Nate Berkus offers insights on acquiring antiques online, emphasizing shopping platforms and techniques to spot a quality purchase.
Nate Berkus, a renowned designer known for his transitional style, shares his insights on shopping for antiques, both online and offline. With over 30 years of antiquing experience, Berkus has mastered the art of blending the old and the new to create a unique, characterful, and artful home.
Berkus often shops for antiques on three online platforms: Live Auctioneers, Chairish, and 1st Dibs. He is particularly fond of incorporating antique stools, often quirky in shape and style, throughout his projects. These pieces not only add a touch of character but also provide a sense of patina, enhancing the overall aesthetic of a room.
One trend Berkus has initiated and continues to champion is midcentury lighting. This bold and distinct style, popularised by trailblazers like himself, adds a unique flair to any room.
When shopping for antiques online, Berkus suggests being specific with your search terms to find the exact type of antique you're looking for. He also recommends requesting condition reports from sellers to ensure there are no hidden damages or repairs that might affect the item's value.
To verify the authenticity of an antique, Berkus advises looking for sellers who can provide documentation or provenance. High-quality images are essential for a thorough visual inspection, and if possible, request additional photos or videos from different angles.
Trustworthy platforms like Etsy, Christie's, and Sotheby's, which often feature verified sellers and detailed product descriptions, are ideal for online antique shopping.
Berkus also encourages researching cities for antique markets, flea markets, designer resale, estate jewelry, and antique stores before traveling. He often looks for characterful antique pieces while exploring different cities.
When it comes to pricing, Berkus acknowledges that it can sometimes be unclear if a fee is fair. He suggests researching keywords to determine if an antique is overpriced or a good deal.
Berkus advises asking for more photos and confirming dimensions before purchasing an antique. He also mentions that many antique sellers consider offers and may meet with a counterbid if an offer is too low.
Berkus's home is a testament to his decorating skills, artfully balancing contemporary and traditional styles. His philosophy is simple: things that you love always seem to find a home.
In conclusion, Berkus's key takeaway is to be prepared: measure up and do research before antique shopping, whether online or offline. With these tips in mind, you too can create a timeless home filled with character and charm.
When shopping for home decor, Berkus also recommends exploring fashion-and-beauty platforms like Etsy, as they often feature verified sellers and detailed product descriptions. His unique lifestyle involves seeking characterful home-and-garden pieces, such as antique stools and midcentury lighting, both online and offline.
