It’s nearly 2025, and there’s one trend that’s been stealing the show ever since the pandemic—bringing the outdoors in. Natural materials like stone, wood, and organic textiles are everywhere, and honestly, it’s no surprise. Studies have shown that being surrounded by natural elements can actually make us happier and more relaxed. Plus, who doesn’t want a home that looks stunning and supports sustainable living? This trend isn’t going anywhere, so let’s talk about why it works and how you can create a space that’s both stylish and eco-friendly.

Understanding Your Needs

Choosing Sustainability with Style

In our eco-aware world, choosing sustainable materials is crucial. Wood, textiles, and stone are not only eco-friendly but also stylish. Envision a sleek wooden dining table, cozy hand-woven rugs, and chic marble countertops. These choices keep the environment in mind without compromising on elegance.

For instance, Pottery Barn’s Toscana Extendable Dining Table combines rustic charm with modern sustainability. Crafted from FSC-certified wood, it’s a piece that’s built to last and perfect for hosting everything from family dinners to chic soirees.

Toscana Extending Dining Table

$1899

$1899per unit

Opting for Durability

Home updates can be costly and impractical. Natural materials are the solution with their lasting durability. Opt for woods like teak or oak that handle wear and tear gracefully, or stone countertops that stand the test of time. These materials ensure your home's style remains intact for years to come.

Stone, particularly marble or granite, is an excellent choice for kitchen counters or fireplace surrounds. The Pasar 42" Marble Coffee Table from CB2 is a stunning way to incorporate this enduring material into your living space, blending functionality with sophisticated style.

Pasar 42" Round Black Marble Coffee Table

$1999

$1999per unit

Tailoring to Your Space

Decorating Small and Large Spaces

Natural materials are incredibly versatile, no matter the size of your area. For smaller spaces, lighter woods like maple or ash can make rooms feel airier and more open. Pair them with breathable fabrics like linen or cotton to enhance the effect.

In larger spaces, embrace bold textures and darker wood tones to create a luxurious, grounded feel. Add a stone accent wall or large-format tiles for an impactful statement.

The Mini Pebble Wool Rug from West Elm is an excellent textile option that works beautifully in both compact and expansive areas. Its organic texture and neutral tones complement wood and stone effortlessly.

Mini Pebble Wool Jute Rug

$299

$299per unit

Harmonizing an Open Floor Plan

Open floor plans are all about flow, and natural materials can help define distinct zones without breaking visual continuity. Matching woods across flooring and cabinets creates a cohesive look. Stone elements, like a tiled backsplash or fireplace, anchor key areas, while textiles such as rugs and drapes can subtly delineate spaces.

Consider adding the Belgian Flax Linen Curtains By Pottery Barn, which combines soft, earthy tones with an elegant drape, enhancing the harmony of your open-plan design.

Custom Belgian Flax Linen Curtain, 72 x 113", Classic Ivory

$253

$253per unit

Enhancing Your Home’s Aesthetics

Personalize Your Style

Natural materials cater to all design preferences. Here’s how you can tailor them to match your aesthetic:

• Modern Minimalism: Streamlined stone and simple wooden furniture bring a sleek yet cozy vibe to your space. The Parsons Reclaimed Wood Console from West Elm exemplifies this look with clean lines and sustainable craftsmanship.

• 

  Emmerson® Expandable Dining Table (72"–93")

  

  $1599

  $1599per unit

  

• Traditional Elegance: Dark woods with intricate carvings and plush fabrics elevate a room’s grandeur. Pair a mahogany dining set with velvet dining chairs for a stately atmosphere.

• Rustic Vibes: Exposed wooden beams, handmade textiles, and stone accents make your space feel warm and inviting. A chunky knit throw and reclaimed wood coffee table are perfect touches.

• Eclectic Mix: Combine various woods, colorful textiles, and playful stone patterns for a unique, personalized style. Don’t shy away from layering textures to create depth and interest.

Merging Elements Smoothly

• Combining Wood and Stone: Pairing light wood with neutral stone creates a serene atmosphere, while dark wood with dramatic marble exudes bold elegance. For an affordable yet stylish option, explore the Scarlett Marble Nightstand, which combines both materials seamlessly.

• 

  Scarlett Marble Nightstand

  

  $599

  $599per unit

  

• Textiles as a Link: Use fabrics to tie together wood and stone features. A glossy silk throw can mimic polished wood’s gleam, while a soft wool rug can echo the texture of honed stone.

Maintaining Your Furniture and Decor

Knowing how to care for your chairs will not only help you decide if it works for your lifestyle, but caring for it from day one keeps it looking like new for a long time. Here’s how to care for different materials:

Opt for decor that embraces superb natural materials while supporting sustainability. Whether you’re drawn to the sleek minimalism of modern design or the cozy allure of rustic charm, these timeless elements ensure your home remains stylish and eco-friendly for years to come.

Did you know that there is now a way to access discounts that were previously only available to interior designers?Join Designer Discount Club and never pay retail for furniture again - it's free to join! Save big on furniture from stores you already love, like Pottery Barn, West Elm, Crate and Barrel, and more. We'd love to see how you style your living room! Join our Facebook group and share your questions, ideas and spaces — we're excited to see your creative ideas come to life!