Nate Berkus, founder of the interior design firm Nate Berkus Associates, author of “The Things That Matter” and a frequent design expert on “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” was the guest on a recent Home Front chat. Here are some of our favorite pieces of advice from the live Q&A:
• Don’t worry about trends. Love traditional Oriental rugs but seeing modern patterns in all the magazines? Don’t worry about it. “Design is really about finding a style that represents who you are and not following the trends in magazines.”
• For a balanced fireplace mantel, you can go one of two ways: One large mirror or piece of art hung above the fireplace or several small framed pieces leaning against the wall. “A beautiful pottery bowl, a pair of candlesticks or a series of handmade pottery in complementary colors would be beautiful.”
• Don’t be a slave to a home’s history. Rather than painstakingly searching for only art deco pieces for a 1920s home, pair classic elements, such as subway tile, with newer materials. “The best part of a well-designed interior is respecting the history but also incorporating elements available now.”