2023 Furniture Design Trend #2: Organic Brutalism

Seemingly at odds with the softer side of design, Brutalism is an architectural style known for its use of utilitarian concrete and steel, yet its emphasis on materials, textures and construction is also highly expressive. And inside the home, those blocky, monolithic-like shapes become art forms. The rough-hewn wood of Brent Comber’s Béton Brut collection—crafted from Douglas fir and scorched with black hardwax oil—plays into the perceived permanence of béton (French for concrete) while commenting on the transience of nature. In another expression, Lee Broom’s Vesper lights are inspired by monumental Brutalist design, yet they evoke stillness, reverence and contemplation.

Our Favourite Examples of Organic Brutalism

Pictured above:

Chair (left): Handaxe chair by Seth Christou, $2,200, providehome.com

Rug (hanging): Laine rug in white by Sera Helsinki, $6,000, salari.com

Coffee table: Bates iron cocktail table, $3,222, onceatreefurniture.com

Floor lamp: Mei floor lamp from Roche Bobois, $2,075, roche-bobois.com

Chair (right): Béton Brut chair in Douglas fir by Brent Comber, $7,200, brentcomber.com

Rug (floor): One of a kind rug from Beni Ouarain, $16,900, salari.com

Karuma sideboard by Eric Jourdan for Ligne Roset, $4,860, livingspace.com

Vesper Duo suspension light by Lee Broom, $4,250, lightformshop.com

Mota burl-wood bar cabinet, $3,299, crateandbarrel.ca

Gulliver table lamp, by Pierre Dubois and Aimé Cécil for Roche Bobois, $2,020, roche-bobois.com

Arlo cocktail table, $2,553, onceatreefurniture.com

READ MORE: 3 More Design Trends You’ll Be Seeing Everywhere in 2023