Design expert and Emmy-nominated TV host Bobby Berk has always had a knack for design, even as a child. At the young age of five, Berk realized that the red color scheme in his bedroom was causing him anxiety and he longed for a calming blue hue. This early experience shaped Berk’s belief that good home design goes beyond just aesthetics, but also how it makes you feel.
In his new book, “Right at Home: How Good Design Is Good for the Mind,” Berk delves into the ways in which design has impacted his mental state over the years and offers practical advice on creating a home that is a safe haven and promotes a sense of peace.
For Berk, the most important aspect of a home is the feeling of safety and security it provides. This feeling became even more evident to Berk after experiencing homelessness during his teenage years. The first apartment he could afford became an anchor for him, both physically and mentally. This transformative experience inspired Berk to become a designer and share that feeling of safety with others.
To find your personal design style, Berk advises looking beyond design itself. He suggests focusing on things that make you happy and bring you joy. By asking about non-design related topics, such as favorite TV shows or dream vacations, Berk helps clients discover what truly resonates with them. By incorporating these personal elements into the design, a space becomes a reflection of one’s true self.
Designing a home around your personal style can have a significant impact on your mental health. Berk compares a home to a phone charger – if your home doesn’t recharge you and make you feel good, it will be difficult to make it through the day. Personal touches, whether it’s a memento from a happy vacation or a scent that evokes positive memories, can make a world of difference in how you feel within your own space.
Berk also emphasizes the importance of lighting in design. Not only does it affect the aesthetic appeal of a space, but it can also influence your mental state. Adjusting lighting levels in the evening, such as dimming lights or turning certain lights off, can help signal to your body that it is time to wind down and prepare for sleep. Adding plants to a space can also be soothing, as it connects us to nature and brings a sense of calm.
As Berk’s own style and needs have evolved over time, he has discovered the value of good organization. Keeping his space clutter-free has become essential for his mental well-being, as he has realized the impact of a clean and organized environment on his overall state of mind.
In the end, Berk believes that designing a home around your personal style is essential for creating a space that supports and nourishes you. By prioritizing your own happiness, comfort, and style, your home will take care of you in return.