How top Designers choose their Art

P A R T   O N E   

Recently, I’ve had the opportunity to speak with some amazing interior decorators and designers and gain their perspectives on artwork in interiors and how they select pieces for their clients.

I was curious about their individual processes and asked them:

“Do you typically source art yourself, collaborate with artists directly, or use a consultant?”

Keren Brown from Keren Brown Interiors says that she always selects artwork with her clients.

As to whether she goes for originals, prints, or a mix of both, she says it’s all dependent “on the project, the budget, and what the client is looking for.”

Sharon from Styled and Staged says she generally follows her clients lead when it comes to sourcing art,

“If they already have an artist they love or would like to explore, I’ll happily reach out on their behalf… my role is to support them in finding something they love and that compliments their home.”

Both Keren and Sharon agree that the client needs to be involved in choosing the artwork.

As Sharon puts it, “Art is such a personal thing… I do guide them in terms of what size would work best in the space and what colours or tones will tie in with the rest of the scheme.

Ultimately, the decision is theirs because I want them to truly connect with the pieces they choose to put in their home.”

Keren adds, “Sometimes they already have a special piece of art and we design a room around that. So sometimes it can be the jumping-off point for the entire design process - colour palette, style, era, etc.”

As far as style and aesthetics, Keren says this varies from project to project:

“…some clients are very traditional, and others a little more quirky and prepared to push the boundaries.”

Sharon notes that many of her clients aren’t always sure where to start,

“…they’re often unsure whether they prefer abstract, landscapes, or photography and what colours would work. I try to gently guide them, showing examples that would suit their space - but again, the final choice always comes down to what resonates most with them.”

Designers and stylists face many challenges when it comes to sourcing artwork for a project. Sharon explains that quite often, “clients can feel overwhelmed or unsure about what they like - especially when they’ve never purchased art before. It’s my job to make that process feel less intimidating and more enjoyable…”

Another challenge is getting everyone on the same page, as Keren points out, “Husbands and Wives can have very different choices!”

Ultimately, choosing art is one of the most personal and impactful parts of the design process - and designers source it through a thoughtful mix of collaboration, intuition and client connection.

 

Stay tuned for PART TWO as we talk to more designers and decorators about ART and their processes for choosing it!

Sharon from Styled & Staged - instagram.com/styleandstaged_au

 

Keren Brown from Keren Brown Interiors - instagram.com/kerenbrowninteriors