Nate Berkus and Jeremiah Brent Show Off Their 400-Year-Old Farmhouse Family Compound in Portugal

Nate Berkus and Jeremiah Brent, the well-known design duo, have made significant strides in restoring a historic 400-year-old farmhouse in Portugal, where they now reside part-time with their children, Poppy and Oskar. The couple’s picturesque property, which spans an impressive 18 acres, also serves as a home for Brent’s grandmother and a variety of farm animals, blurring the lines between rural living and family life.

The intricate renovation of the farmhouse, focused on honouring its historical charm while modernising essential amenities, has been a labour of love for the duo over the past five years. Berkus recently disclosed his emotional attachment to the farm, admitting, “If I’m being totally honest, this one is hard to share. It’s the first time I’ve ever felt so protective about a place.” This sentiment highlights the significance of their retreat in an otherwise demanding life in New York City.

Nestled in a secluded location approximately thirty minutes from the Spanish border, the farm offers a serene contrast to the fast-paced lifestyle the designers are accustomed to. During school holidays and vacations, the family intends to spend as much as four months each year at their Portuguese home. Brent noted the differences between their lives in New York and Portugal: “In New York, I get up early and go, go, go. Here, I sleep a little longer. I like the nights. It’s the most beautiful time of quiet.”

The inspiration for the purchase came from Brent’s grandmother, a Portuguese immigrant who longed to return to her homeland. Following the relocation of a close friend, art dealer André Viana, to the Alentejo region, Berkus and Brent began their search for a suitable property. Their discovery was a centuries-old farmhouse once owned by prominent landowners, its dilapidated state notwithstanding.

Upon their initial visit to the farm, the couple encountered remnants of its storied past, including a whitewashed archway leading to various ruins, such as a crumbling chapel and a neglected bakery. Although the buildings were in disrepair, the couple was captivated by the site’s ancient olive trees, a nearby creek, and the aqueducts that traversed the land, prompting them to undertake the vast restoration project.

However, the journey was not without its challenges. Berkus revealed the overwhelming stress they experienced during the renovation process: “We’d have these nights where we were just so stressed and overwhelmed. We couldn’t visualize what the place could be, and we didn’t know who to talk to about it.” To navigate these difficulties, they engaged with local architects Cristina Guerra and Joana Bizarro, whose expertise proved invaluable in revitalising the property.

Combining a respect for the farmhouse’s legacy with modern conveniences, the completed residence features air conditioning, a new laundry room, and a myriad of design elements that pay homage to its history. Vintage furnishings from European auctions and personal items from their collections harmoniously complement the home’s historic architecture. In the primary bedroom, the Original millwork and a family crest—dating back 400 years—have been preserved, serving as a testament to the building’s storied past.

Outside, Berkus and Brent created what they call their “dream” pool, designed with a checkerboard marble pattern, ingeniously reimagined from an old water tank. This innovation not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the property but also enriches the outdoor experience for their family and visitors alike.

Cultural significance extends beyond the property itself, as friends and guests marvel at the warmth and love that fills the farmhouse. Michael Hainey, a writer and close friend of the couple, remarked on a recent visit, “There is a sense of magic here. They’ve brought the place back to life and beauty. More than anything, the family makes it special. The love among the four of them radiates throughout the house.”

For those intrigued by this enchanting transformation, more insights can be found in the June issue of Architectural Digest and on their official website. Berkus and Brent continue to demonstrate that their commitment to design and family coexist beautifully, showcasing not just a home but a cherished sanctuary steeped in history and love.