Nate Berkus Rules!

Yep, it's true.  Nate Berkus, you are my interior designer hero. Whenever I watch the show or see spaces he (and his team) have created, I know I will always like it. He is smart with small spaces and I like his approach, a little bit of modern mixed with function mixed with style. You know I like pretty pictures so I'll let some of his work speak for itself.

Rich wall color filled with a gallery of frames
via - Elle Decor, photo: William Waldron

Dream closet
via - Elle Decor, photo: William Waldron

Those lamps! Wowza!
via - Elle Decor, photo: Roger Davies

via - Elle Decor, photo: Simon Upton

via - Elle Decor, photo: Simon Upton

Love this bold area rug
via - Elle Decor, photo: Pieter Estersohn

What a beautiful sunroom
via - Elle Decor, photo: Roger Davies

Such pretty light
via - Elle Decor, photo: William Waldron

via - Elle Decor, photo: William Waldron

What an amazing dining area
via - Nate Berkus Associates

Why you ask am I having a Nate-fest?  Well, he complied a list of his Top Ten Design Tips and I thought they were good for someone new and very interested in interior design (me) and maybe for anyone who wanted some new ideas for decorating the home (you). 

10: Go Vertical

Living in a small area? Don't waste your precious space! Use an over-the-door organizer to maximize storage and closet space.

9: Make Storage Space

Get creative when creating storage space for a small area. Use bed risers for additional storage room beneath your bed. Visit your local home goods store for under-the-bed storage chests, preferably with wheels for easy maneuvering.

8: Dim the Lights

Showcase the beautiful design in your home with the right lighting! Lighting is one of the easiest ways to set the mood in your space. Create the right ambiance by installing dimmer units, which will allow you some versatility AND save you money!

7: Use Wallpaper in New Ways

Wallpaper isn't just for walls. Learn to use wallpaper in unexpected ways! Add it to the back of a bookshelf, use it to decorate the risers of stairs, or put it on a section of the wall behind an architectural piece to add drama to your space.

6: Add Area Rugs

Use area rugs to divide and identify a large space! If you can't install a physical barrier to section off a large room, area rugs are an affordable alternative that can help add distinction to a room with multiple functions.

5: Create Room Dividers

Create a bit of privacy in a large room with a makeshift room divider. Put up a collapsible screen, push bookcases back to back, or add a large dresser. When creating functional zones in a room, remember, a divider doesn't have to go all the way to the ceiling.

4: Float the Furniture

One of the easiest ways to make a small space feel bigger, or to create zones in a large space, is to float the furniture. Move your furniture away from the walls and put pieces on angles to add interest to your home.

3: Use Carpet Floor Tiles

Instantly update a space with carpet floor tiles. Carpet floor tiles are easy to install, and easy to replace when stained!

2: Use Double Duty Furniture

Invest in multipurpose furniture. A tufted ottoman can be used as additional seating space or a coffee table.

1: Your Home Should Tell Your Story

Your home should tell your story! Add layers, textures, and photos to personalize your space. Make your home a beautiful reflection of who you are, and what you love!


I hope this inspires you to think about your space in a new way.


xo,
L


*Credits - Elle Decor, Nate Berkus Associates and Top Ten via The Nate Show