Nate Berkus and Jeremiah Brent Restore Historic Portuguese Farm

Designers Nate Berkus and Jeremiah Brent restored a 400-year-old ^[1] farm in Portugal, transforming a ruin into a private family homestead.

The project represents a significant architectural undertaking that blends historic preservation with modern family needs. By reviving a derelict site, the designers have created a sustainable living environment that accommodates multiple generations in a rural setting.

Located in the Alentejo region, the property spans approximately 18 acres ^[3]. The restoration effort focused on converting the dilapidated structures into functional living spaces. The couple designed the estate to serve as a refuge for their family, including their daughter, Poppy, and son, Oskar ^[3].

Beyond the primary residence, the homestead includes orchards and farm animals. The layout was specifically planned to provide living space for Brent’s grandmother, ensuring the home functions as a multi-generational sanctuary. This approach allows the children to grow up in a bucolic environment where they can interact with nature and livestock.

The restoration of the 400-year-old ^[1] site required balancing the preservation of the original ruins with the necessity of modern comfort. The Alentejo region is known for its distinct landscape, and the 18-acre ^[3] property integrates into the surrounding countryside through its agricultural focus.

By focusing on the creation of a personal retreat, Berkus and Brent have shifted their professional expertise in interior design toward large-scale land and structural reclamation. The result is a functional farm that supports both the couple's professional standards and their private family life.