Happy Birthday, Midweek Vibe.

This week marks three incredible years since we started publishing the Midweek Vibe emails! Can you believe it?

Thank you for your continued support as a loyal reader. We're proud to share that our emails currently achieve an impressive 55% open rate and a 3% click-through rate.

If you're interested, the first one sent on May 18, 2022, was titled "We Are the Champions" and explored the fascinating history of architecture as an Olympic event.

The most popular piece, read by nearly 3,000 people with a 3.7% click-through rate, was sent on July 22, 2022. The title "Falling Water's owner hired this architect to design his summer home."

We’ve occasionally partnered with sponsors. If you or someone you know might be interested, feel free to contact me using the contact information in my signature.

Now on to Organic Modernism

According to Zillow's latest research, organic modernism "is the new modern farmhouse," and buyers are becoming more willing to pay for homes with nature-inspired design choices that align with the style. In fact, homes with these features sell for as much as 3.7% more than expected (an extra $12,500 on the typical U.S. home).
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So, what exactly is organic modernism? The best definition I've found comes from architect George Clemens (OH).

One of the most famous buildings designed with organic modern architecture is Fallingwater.

Zillow’s Home Trends Expert, Amanda Pendleton, reports that organic modernism has been gaining popularity since the early days of the pandemic.

Plus, this trend is about sustainable design, which is a big deal for younger homebuyers looking to feel more connected to nature. Organic modernism gives them that "refuge from a chaotic world," as Pendleton puts it.
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​So, how do you take advantage of the trend?

Emphasizes harmony between human habitation and the natural world. Specify materials like raw wood, stone, linen, and patinated metals.

Celebrate the blemishes. Synthetic and manufactured materials are too perfect, in my opinion.

Incorporate neutral color palettes, organic shapes, and biophilic design elements like indoor plants and large windows to foster a connection to nature. Offer a calming refuge.
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According to the study, key features to focus on include,

• Natural Materials: Soapstone countertops, white oak floors, walnut cabinetry, and textured walls.
• Organic Shapes: Curved furniture, round mirrors, and sculptural decor.
• Biophilic Design: Integration of greenery and indoor-outdoor living spaces.
• Minimalism: Intentional decor with uncluttered layouts

If you’re working for developers or speculative builders, share this study with them to demonstrate how you can help boost their sales revenue. The rise of organic modernism is significantly influencing American home prices.

• Homes with organic modern features sell for up to 3.7% more than expected, translating to approximately $12,500 on a typical U.S. home.
• Soapstone countertops (3.5% premium), white oak floors (3.2%), and Venetian plaster walls (3%) seem to be the highest contributors to increased sale prices.
• Outdoor living spaces like outdoor kitchens or showers further boost resale value by up to 2.8%.

This concept is far from new—many of us at AIBD have championed it for years—but I’m thrilled to see it finally gaining widespread traction as a lasting trend. More homeowners are finally embracing sustainable, natural materials to enhance their spaces.

Good work, y'all. 👏🥳

Have a great rest of your week,

Steve Mickley, Executive Director

Email: steve.mickley@AIBD.org​

Let's chat: AIBD.org/meetsteve​