Natural Materials for a Grounded, Timeless Home
When you walk into a home that just feels right — warm, grounded, alive — chances are, natural materials are playing a big role. Authentic stone, real wood, organic fibers, and raw textures create an emotional connection. They invite you to exhale, settle in, and feel at home.
In my laid-back luxe designs, natural materials aren't just accents — they're foundational. But with so many beautiful options, how do you choose the right ones? Today, I’m highlighting some of the core natural materials I love to use and why they make all the difference.
Wood
Wood is a must, and so easy to incorporate in your home.
Wood is warm, timeless, and versatile. Wide-plank oak floors, walnut built-ins, or a reclaimed table with a story like the one shown here, bring richness and authenticity to any space. Look for FSC-certified woods or reclaimed options to keep it sustainable.
(Table is made of reclaimed boxcar wood from 75+ year old trains, complete with all the grooves and indentions from years of carrying cargo.)
Stone
Stone brings a sense of permanence, ruggedness, and natural elegance.
Whether it’s a stone fireplace. soapstone countertop, a marble backsplash, or a limestone fireplace, natural stone offers organic movement and depth that manufactured materials simply can't replicate. Stone also adds needed texture to a space.
Linen
Linen is lightweight, breathable, and textured — perfect for drapery, bedding, and upholstery. It has a casual elegance that suits everything from relaxed coastal homes to refined organic modern spaces.
Linen drapes soften the space and add dimension and height to the walls.
Leather
Full-grain leather brings a tactile richness and ages beautifully over time. Leather never goes out of style and adds sophistication to a room. It is perfect companion to pair with a upholstered sofa. A well-worn leather chair or ottoman only gets better, telling the story of your life with every crease and mark.
Designer Tip: A little leather goes a long way, so keep it consigned to chairs and ottomans with a fabric sofa. Seating groups in a room looks best mixed, so don’t purchase a living room set all in one style and finish.
Cork
Soft underfoot, eco-friendly, and naturally insulating, cork is an unsung hero in design. It’s ideal for flooring, wall treatments, and even small accent pieces like trays and table bases. Cork is also an excellent sound absorber.
Source: The Habitus Collection
Bamboo/Rattan
Fast-growing and sustainable, bamboo is a smart alternative to traditional hardwoods. It’s durable enough for flooring and cabinetry but also beautiful in lighting, furniture, and accessories.
I love adding warmth and texture with woven window shades made of bamboo, grasscloth, rattan and other natural materials.
Wool
Wool rugs, throws, and upholstery are not only cozy but naturally resilient and dirt-resistant. Choose undyed or minimally processed wools to keep your space feeling as natural as possible.
This wool rug adds luxurious soft texture to this space. (Source unknown)
Clay and Ceramic
Hand-thrown pottery, clay tile, and artisanal ceramics add an earthy, grounded element to your home. Each piece is perfectly imperfect, lending a beautiful handmade quality.
How to Pull It All Together
Mix textures thoughtfully: Pair smooth stone with nubby linen, rough-hewn wood with sleek ceramics.
Keep the palette natural: Let the materials’ true colors and textures shine without overcomplicating the scheme.
Focus on craftsmanship: Choose pieces where the hand of the maker is evident — it’s what gives a home soul.
Aim for balance: Layering natural materials creates richness, but too much of one element can feel heavy. Keep it curated and intentional.
The Bottom Line
Choosing natural materials thoughtfully transforms a house into a soulful home. It's not about chasing trends—it's about curating a timeless space that feels deeply rooted, effortlessly beautiful, and truly livable.
If you're ready to create a home grounded in nature and layered with meaning, I'd love to help. Let's bring your vision to life — one beautiful, authentic material at a time.
Whether you need a quick consultation or full-service design help, I’m here to make your home feel just right. Let’s create something beautiful together!
Book a session with Starla Campbell Home!
.