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Move over, modern farmhouse. There’s a new style icon in the house. Modern organic style is ready to make shiplap, barnwood and rustic charm a thing of the past.
While there is always room for multiple styles in the design world, the interior designers at The Elements in Ankeny are excited to put the fresh, sophisticated look to work.
The clean, modern lines of the modern organic style include furnishings with simple silhouettes scaled for the space. You won’t find puffy-and-oversized sofas or chairs so petite they don’t offer a cozy, comfortable place to hang out. Curated as the anchor of the style, the furniture offers the first layer of luxury. Textured fabrics — linens, leathers and other natural blends — team with a warm, neutral palette to make each element in the space satisfying to both your sight and your touch.
“It not only looks good, but it feels good,” said Michelle Orosco, interior designer and co-owner of The Elements. “It’s sophisticated, but livable.”
Imperfections and patinas are embraced in a modern organic space, adding character and interest without being fussy. One-of-a-kind items are encouraged, but with a select eye. Less is definitely more when it comes to layering in accessories.
Whether giving a room’s ceiling a stylish touch or warming up a wall of built-ins, wood plays an integral part of modern organic style. Gone are glossy finishes and red tones. Modern organic style thrives in woods’ natural, medium tones. It’s especially inviting when teamed with a mixture of metals and a variety of porous and sleek stone.
“It not only looks good, but it feels good,” said Michelle Orosco, interior designer and co-owner of The Elements. “It’s sophisticated, but livable.”
Wallpaper and color also lend interest to a modern organic home. But, intensity matters. Subtle grass cloths and other textured papers are the perfect flourish on an accent wall, in a powder room, or even on the ceiling. Muted hues with natural DNA such as spicy terra cotta, slate blues and moody greens are welcome colors. Just steer clear of the brightest shades on the paint deck.
“And [avoid] the most permanent of situations,” said Ryan Inks, interior designer and co-owner of The Elements. “You know, I wouldn’t do a purple sofa. I probably wouldn’t suggest painting an orange wall, but maybe [add color] in your pillows, your throws, accessories — things that you can trade out in two years and not feel bad about.”
Obviously nature is an important element of this style. So myriad plants and gorgeous oversized branches, whether real or faux, are accessories you don’t want to forget. Scatter them throughout the room.
Inks recommends giving faux a try, and he has curated a real-look collection at The Elements retail location in The District at Prairie Trail in Ankeny. “You can’t put a [living] plant where it looks good and also will do good. Usually [you’ll want it] in a corner with no light.”
The design world has room for a plethora of styles, but the latest and greatest resides in the warm tones and natural touches of modern organic.
Inks sums it up with five little words: “It just feels like home.”
> CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ELEMENTS AT PRAIRIE TRAIL
1380 SW Vintage Parkway, Ste. 107 | Ankeny, IA | www.ankenyelements.com
