Organic Architecture: Everything You Need to Know About this Sustainable Design Style

This design choice focuses on integrating architecture with nature.

It's not a new concept that creatives are often influenced by nature. For centuries, designers and artists have drawn inspiration from the environment be it via colour palettes, shapes, or materials. In the world of architecture, those that take this inspiration one step further are the designers who embrace the 'organic architecture' philosophy.

One of the most groundbreaking and impactful design philosophies in modern times, organic architecture is gaining ground and has established itself as a major design trend in 2023. Defined by curved lines, natural materials, and a strong connection to the surrounding landscape, organic architecture blurs the lines between the man-made and the natural world.

Below, we explore exactly what organic architecture is and the positive elements of this design choice.

What is organic architecture?

The prolific architect Frank Lloyd Wright coined the term ‘organic architecture’ in 1908 and it gained popularity during the 1960s and '70s. The ethos of organic architecture is that it doesn't infringe on nature, instead, it seeks to coexist alongside it. Buildings are specifically designed in response to the landscape, topography, and climate, and not the other way around.

The most famous example of organic architecture is Wright's 'Fallingwater' home in Pennsylvania (pictured right). Built partly over a waterfall, this iconic design symbolises the harmony between people and nature and has been masterfully enmeshed in the forest landscape of Bear Run through thoughtful design.

Buildings designed with this style in mind appear to grow easily from their respective sites and look as though they have been shaped and created by nature itself. This harmony with nature is reflected in every element of a building from windows to doors, floors to furniture.

What are the positives of organic architecture?

According to Impakt, a global platform that empowers sustainability, organic architecture balances humans and nature. "The idea behind organic architecture is to put human life, nature and the built environment on the same level and build a sustainable ecosystem where all components support one another and thrive as a result," explains sustainability writer Luana Ackaouy.

By utilising natural elements, organic architecture aims to create an environment that is both aesthetically pleasing and sustainable. Because organic architecture seeks to work around the natural environment and not directly against it, it can be a more sustainable building choice because there is a reduced ecological impact. Sustainable buildings are environmentally friendly and have little to no negative impact on the natural environment.

In bringing us closer to nature, organic architecture has the potential to positively affect the occupant's well-being, health, and productivity by creating a relaxing environment with a visual link to nature.

Additionally, as each site will vary, this allows for truly unique homes to be created each time.

Key elements of organic architecture

Sympathetic, site-specific design.
Nature-derived structures and use of local natural materials to finish the home.
Use of renewable materials.
Living roofs, potted plants, and water features.
Passive solar design and energy efficient design features to minimise the use of fossil fuels.
Curved lines.
Neutral or muted tones.
Open-floor plans.
Plenty of ventilation to increase airflow for natural cooling.
Plenty of windows to allow for natural light to illuminate spaces.
Locally-sourced labour.

Why is organic architecture gaining popularity?

An increased interest in organic architecture can largely be attributed to the recognition of climate change and the need for us to leave less of a carbon footprint. Sustainability has been put at the top of many of our minds with more and more of us wanting to embrace more sustainable practices in our home lives. Looking for longer-term solutions and engaging in eco-friendly construction and building homes that preserve and protect nature are understandably becoming a priority for many.

The pandemic has also created an increased desire to develop homes that allow us to connect with the environment around us as we consider the effects that are surroundings have on our well-being.

As the world continues to urbanise, the qualities of organic architecture become increasingly important. While being environmentally sustainable is important to organic architects, it should be integral to all architectural design.