Deep Dive in Design: The Space That Keeps You with Jeremiah Brent

Episode Release Date: August 5, 2025
Host: Dara Caponigro
Guest: Jeremiah Brent, Founder of Jeremiah Brent Design and Lifestyle Brand at Trio, Co-host of Nate and Jeremiah Home Project, Host of the Podcast "Idea of Order"

Introduction to Jeremiah Brent

In this compelling episode of Deep Dive in Design, Tori Malotte, Frederick's style director, welcomes Jeremiah Brent, a renowned interior designer known for his innovative approach and dynamic presence in the design industry. Jeremiah shares insights into his multifaceted career, balancing interior projects, television appearances, product collections, and family life.

Balancing Creativity and Business Savvy

Jeremiah opens up about the challenges of managing a thriving design business while nurturing his creative passions. He reflects on the early days of his career, where he had to wear multiple hats, handling everything from design to business operations.

Jeremiah Brent [02:12]: "When I started my business, I had to be everything. Every part of my business I was trying to figure out."

Now, with over a decade of experience, he emphasizes the importance of recognizing his strengths and weaknesses, allowing him to delegate effectively and focus on creativity and strategic growth.

Jeremiah Brent [03:34]: "I like taking risks and taking chances and I'm very good at failing. So I think that for business, for me, what's been great about that is I'm not afraid to take a risk because if it doesn't work, usually it doesn't work, but something else opens itself up through that process."

Collaborating with His Spouse: Nate Berkus

A significant portion of the conversation delves into Jeremiah's professional and personal partnership with his husband, Nate Berkus. They discuss the unique dynamics of working with a spouse, highlighting the mutual respect and support that underpins their collaboration.

Jeremiah Brent [05:46]: "I think we have a unique experience professionally because, you know, there was never this weird hierarchy. There was never a competitiveness."

Jeremiah offers valuable advice for couples looking to work together, emphasizing the importance of setting clear boundaries to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Jeremiah Brent [08:15]: "I am a firm believer in boundaries. ... If it can't be fun and we can't have fun with it, then what the hell are we doing it for?"

Defining His Design Style and Influences

Jeremiah discusses his design philosophy, often labeled as "creative California Modern," though he aspires for his work to transcend simple categorization. He prides himself on creating unique, original spaces tailored to each client's story, blending different styles to achieve harmony.

Jeremiah Brent [10:02]: "Everything is so different. ... I don't like the idea of being pigeonholed, is just doing one thing. So that's really my goal."

His roots in the fashion industry, particularly his time working with star stylist Rachel Zoe, significantly influence his interior design aesthetics. Jeremiah draws parallels between fashion and interior design, valuing the interplay of textures, patterns, and eras to create layered and meaningful spaces.

Jeremiah Brent [11:39]: "Fashion before interiors... it was the first medium that you really figured out that you can play with and have fun and express yourself."

Product Design and Embracing Retail

Jeremiah elaborates on his product design process, focusing on originality and ensuring that each product is both unique and commercially viable. He thrives on the challenge of merging bespoke inspirations with practical applications that resonate with consumers.

Jeremiah Brent [17:12]: "I mean, everywhere is the short answer. ... I think I'm always looking for inspiration."

Despite the rise of online shopping, Jeremiah recently launched a retail concept store at Trio, both online and in California. He believes in the enduring value of the physical retail experience, where customers can engage with products in a meaningful way.

Jeremiah Brent [18:49]: "When I was growing up, ... there was always a sense of discovery. So I really believe in retail, especially with home."

"The Space That Keeps You" Book: Exploring Meaningful Spaces

A highlight of the episode is Jeremiah's discussion about his first book, "The Space That Keeps You." The book delves into what transforms a house into a home by capturing the personal histories, present lives, and future aspirations of various families. Jeremiah shares his journey of writing the book, motivated by his own experiences of frequently moving and seeking a sense of permanence.

Jeremiah Brent [21:23]: "It's not about design. And it can't be a coffee table book. It's got to be, like, part scrapbook. It's just I want it to be my journal."

He emphasizes that the book is a reflection on the beauty of memory, ritual, and legacy within personal spaces, aiming to change the industry narrative towards more meaningful and authentic home designs.

Jeremiah Brent [22:55]: "This book is like a journey for people that you kind of... it really changed the way I create it, changed the way I love it, changed the way I live in our own home."

Personal Reflections and Future Projects

Towards the end of the conversation, Jeremiah shares a heartfelt moment about the loss of his beloved dog, illustrating the profound connection between personal experiences and the spaces we inhabit. He concludes by expressing his excitement for upcoming projects, including new design ventures and further development of his book, which he hopes will resonate deeply with readers.

Jeremiah Brent [27:40]: "I'm very excited about that. I'm very proud to have made something for my children to hold on to."

Conclusion

This episode of Deep Dive in Design offers an intimate look into Jeremiah Brent's multifaceted life as a designer, entrepreneur, and family man. Through thoughtful discussion and personal anecdotes, Jeremiah provides valuable insights into balancing creativity with business acumen, the nuances of working with a spouse, and the profound impact of meaningful design on personal lives. His forthcoming book promises to be a significant contribution to the discourse on what truly makes a house a home.

Thank you for tuning into this detailed summary of "The Space That Keeps You" episode with Jeremiah Brent. For the full conversation, be sure to listen to the episode on your preferred podcast platform.