Nate Berkus is firmly anti-trend, and instead of piling on new decor, he’s focused on editing, refining, and investing in pieces that actually last. The interior design icon has clued us in to the home pieces you'll use for the rest of your life, including a quality sofa, candlestick holders, a gilded mirror, and the best wine glasses.
Refresh your home with new investment pieces inspired by Nate's advice. From vintage finds to one tabletop essential he swears instantly elevates any gathering, the interior designer is sharing exactly what’s worth buying now—and what to skip.
“My whole thing around spring is not bringing anything new in," he told E! "It's getting everything out. I cannot believe that our little family of four can gather and keep and hang on to so much over one season. So for me, it's all about refining, editing, donating, cleaning, and organizing."
As maximalism continues to trend across social media and interiors, Berkus says the bigger issue isn’t the look—it’s the pressure behind it. “I think the issue with trends in general is that I think that they're designed to make people feel bad about what they 'missed out' on or what they think everybody has that they don't."
"I would say that if that's something that feels like it's the right look for you, and you're not doing it just because a lot of people are doing it, then I would definitely buy and collect things that you know you're going to love 10 years from now.”
He advises buying vintage or antique furniture or lighting, which he says "stays with you forever."
He also called out a "beautiful gilded mirror or an iron mirror is something that you'll always find a place for no matter where you move."
His other pick? "A well-made sofa. It doesn't have to be expensive, but it does need to be well made and in a solid fabric."
This sophisticated mirror adds depth and light to any space while serving as a statement decor piece. The solid metal construction ensures durability, and the slight raised edges add an extra touch of craftsmanship.
This arched baroque wall mirror is adorned with intricate scrollwork and delicate floral motifs. Choose from three sizes. Prices vary.
Adding a decorative mirror to your bedroom can really elevate the space, no matter the size. We love that this option is just $20!
The clean and sleek minimalist design of this ottoman is accentuated by its tapered legs, hinting subtly at the mid-century aesthetic. The warm and inviting cognac upholstery, on the other hand, infuses the piece with a contemporary and cozy touch that makes it perfect for blending into modern farmhouse aesthetics.
Upholstered in a luxurious, textured corduroy fabric, this affordable sofa offers a plush and inviting feel that’s perfect for lounging. Its neutral color complements any decor.
When it comes to entertaining, the author and TV personality says some of the best pieces to invest in are the ones people often overlook. “I actually think that the world of high-end tabletop has been ignored!" he shared.
"When young people aren't paying attention to a category like silver or porcelain or napkin rings or stemware. That's when you can get the best deals," he advised.
"Entertaining is obviously about food and setting the environment and all those things, music and lighting, but it's also about the ability to set a beautiful table. You can start collecting those things now."
Enjoy your wine in gorgeous multi-colored wine glasses. Crafted from European crystal, these stemmed wine glasses have a modern, angled silhouette with elegant stems and come in four delicate pastel hues.
This essential two-piece set includes the Classic 6-inch Chef's Knife and 5-Inch Serrated Utility.
Actually, you can have fun with your tablescape! These fun sardine napkin rings are a subtle way to add a pop of your personality to your dinner party without going overboard. Choose from a set of 4 or a set of 8.
The handles of this knife set are reminiscent of the vivid colors of the sunsetting in the heart of Tuscany featuring luxe cream, autumnal apricot, and deep russet red shades. Plus, they'll look stunning on your tablescape.
The gold detailing on these wine glasses gives them a chic vintage quality, like something you'd find in a European marketplace.
If you invest in just one thing, Berkus says this is the piece that makes the biggest impact—no matter the occasion. “A beautiful pair of vintage antique candlesticks," he shared. "Sterling, bronze, stone, brass, it doesn't matter. Both for formal entertaining, and more importantly for informal entertaining, because you can use your white dishes with something like that, and it automatically feels elevated.”
The tall gold angel wing candle holder brings glamour and soul to your evenings. Designed to accommodate a 3" pillar candle or a standard taper.
Inspired by vintage designs and updated with a classic, polished brass finish, these candlestick holders make a statement placed individually on your table or mantle and clustered as a set.
These gorgeous brass candlestick holders have vintage flair. Buy a set or the whole collection! Prices start at $24.
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