There have been many examples of this since the 1930s, originating from the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s concept of organic architecture. Organic design can be communicated by the physical form and shape of the home, materiality, or orientation within a landscape. What makes this design modern, is the simplicity in this ideal; nothing about the design is overcomplicated.

See examples and learn more about Organic Modern architecture here.

We started the design of this house with deep intentions about creating great views from both inside and outside the house. After speaking with the client, and determining that their priority spaces were the kitchen and pool area, we wanted to give the greatest views to those areas. We were then able to work on the orientation of the structure. This took a few iterations, as we wanted simple yet strong looking structures. This resulted in essentially three boxes, connected yet rotated at different angles to create varying views. We were able to give the kitchen and living area the best view, without compromise, by using floor-to-ceiling glass. We connected the pool deck to the living space and oriented the pool so that it also faces the greatest view of the lot.

Rotating areas of the house, allows for different views to be created while adding privacy.

Functionality and connection between indoors and outdoors was an important goal of this project. As the clients indicated that bedrooms are used only for sleeping and the common areas of the house are usually the most widely used spaces for the family, we decided an open concept plan would suit them best. A central living room, dining room and kitchen, gave equal access to all family members and any guests entering the space. We wanted to create an experience of indoor-outdoor living as you enter the house. From the glass front door, you can see the living space, straight through the floor-to-ceiling windows to the outdoor lounge area, pool, and a view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Even as you enter the house, the view continues through the open concept plan to the kitchen with large glass windows giving you a 180 degree view.

When determining the clients’ priority spaces, we also discussed styles. The clients’ preferences fit the books of modern, minimalistic and rustic. This information, combined with the desire to orient the home toward the best views, gave us the Organic Modern design scheme. We chose materials like a variety of woods and natural stone, to appose concrete-look large-format tiles. We selected lime wash paint in neutral shades of browns, grays and greens to add a natural texture to the walls. We also chose glass doors and simple metal light fixtures to capture the modern, rustic and organic themes.