Nate Berkus is simply one of the few names that strike almost every chord when it comes to home decor. With a perfectly honed sense of style and his innate ability to blend the classic and the modern elements effortlessly, Berkus has been setting the trend legitimately well within the bounds of interior design. But what is the distinguishing quality that makes him unique? This is due to his insight into one design movement-simple yet transformational-efficiently- layering textures and patterns.
And this is just about as complicated as it sounds; it involves concocting a look that creates depth, warmth, and personality within a space. Berkus typically takes the fragile and eclectic approach of different textures, materials, and patterns in creating such beautiful and nuanced spaces as his combination of block printed pillows and handwoven throws, or even his linen lampshades and roman shades-all of which seem to enliven any space.
Why Layering Works Like Magic

1. Creates Visual Interest - Dark, monochrome, or flat spaces usually have a lifeless feel about them. Introducing variations of bold patterns like block print quilts, geometric table runners, or textured blankets can breathe life into any mundane space.
2. Warmth - Comfy, rich textures tend to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Plush cotton pillow covers combined with a wool throw come to mind.
3. Adds Luxury Touch - With careful attention, layers can bring that upscale, high-end designer aesthetic into even the most modestly simple spaces.
4. Gives the Room a Lived-In Feeling - A house is supposed to tell an entire story, as Berkus often puts it. He gets that by layering handcrafted, vintage-type décor around.
How You Can Apply Nate Berkus' Design Philosophy

1. The Neutral Base Start
Berkus most often transcends into neutral tones for all the boldest layers of texture and pattern. You could take your paint color or furniture shade soft beige, white, or gray, and frill it with some bold elements like some block printed throws or embroidered pillow covers.
2. Mix Textures for Depth
Layering is not just the prints-it is also mixing the materials. A jute rug, lined curtains, a handwoven cotton table runner on a rustic wooden table, or a combination of velvet and block print pillow covers instantly elevates the space.
3. Bring In Some Artisan Elements
Berkus has always been a strong advocate of handmade decor. Elements like handcrafted Roman shades, hand-block printed lampshades, or beautifully woven blankets bring an authentic organic touch.
4. No Need to Shy from Patterns
One of Berkus' major talents is easily complementing patterns. A floral block print quilt can perfectly complement striped linen pillow covers as long as it is cohesive in its color palette.
5. Functional Pieces as Decoration
Why keep blankets away when they can serve double duty pretending to be decor? Berkus makes a weaving blanket folded over a chair, Roman shades for window beauty, or block-printed table runners on coffee tables to create effortless charm.
Famous Quotes on Layering & Design
To strengthen the point about layering in interior design, here are some very insightful words from famous bloggers:
1. "Layering different textures and fabrics is what transforms a space from cold and sterile to warm and welcoming." – Kelly Wearstler, October 2023.
2. "Every piece in a room should have a purpose, and layering is the best way to tell a design story." – Emily Henderson, June 2022.
3. "Textures, patterns, and mixed materials bring an energy to a space that no single element can achieve alone." - Shea McGee, January 2024.
Challenges In Layering Home Decor
Layering is a great design option, but it has some problems too:
1. Avoid Clutter: Too many things in a space can suffocate it. Try to prefer a common color scheme and balance with some light textures.
2. Matching Patterns Well: Mixing patterns alone is an art. Start with smaller accents, such as covers, table runners, or lampshades with block prints before attempting bolder pieces.
3. Budgetary Constraints: Best layered decors usually come at a cost. Go ahead with those handmade, ethically sourced products that blend both sustainability and luxury.
Final Thoughts
One brilliant design trick would change everything about interiors: layering. A home can be made much more inviting, warm, and erudite with handwoven fabrics, block-printed components, and rich, lustrous textiles. Whether a cotton quilt in a bedroom or some stylish, patterned Roman shades to a living-room corner, layering is an easy way to put personality into design.
So, are you ready to give your home the Nate Berkus touch? Start layering today and watch your space come alive!
FAQs
1. How to integrate layering with a small space?
Start with pillows, throws, and curtains. Then introduce dimension without clutter with some handwoven blankets over the sofa or block-printed Roman shades for the windows.
2. What is the best mix for layering?
The good mixture works with cotton, linen, wool, and jute in the same category. A quilted throw with a silk pillow cover or woven rug paired with a block print lampshade adds depth in texture.
3. How to make my space not look too busy?
Following a single color palette for a space will support a rather cohesive look. Just 2-3 powerful colors should be used to go about getting textures and patterns in the space.
4. Where to find quality home decor for layering?
Fabdivine deals in handcrafted home essentials like block print pillow covers, table runners, throws, and quilts, all made in the traditional style of wooden hand block printing.