layout in a standard split-entry home. While this layout has its perks, the two areas had different flooring with an awkward cutoff that made the space feel disjointed. My solution? I replaced the flooring so that the kitchen and dining room had the same material—vinyl click tile. This seamless transition not only made the space feel bigger but also blended beautifully with the laminate flooring in the living room and hallway. A unified floor can make all the difference in creating a cohesive, modern feel.
This was an essential upgrade in my opinion to creating an organic modern dining room!
curated furniture pieces
Choosing the right furniture is essential for achieving an organic modern dining room. Start with your dining table, which often acts as the centerpiece. Look for materials like solid wood, reclaimed wood, or even concrete for a natural yet modern feel.
My dining table, a one-of-a-kind find from HomeSense, features natural wood grain and light wash. It’s important to pick a table that resonates with your personal style, whether it’s round, rectangular, or oval.
When it comes to chairs, don’t be afraid to mix materials and textures. I chose velvet chairs with gold legs from Structure, which added a touch of luxury and contrasted beautifully with the feel of the table.
Mixing chairs and tables that don’t perfectly match can make the space feel more relaxed and less formal—a hallmark of the organic modern look.
Here are some elements to consider when choosing furniture:
- Materials: Opt for a mix of natural materials like wood, stone, and rattan alongside modern materials like metal or velvet.
- Textures: Incorporate texture through upholstery, woven details, or matte finishes.
- Shapes: Combine sleek, modern silhouettes with softer, organic forms for balance.
- Color Palette: Stick to earthy tones like browns, creams, greens, and blacks to keep the space grounded and cohesive.
Take your time visiting various furniture stores or even online marketplaces. The beauty of organic modern design is that it’s about curating pieces that feel special and intentional, rather than buying a pre-matched set.
organic modern dining room lighting
Lighting plays a crucial role in creating an organic modern dining room. While I chose a statement fixture from Bouclair with a ceramic grain texture to anchor the space, there are many ways to layer lighting for a warm, earthy vibe:
- Wall Sconces: Add wall sconces with natural materials like brass, wood, or ceramic to create ambient lighting and enhance the organic aesthetic.
- Wall Candle Holders: Incorporate candle holders on the walls to add a soft, flickering glow that feels cozy and intimate.
- Tabletop Candles: Use a mix of pillar candles or tea lights in neutral-toned holders as part of your centerpiece for added ambiance.
- Floor or Table Lamps: If space allows, add a lamp with a textured shade or natural base for an extra layer of light.
Mixing different light sources not only creates depth but also allows you to adjust the mood depending on the occasion. The key is to lean into materials and designs that enhance the earthy, organic feel of the space.
adding contrast
Contrast is an essential element of organic modern design. Avoid choosing everything in the same shades or colors, as this can make the space feel flat and monotonous. Instead, focus on blending various earthy tones—think deep browns, warm beiges, soft greys, and muted greens. This variety creates visual interest and gives your dining room depth and character creating an organic modern dining room.
To bring contrast into my space, I painted the patio door Urbane Bronze. The dark, earthy tone added a dramatic focal point and balanced the light, neutral color palette of the room. It’s an easy way to introduce a bold element without overwhelming the space. If you’re considering painting a door, check out my previous blog post on how to paint an exterior door for a lasting finish.
I also added curtains around my patio door as this area was looking plain. I went TwoPages curatins (my favourite). These are the Jawara Linen Cotton triple-pleated curtains in the color Oat. The soft, neutral tone and texture really add to this space. For tips on how to hang curtains like a designer, see my dedicated blog post. Here is the link to these exact curtains.
You can use code MEGANDAUPHINEE15 to save 15% off your order!
curated decor pieces
No dining room is complete without wall art. I hung a macramé-weave piece that I made myself. As a former macramé artist, I love how the mix of wools and fibers brings texture and an earthy palette to the room. If macramé isn’t your style, textured canvas art is another great option.
Here is a close up photo of this wall hanging piece I made
For the table centerpiece, I followed the rule of three—combining items of varying heights to create visual interest. A mix of natural materials like wood, ceramic, or greenery adds warmth and keeps the organic modern vibe intact.
While I haven’t found the perfect rug yet, I know it will be the finishing touch to tie everything together. A rug adds softness and helps define the dining space within an open-concept layout. When choosing a rug, look for natural materials and patterns that complement your color scheme. Ensure that it is big enough that all the chairs are touching the rug!
conclusion: Organic Modern Dining Room
Creating a home you love doesn’t happen overnight. It takes time to curate pieces that feel authentic to you. By mixing natural materials, incorporating contrast, layering lighting, and selecting furniture with intention, you can transform any space—no matter the size or style of your home—into an inviting, organic modern retreat.
Whether you're refreshing your dining room or starting from scratch, focus on adding warmth through texture, balance through contrast, and personality through unique, thoughtfully chosen decor. The beauty of organic modern design is that it evolves over time, allowing you to make adjustments and additions as you find pieces that truly resonate with you.
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