Nate Berkus, a renowned designer, opens up about blending style with function in family spaces, offering practical tips for creating homes that are beautiful and child-friendly. In this article, Nate discusses the importance of timeless design, the joy of parenthood, and the art of crafting multifunctional living spaces that work for the whole family.
Incorporating Greenery
One of Nate’s top suggestions for elevating a home’s ambiance is bringing the outdoors in. “Go outside, cut down some branches, and make a tall arrangement. You’ve probably seen it all over Instagram,” Nate explains. The presence of greenery can completely transform how we feel about our spaces, infusing freshness and vitality into the home. This simple touch is visually pleasing and creates a calming environment that resonates with the growing trend of biophilic design seen on social media.
Investing in Timeless Pieces
Nate believes in the importance of investing in high-quality, timeless furniture that stands the test of time. “My son, who is just five, has an antique dresser in his room. One day, it might be in the foyer of his apartment,” he shares. For Nate, it’s about more than just the aesthetic appeal of furniture—it’s about longevity and family legacy. He encourages families to prioritize quality over fleeting trends, as well-made pieces can be passed down through generations, becoming a meaningful part of a family’s story.
The Joy of Parenthood
When asked about his favorite part of being a parent, Nate reflects on the fleeting nature of childhood. “Being a parent is probably the most joyful experience. Jeremiah and I are very aware of how quickly time flies,” Nate shares. In their household, Nate and his husband, Jeremiah Brent, make a conscious effort to pause and savor the special moments with their children, appreciating the small, everyday joys of parenthood. If you’re interested you can also read an article on what the couple had to say about Nate and Jeremiah Third Child
Designing Family-Friendly Spaces
Nate’s design philosophy centers around creating spaces that are as functional as they are beautiful, especially when it comes to family life. Take the dining room table, for example. While it seats 10 for family meals, it can also be transformed into a fun game area by adding a clip-on net for ping pong. “Our side tables have hand-painted game boards, so you can play checkers with your kids using small stones,” Nate shares. Outdoor spaces are equally important, with Nate highlighting how terraces and fire pits can serve as a retreat for both kids and adults. At places like Great Wolf Lodge, these spaces help families connect with nature and each other.
Screen-Free Family Time
In the Berkus-Brent household, screen time is kept to a minimum. “Our son loves to build. When I designed the side tables with tic-tac-toe and chess boards painted on top, I had him in mind,” Nate reveals. His children are only allowed to watch cartoons on weekend mornings and during flights. “On airplanes, it’s a free-for-all,” Nate jokes, but he stresses the importance of finding engaging, screen-free activities to foster creativity and connection.
A Fun “This or That”
In a lighthearted “This or That” game, Nate shares a few of his personal preferences:
Lazy River or Wave Pool?
“Wave Pool, definitely.”
Ice Cream or Cake?
“Cake.”
Bowling or Mini Golf?
“Mini golf.”
Group or Solo Water Slides?
“Group water slides! I love going with the kids.”
Yoga Tails or Dance Party?
“Dance party—every day!”
Pizza or Burgers?
“Burgers.”
Ropes Course or Oliver’s Mining Co?
“Ropes course, even though I’m afraid of heights. The peer pressure would get me through.”
Sweet or Savory?
“That’s tough. I’m not exclusively one or the other. I’ll have birthday cake and finish it off with fries.”
Final Thoughts
Nate’s approach to design and parenting is all about creating lasting memories while maintaining spaces that are both stylish and functional. Whether through greenery, timeless furniture, or family-friendly activities, Nate’s insights inspire us to prioritize what truly matters in our homes.
Have any thoughts or tips of your own? Feel free to share in the comments below!
