Nate Berkus and Jeremiah Brent are renowned for their casual luxe approach to design – most famously exhibited on their eponymous TLC show and in their Manhattan home – which they often share with the world. When it comes to their vacation home, however, they have gone one step further.
The duo recently listed their vacation home in Montauk, East Hampton, on Airbnb for one night in June – and unsurprisingly, it booked up instantly (sorry). Following the one-night stay, the home will become available for additional summer bookings, so there’s still a chance for us to spend a night in this designer haven.
However, we don’t need a reservation to take design notes that we can replicate in our own homes. Exhibiting organic materials, seamless storage, and elements of quiet luxury in almost every corner, this home is a muse that we can all learn from. Here are five stand-out decorating ideas to start with.
1. Never underestimate neutral entry ways
(Image credit: Marc McAndrews)
When it comes to entryway colors, it’s easy to overlook neutrals in favor of a more statement-making shade. As the first room of the home, every design decision counts towards a lasting first impression, after all. However, Nate and Jeremiah remind us that classics should never be underestimated.
‘What I love about neutrals is that they provide the perfect backdrop to then make the room what you want it to be,’ Nate shared with H&G. This is evident around the entire house, but no space showcases its power quite like the entrance.
Here, the bright white walls accentuate the natural sunlight – ensuring the space looks spacious and welcoming – while contrasting with the dark wooden accessories. ‘Whether that’s bringing in a certain design style or color scheme, a neutral palette provides a blank canvas,’ he adds.
So, there is no need to worry that your entryway looks boring. With the right base, any colored accents can stand out and make the stylish first impression our home deserves. We’re starting with this designer-inspired mirror below.
With its classic wooden frame and a black satin finish, this mirror creates the perfect contrast against a neutral white-painted backdrop. It looks especially great in an entryway, as the designers intended.
2. Draw from your surroundings with a natural base
(Image credit: Marc McAndrews)
This home’s Montauk zip code is one of the most prestigious in New York – but luxury aside, this neighborhood has an abundance of natural assets that are even more impressive than the local boutiques and restaurants.
Situated on the edge of the Atlantic, the village is known for its rocky landscape and sandy beaches that act as a source of immediate inspiration for all who visit – including Nate Berkus and Jeremiah Brent. Throughout their home, they have introduced beautiful organic materials that pay homage to the natural surroundings – as seen with the wood paneling that surrounds the open-plan living space.
Although wooden panels are not to everyone’s taste, they are an effective way to give your home a natural, coastal feel – much like this one. And it’s a look that is approved by other experts, too.
‘Wooden panels might surge in popularity this year due to the growth
trend of Scandinavian design,’ adds New York designer Artem Kropovinsky. ‘This aesthetic is characterized by its utilization of natural materials, minimalist lines, and basic shapes. Wooden panels flawlessly align with this style, contributing to the creation of a cozy and inviting ambiance.’ We’re officially convinced.
3. Invest in soothing curves
(Image credit: Marc McAndrews)
The relationship between celebrities and curved furniture is certainly no secret. Everyone from Kate Hudson to Chrissy Teigen has already backed the ever-popular design trend, but with support from top designers like Nate and Jeremiah we’re sure that curvy sofas are here to stay.
In this room, the designers have chosen a muted brown curved sofa, but whatever tone you choose, the benefits of this sofa remain the same.
‘Curved sofas infuse any room with a hint of mid-century modern appeal,’ Artem adds. ‘Alongside their curved shape, which delivers support, the shape is incredibly versatile. They can be employed in multiple ways, from accommodating a large gathering to creating a snug reading corner.’
As we mentioned, color is a preference, but we’ve found a sofa similar to Nate and Jeremiah’s one below.
Hugger Curved Boucle Sofa
Created by esteemed designer Leanne Ford, this curved sofa is versatile, comfortable, and stylish. Striking for its sculptural curves, the piece offers a seat that finds a balance between formal and lounge-friendly.
4. Give open shelving a try
(Image credit: Marc McAndrews)
Open shelving is one of the most controversial kitchen storage ideas, with designers often divided on its ease of maintenance and practicality. However, Nate and Jeremiah just made a case for this feature – and it’s impossible to argue with this kitchen shelving’s aesthetic appeal.
Alongside its functionality, this open shelving is one of the most personal elements in the kitchen. It showcases the couple’s favorite crockery and glassware while also adding interest to the otherwise neutral white wall. It’s hard to imagine the kitchen without it there.
5. Don’t be shy about showcasing your personality
(Image credit: Marc McAndrews)
‘The largest rooms I have ever assembled have had such deep input from the people who live in them,’ Nate shared with H&G. ‘At the end of the day, when your eye travels across a space that reflects you, you really feel at home.’ And it is in this living room where his ideology comes into play the most.
Here, Nate and Jeremiah have given their most personal possessions a platform – from books and vases to decorating with antiques and trinkets that mean something to the couple.
‘If you want to put an antique dresser in your entryway, do it – what is the worst that could happen?’ It is important to curate a space you love. That is the true meaning of design.’ In terms of accessories, we’re following their lead and investing in a wicker tray like theirs below.
This decorative tray is a stylish way to display a stack of books, a plant, candle or any other personal memento that would look beautiful in a living room, just like the one above.
For yet more inspiration, we’re refreshing their Airbnb listing in anticipation of the next summer date releases…