HGTV Star Nate Berkus' Flooring Tip Will Save You Money Without Sacrificing Looks

HGTV's Nate Berkus loves to hone in on his expertise and share all of his tips on everything homes, from clever design hacks to lifestyle upgrades. In the past, Berkus has even revealed how he makes a home smell amazing. Knowing how expensive renovations can be, he's also shared a cost-effective flooring tip: using marble tile that looks like natural stone but comes at a fraction of the price. Just because you're working within a budget doesn't mean you have to sacrifice looks.

In a YouTube video shared by NJ Kitchens and Baths, Berkus walks his clients through the renovations of their family home, and as the client comments on how nice the floors of the bathroom are, Berkus lets them in on a secret. "I have to tell you that floor ... $79 to install. It's not stone. It's marble tiles. Totally waterproof," he explains. Based on the video, the floor looks pretty darn good for a whopping $79.

Berkus' go-to hack shows us that it's more about choosing the right materials than just opting for the most expensive ones. Marble-look tiles for bathrooms can deliver the elegant, high-end look of natural stone without the cost, which can be in the multiple thousands of dollars, or the high-maintenance upkeep. Of course, if your budget is limitless, then go ahead and install the real deal. However, most of us are working with a set budget, and it's crucial to save wherever possible.

Nate Berkus' flooring tip is more than a quick solution. It's a wise design strategy that can be applied to any part of your renovation: knowing where to save and where to splurge. Strategic saving and spending can really make a difference in your space.

Another essential point? Berkus emphasizes the importance of not letting trends dictate your renovation. This is one of the mistakes Berkus wants you to avoid at all costs. The designer told Architectural Digest, "I always reach for what is classic, what has stood the test of time." If you're working with a budget, it's important not to be so heavily influenced by something that's trending at the moment. Think timeless. 

If you save on flooring in your bathroom renovation, you can spend more on higher-impact upgrades. Higher-impact upgrades are what people will notice immediately, such as statement lighting, a statement piece like a standout mirror, or even a custom vanity. The key is to recognize when a lower-cost material can still deliver on style and functionality, and when it's worthwhile to invest in something more substantial. The same applies to the kitchen. For things like cabinetry and hardware, splurging might be worthwhile. These elements of the kitchen stand out, and high-quality pieces can really make a kitchen shine. On the other hand, you clearly don't have to spend top dollar for flooring, as stylish and functional options are available at a lower price.