Designing for Real life: Bobby Berk on Budget-Conscious Design and Finding Home
Interior design television has a new, grounded voice. Bobby Berk, known for his transformative work on a previous hit series, is now leading ”Get It Done with bobby Berk,” a show focused on delivering impactful home renovations for families facing real-world challenges. He shares his insights on the show’s beliefs,his personal connection too design,and what truly makes a house a home.
A Philosophy Rooted in Accessibility
Berk’s approach to design is refreshingly practical. He emphasizes that beautiful, functional spaces shouldn’t be exclusive to those with unlimited budgets. “I wanted to make sure we made budget-conscious decisions,” he explains, “and I think that’s also a really vital thing to share with people at home - you don’t always have to go out and knock out a fireplace if you hate the material.”
this philosophy permeates the show, offering viewers tangible takeaways they can apply to their own homes. It’s about maximizing impact within constraints, not dreaming of unattainable renovations.
Staying Local vs. Expanding Horizons
Currently, the first season unfolds in the vibrant landscape of Los Angeles. However, the question arises: will future seasons explore other cities or even international locales?
While Berk expresses a fondness for remaining in L.A. – a city he now considers home - he acknowledges the potential need for variety. ”This is a very niche show, so it might be hard to continue doing it in the same city season after season,” he notes. He’s open to expanding the show’s reach, but hopes for at least one or two more seasons based in Los Angeles before venturing further afield.After years of extensive travel, he values the comfort of being closer to home.
Defining “Home”: A global perspective
Berk’s personal journey has shaped his understanding of ”home” in a profound way. He’s lived in New York, currently resides in Los Angeles, and maintains a residence in Portugal. But where does he truly feel most grounded?
Los Angeles currently holds that title. However, his connection to Southeast Asia, notably Vietnam – the birthplace of his husband - is deeply resonant. “I believe in reincarnation, and I was definitely from over there in my last life,” he shares. He describes an immediate sense of belonging whenever he visits the region, suggesting that “home” can be a feeling as much as a place.
Reflecting on a Past Chapter: “Queer Eye“
Berk’s previous role on ”Queer Eye” was a whirlwind experiance. Now, with that chapter closed, he offers a candid reflection.
It was, undeniably, an unbelievable journey.Yet, it came with a demanding pace. He recalls a staggering statistic from 2019: even during months not dedicated to filming, he completed over 200 flights and logged more than 500,000 miles in the air. While he cherishes the memories, he admits he doesn’t miss the relentless travel schedule. he looks back on his time with “Queer Eye” with fondness and gratitude.
Key Takeaways for Your Own Space:
* Budget-conscious design is absolutely possible. Focus on impactful changes that don’t require extensive renovations.
* Embrace your personal connection to space. “Home” is about feeling comfortable and connected,nonetheless of location.
* Prioritize functionality. A beautiful space should also work for your lifestyle.
* Don’t be afraid to get creative. Repurposing and reimagining existing elements can yield stunning results.
Ultimately, Bobby Berk’s work is about empowering you to create a home that reflects your values, your needs, and your unique story. It’s a message of accessibility, authenticity, and the transformative power of thoughtful design.
