Since its premiere last year, the second coming of Queer Eye was an instant fan favorite. Five uberstylish men coach the quintessential straight male on all things culture, design, food, beauty and style. Bobby Berk (bobbyberk.com), the show’s resident design guru, takes cues from his Houston roots to transform the environment—and lives—of the show’s heroes. On the heels of the release of its third season, Berk dishes on his Southern upbringing, hip new furniture line and more.
So you’re from Houston?
I was born in St. Joseph downtown! I moved to Missouri within three days, but I spent summers and holidays in Houston with my grandmother.
Describe your design style.
My personal design aesthetic is clean and modern. Our house is black and white, and Scandinavian in style—uncluttered with a masculine flair.
What impact does your Texas upbringing have on your work on the show?
I understand that these folks look at what we do as ‘fancy.’ Hiring a designer is not something most people are able to do. I understand that feeling and am sensitive to that, because I felt the same way growing up.
What is your favorite part about being on Queer Eye?
My favorite part is that I get to use design to really effect change in people’s lives. I get messages from our heroes all the time—that they wake up in their space so much happier now.
Season three is out. For those who haven’t binged, what can we expect?
You’ll see a lot more women. We are excited to be working with more female heroes—we have a lot more fun with the girls!
Tell us about your new furniture line with A.R.T. Furniture.
I wanted to do a large collection with pieces that can intermix with each other. I was thinking of the city dweller—a cool modern style with an elegant twist.
Photography by: ALEXANDRA GENERALES PHOTOGRAPHY
