With a constant stream of new entertainment projects, co-produced product lines, and two young kids at home, interior designers Nate Berkus and Jeremiah Brent are enjoying a lot, shall we say, a lot of time. But when it comes to private commissions, the duo tend to stick with their independent design studios. “We only work together for special clients,” Brent explains succinctly. Fortunately, Brian Robbins, CEO and President of Kids & Family Entertainment at ViacomCBS, and his wife, Tracy James, wardrobe stylist and clothing designer, more than meet the criteria of special. The two couples met when Berkus and Brent designed a Los Angeles home in Hancock Park for Robbins, James, their young daughter, Stella, and Robbins’ sons from a previous marriage, Justin and Miles. They’ve been tough as thieves ever since.
“Honestly, we think of them as family. When we go out to dinner Brian and I are the two little Jews stuffing our mouths with burgers, while Jeremiah and Tracy are across the table laughing over salads and ice cubes, ”Berkus says. James paints a similar picture in slightly more delicate tones: “We have really bonded with them on an emotional level, especially around our children,” she says.
