As the star interior designer celebrates 30 years of his Chicago-based design firm, he shares his thoughts on the milestone, his new book and why he’s as passionate as ever about design.
From early appearances on The Oprah Winfrey Show to high-profile home collections and collabs, Nate Berkus has built up a decades-long career as one of the world’s most influential interior designers.
What’s it like to be celebrating 30 years of Nate Berkus Associates?
If I had known at the age of 24 when I started NBA (nateberkus.com) in my living room that we’d still be going strong after 30 years…it’s a big milestone. I’m really proud of what we’ve built, and being able to do it alongside such a great partner like Lauren [Buxbaum Gordon]. I’m so grateful that I still get to do what I love every day and have had the privilege to do this for 30 years.
How do you think you’ve evolved as a designer?
My style has definitely evolved over the years and my references have expanded, but I have always believed that the best interiors are the ones that are deeply personal and timeless, and that still informs how I approach a project today. I’ve also learned that the so-called failures aren’t that at all, but rather a redirection that always brings something new and unexpected.
Looking back at your career so far, what are you proudest of?
The goal has always been to create thoughtful, personal interiors that reflect the people who live there. I think we’ve done a really good job at doing that and it’s a really rewarding feeling.
How has Chicago continued to influence you?
The design firm is headquartered in Chicago, and it’s where I got my start so it’ll always be a special city to me….the history, the architecture and the Midwest sensibility.
What keeps you passionate about what you do?
The secondary market is so fascinating to me and an absolute passion. Sourcing pieces on auction sites for client projects and future homes is what I spend my Saturday nights doing. I have always had a sense of learning and a sense of curiosity and excitement. I don’t think that will ever change.
What are you excited about for the rest of 2025?
I have just finished my new book (my first in 13 years), called Foundations. It’s the book I’ve always wanted to write: a room-by-room guide to design, filled with everything I’ve learned in my 30-year career. It’s a thank you of sorts to everyone who has supported me over the years. Foundations: Timeless Design That Feels Personal publishes Nov. 4 and is now available for pre-order.
Photography by: DENNIS GOCER/THE COLLECTIVE YOU
