Elevate Your Space: Home Design Secrets from Nate Berkus

Discovering the Essence of Home with Nate Berkus

Nate Berkus, a name synonymous with stylish living, has transcended the label of a mere designer. From co-launching his own television show, The Nate and Jeremiah Home Project, to recently becoming a bestselling author with his book Foundations, Berkus is known for emphasizing the importance of creating spaces that resonate with personal stories. His enduring philosophy revolves around making homes that embody the memories and experiences of the people living in them.

Gift-Giving Tips Straight From Berkus

Nate’s approach to thoughtful gift-giving reflects his design beliefs. When invited to dinner, his go-to gift this year is a copy of his book, Foundations. This choice encapsulates his mission — to help people connect with their environments through mindful choices. By sharing his book, he not only promotes his work but also instills the values of personal significance and thoughtful design in others.

Bedside Inspirations That Influence Design Choices

What sits on Berkus’s bedside table? A vintage lamp, a phone charger, and whatever book he is currently diving into — specifically, a novel by Patrick Ryan titled Buckeye. This simple setup encapsulates his aesthetic, blending vintage charm with functionality. Berkus asserts that when designing a home, it’s the details, like the choice of bedside items, that shape the overall feeling of a space.

Timeless Aesthetics: From Downton Abbey to Today

While contemporary styles change rapidly, Berkus finds inspiration in the enduring aesthetics of shows like Downton Abbey. Its artistic detailing and rich colors create an ambiance that resonates with him. However, his view of style doesn’t just reflect nostalgia but embraces new perspectives as well. As he prepares for the design trends of 2026, Berkus notes a shift towards earthy tones and organically aged materials that tell a story, reflecting a deeper connection to nature and authenticity.

Design Moves That Make a Difference

When asked about impactful upgrades to a home, Berkus mentions extraordinary renovations, like breaking through a wall to increase space. But he also emphasizes smaller, budget-friendly actions that dramatically enhance a room’s feel. “Painting a small room a deep, moody color,” he notes, brings an unexpected intentionality to the space, debunking the myth that darker shades close in a room.

Similarly, swapping out cabinet hardware has the power to redefine any kitchen or bathroom, easily introducing a fresh vibe without a large financial commitment. It showcases Berkus’s practical insights for homeowners looking to enhance their spaces without significant renovations.

Choosing Colors Bodies & Moods

Berkus’s favorite paint colors significantly shape the moods within a home, especially, he emphasizes, in bedrooms. A happiness-inducing color can influence one’s emotional state and overall wellbeing, reaffirming the necessity of personal touches within interior design. For 2026, he has observed that deeper, earth-rooted colors are making a comeback, aligning with a consumer desire for materials that are both rich and authentic.

Where to Seek Design Inspiration

When looking for design ideas, Berkus recommends checking out various Instagram accounts that resonate with him for their eye-catching aesthetics. His husband, Jeremiah Brent, possesses a unique point of view that culminates in an unmistakable style. Also noteworthy are the accounts @jeremiahbrent, @alyssakapitointeriors, and @slow_roads, all of which illustrate the fine balance between beauty and functionality in design.

Making It Personal: The Sweet Spot of Interior Design

In a world where design trends often force conformity, Berkus challenges homeowners to make spaces their own. He notes a growing distaste for impersonal interiors that prioritize aesthetics over authenticity. His advice is simple: “Ask yourself how you want a room to feel when someone enters.” Each detail should reflect the inhabitants’ personalities, allowing visitors to experience the spaces organically.

The intersection of comfort and elegance is where true design flourishes. Berkus encourages taking risks as personal items, vintage pieces, or family heirlooms can add depth and warmth, telling a unique story and creating a lasting impression.

Transforming Your Home: Actionable Insights

For homeowners looking to elevate their spaces, begin by identifying what makes you feel at ease in your environment. Are there specific items that evoke memories? Integrating such pieces can facilitate a comforting atmosphere, reminding family members of shared experiences.

Moreover, consider practical upgrades such as kitchen or bathroom remodeling where cabinet swaps or countertop updates can yield a fresh, current appearance without major renovations. Accessibility improvements and storage solutions can also enhance daily functionality without sacrificing style.

As you embark on your design journey, keep Berkus’s philosophy at the forefront: “Live beautifully.” Each home is a blank canvas waiting to narrate a story, and it’s in your hands to craft a masterpiece that reflects whom you are and how you want to live.