I was working on a client’s kitchen renovation when I realized something was off. We’d been following all the ‘designer’ advice, but nothing was actually functional. Then I remembered seeing Nate Berkus do a project on TV and thought, ‘Wait, he’s actually solving real problems.’ That’s when I started looking at his DIY projects with fresh eyes.
Let me be clear about what I’m talking about here. Not the glossy, perfect-looking projects that make you feel like you’re missing out on life. I mean the ones that actually get done, are practical, and work in real homes with real people. After three years of doing renovations and reading everything from contractor forums to design blogs, I’ve narrowed down what makes Nate Berkus projects stick. It’s not just about aesthetics—it’s about function, materials, and execution.
Why Nate Berkus DIY Projects Actually Work
Here’s what I’ve learned after trying maybe 15 of his projects over the past two years:
• He focuses on simple, achievable changes rather than major overhauls
• His projects usually involve repurposing existing materials instead of buying new ones
• He considers how people actually live in spaces
I remember doing a bathroom vanity project with his technique last spring. The result wasn’t Instagram worthy, but it was completely functional and saved us $800 compared to buying a new one. When I mentioned this to another designer, she said, ‘That’s the kind of thinking that makes a difference.
How I Approach Nate Berkus DIY Projects
I don’t just copy-paste his projects. Here’s how I adapt them:
- Start with the problem: What’s actually broken or frustrating about the space?
- Check materials: Does the project actually use materials I can find locally?
- Plan the time investment: His projects typically take 3-5 hours, not 10+ hours
- Test the idea first: Before committing to full project, try a small version
For example, when I did his cabinet hardware swap project, I tested with just two drawers first. That way I knew the finish would work with my existing paint color and the hardware would actually fit properly.
The Mistakes I Made with Nate Berkus DIY Projects
I’ll be honest, I made some rookie mistakes early on:
• Assuming tools are standard: Nate assumes you have basic tools, but I forgot to check if I had the right drill bits
• Ignoring material costs: His projects don’t always account for the cost of new hardware or paint
• Underestimating prep work: I thought the paint touch-up would take 15 minutes, but it took 2 hours
One project that really taught me was the wall mural idea. I spent $150 on materials and 4 hours on prep work, only to realize the wall had too much texture for the look he was going for. I should have done a test patch first.
What Most People Get Wrong About Nate Berkus DIY Projects
Most people treat his projects like they’re following a recipe. Here’s what they’re missing:
• He’s not selling products – his projects are meant to be adaptable
• He works with what’s there – not everything needs to be new
• His focus is on transformation, not perfection – a 70% improvement beats a 90% project that never gets finished
I’ve seen so many people get discouraged because their project didn’t match his photos exactly. They forget that he’s got a team, lighting, and a whole production crew helping him look good. I’m just trying to make things work better for my family.
Choosing the Right Nate Berkus DIY Project for Your Space
Here’s how I pick which projects to attempt:
• Budget matters: If you’re on a tight budget, start with projects that use existing items
• Time constraints: Look for projects that take less than 6 hours total
• Skill level: Choose projects that match your current abilities
I recently did his shelving project for a client who needed to organize her home office. She had $200 to spend and 3 hours available. We picked a simpler version of his project that used her existing wood and just added some basic brackets. The result was perfect for her needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nate Berkus DIY Projects
• Q: Are these projects really doable for beginners?
A: Yes, but you’ll need to read the instructions carefully and double-check measurements. I’ve seen people skip the prep steps and end up with warped wood.
• Q: How much do these projects typically cost?
A: Usually $50-$150 depending on materials. Most projects use items you already own or can buy cheaply at big box stores.
• Q: Do I need special tools?
A: Basic tools work fine. You might want to invest in a good drill bit set, but most projects can be done with what you probably already have.
• Q: How long does each project take?
A: Most take 2-5 hours total, including prep and cleanup. I’ve done one that took 8 hours but that was mostly because I was learning a new technique.
After working through dozens of his projects, I can say this: his approach is refreshingly practical. He doesn’t waste time on things that don’t matter to real people living in real homes. If you’re thinking about trying one of his projects, here’s my advice: start small, prepare thoroughly, and don’t let perfection get in the way of progress. I’ve done three projects this year and they’ve all worked. My biggest tip? Don’t be afraid to adapt them to your situation. The best projects are the ones you customize for your space, not the ones you copy exactly.
