Nate Berkus is without a doubt one of our biggest style influences here at Life etc., but where does a great design mind like him find his own sources of inspiration? That’s exactly what he revealed in a recent Instagram video, and his lesser-known answer might surprise you.
Nate is known for his sophisticated designs that blend old and new into a timeless, seamless style. A few key cornerstones form the foundation of his work. High ceilings with decorative moldings, mixed materials with contrasting textures, and aged wood furniture are all common sights. These are also features that were central to a particular era – mid-century French interior design. It’s this distinctive style that Nate just cited as his main influence, and it’s given us plenty to think about.
This vintage aesthetic isn’t something you hear about much in interior design, but as Nate rightly recognizes, it offers a wealth of inspiration for contemporary design. If you like a classic style that combines rustic features with ornate details and an all-around sense of luxury, consider taking inspiration from Nate’s muse for your next decorating project.
Nate Berkus’ French-inspired kitchen
(Image credit: Jeremiah Brent Design, Photography: Kelly Marshall))
This fascinating insight into Nate’s eye for interiors was revealed in a quick Q&A on his Instagram account. When asked which style most influences his design, Nate confidently replies, “French 1940s and 1950s.” It’s a style characterized by ornate lighting fixtures, patterned rugs, rich upholstery, and iron hardware – features you’ve probably noticed in Nate’s designs if, like us, you’re an avid follower.
“The style 1940 describes a late Art Deco movement that was particularly popular in France and lasted from the late 1930s to the mid-1950s,” explains Sarah Henry, Managing Director and Creative Director of French carpet studio La Manufacture Cogolin. “The movement is still neoclassical in its proportions, but departs significantly from the more sober geometric shapes of the earlier Art Deco style and has a more baroque and eccentric approach, influenced by surrealism.”
While these elements are clearly evident in Nate’s designs, he still manages to make them feel relevant and modern, largely due to his use of color, modern upholstery or trendy styles. Whether it’s wall panels painted in a chic, modern shade or pairing a vintage daybed with a trendy shearling footstool, he always puts a fresh spin on the traditional.
And the 1940s French aesthetic that shines through in all of these designs has a wider influence than just Nate. “This style is still very current today and has a strong influence on contemporary French design – we see it in the curved shapes of the seating, the carefully crafted wooden furniture pieces and the decorative patterns in textiles and wallpaper,” says Sarah. “Vintage pieces from this period can easily be combined with contemporary pieces in a modern interior.”
This approach to design results in an eclectic style that is truly unique and has so much character. What makes Nate’s designs so fascinating is the way they reflect his personality, taking elements from vintage decor and weaving in contemporary trends to create a brand new design blueprint. So by all means, take inspiration from Nate – or his favorite design era – but always make sure to put your own stamp on it.
Maintain the look
Price: $47.74
Finish: Wire brush
Price: 19,99 €
Design: Flowers and lemons
