Homes

Trend Guide 2016: Organic Luxe

Ultra-layered, monochromatic spaces play up texture instead of colour.

By Julia Dilworth /

Ultra-layered, monochromatic spaces play up texture instead of colour.

One of the biggest trends for 2016 is perhaps the subtlest—no contrasting pops of colour, but a look that’s wholly monochromatic. Layers of texture and muted pattern create visual interest in a design that’s tactile and calming, with a light, soothing palette and soft tones. The bespoke, buy-local movement is rooted here, in quality pieces handcrafted from sustainable materials that purport fine craftsmanship and tell a story. And the materials vary: for the Organic Luxe look, it’s a mix of stone, ceramics, naturally dyed fabrics and handwoven knits.

Inspiring Space: Organic Luxe

organic luxe trends

Calgary designer Amanda Hamilton layers a furry throw and soft pillows on a worn-in leather sofa (think Clooney factor: wrinkles add character) and wood furniture with equally obvious grain.

Key Pieces for Getting the Organic Luxe Look

Click through to see our favourite organic luxe pieces for the coziest trend of 2016.

The Anders loveseat ($1,267) from West Elm embodies the texture trend in feather grey distressed tapestry.westelm.ca

Concrete reaches new heights with this pendant ($149) by Kure.roveconcepts.com

Designer Shanan Campanaro creates bespoke pieces, like this Eskayel pillow (from $288) in Jangala/Waterstone, inspired by her paintings.providehome.com

These Western Red Cedar stools in lovely octagon shapes are created by B.C.-based Barter ($300 to $400). providehome.com

The dazzling Carrera cabinet by Ginger Jar (from $8,999) is proof the marble look isn’t going anywhere.omgitssmall.com

Crackled and almost shagreen, the large bamboo Tchon bowl by Bibol ($85) will be the highlight of any table. espacedonline.com

A particularly inviting iteration of the Henrik Pedersen-designed Adelaide chair ($922) in light-grey felt fabric with oak legs. boconcept.com

The round Casca vase ($140) is handmade using recycled wood chips and its plastic lining keeps it watertight. 18karatstore.com

You can’t go wrong with a soft-around-the-edges, handcrafted Diamond Bubble wool pouf ($316) from West Elm. westelm.ca

The Organic Luxe Paint Palette Screen Shot 2015-12-09 at 12.09.10 PM

Mix of Monochrome Be it white, grey, dusty blue or blush pink, pick one colour and work in its tints and shades. Here: Benjamin Moore’s Luxe and Behr’s Mauve Melody.

What the Pros Have to Say

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“The use of textures, whether in textiles or architecture, adds depth, interest and a more ‘luxe’ quality to our simple, modernist spaces. I think our simplistic spaces are hungry for contrast and richness.” —Stephanie Brown, Stephanie Brown Inc.

Julia Dilworth

Julia Dilworth