The mammalian Organ of Corti is a single layered sheet of epithelial cells constructed in a checkerboard-like pattern with each 'block type' representing two types of cells – sensory hair cells (HCs) and a-sensory supporting cells (SCs). This highly organized pattern emerges from an initially disordered undifferentiated cell lattice in a process involving coordinated differentiation and morphological rearrangements. However, it is still unclear what are the processes and mechanisms driving this transition into organized patterning. To address this question, we combine mathematical modeling and live inner ear explant imaging. On the modeling side we use a 2D vertex model - describing the mechanics of epithelial tissues – to describe the transition from disordered to ordered pattern. We show how a combination of external boundary conditions and reduced tensions between HCs and SCs, can drive the system towards the ordered state. On the experimental side, we show that the local organization of cells in the organ of Corti is quite dynamic, exhibiting significant changes in cell morphology as well as rearrangements over periods of tens of minutes. Overall, our combined approach, provides a platform for understanding how the interplay between differentiation processes and mechanics gives rise to spatially organized tissue.