How top Designers choose their Art
P A R T T W O
Artwork is often the soul of a space...
It sets the tone, sparks emotion, and can even become the driving force behind an entire interior concept.
But how do designers select the right piece for the right room?
I’ve spoken with so many talented interior designers and decorators lately - this week Nikki, Tamara and Erin gave me a behind-the-scenes look at how they source, select and incorporate artwork into their projects.
Sourcing the Perfect Piece
When it comes to finding art, all three designers lean toward a hands-on approach.
Nikki from Manea Interiors and Tamara from Sage Home Styling typically source works themselves whether from trusted suppliers or directly from artists.
Tamara notes that “Sometimes I am introduced to new artists through my clients or contacts in the design world” - a happy byproduct of working in such a collaborative field.
As far as whether they look for original work, prints or a mix of both - this process can guided by a few factors,
Nikki emphasizes that, “The project budget usually determines this”
While Tamara seeks a mix of both, depending on the needs of each project.
The Client Connection
Art is deeply personal, so it’s no surprise that client involvement varies from project to project.
“I will present to the client what I think is best for the space and overall look we are trying to achieve and make any changes based on their feedback”, Nikki explains.
Tamara agrees: “Art is very personal, so I’m more than happy for my clients to be involved.”
Interestingly, while Nikki’s clients tend to gravitate toward abstract styles, Tamara hasn’t seen a strong pattern in client preferences.
Both agree that there hasn’t been a significant shift in what resonates with clients lately - art remains a uniquely individual choice.
Balancing Aesthetics, Budgets and Time
Sourcing art isn’t without its challenges. For Nikki the biggest hurdle is “…not being able to see the piece before sourcing…”
For Tamara it’s about time - finding the right piece is a process that requires patience and precision.
So what do these designers wish more artists or galleries understood?
For decorators “A particular style is not going to be right for every project,” Nikki says, “We have to shop around a lot to find the right piece.”
Tamara adds, “I think it's potentially well known that a design can often be influenced by a piece of art. It is the centre of the story and we build around it a lot of the time.”
Art as the Starting Point
No one embodies this philosophy more than Erin from Focal Point Interiors -
“I start thinking about artwork right at the beginning,” she explains. “I like to begin by identifying the focal point of the space. Sometimes that’s already built in (like a striking fireplace or an amazing view) but when it’s not, artwork can absolutely become that ‘hero’.”
Erin often attaches a word to the chosen piece - something that captures its essence like ‘fun’ ‘brave’ or ‘escape’ - and uses it as a ‘north star’ for the rest of the design.
She sources from a mix of trusted brands and independent artists, steering away from mass-produced pieces to maintain a sense of originality.
Style, Adaptation, and Harmony
Erin’s taste leans into Modern Mediterranean with Mid-Century influences, and she often adds a playful twist, “…whether it’s a bold pop of retro colour, nostalgic shapes, or a cheeky detail…”
When it comes to placement, she prefers large, statement pieces over gallery walls, “I find that a single artwork has more presence and allows the eye to settle, rather than competing for attention across multiple pieces.”
But she’s also flexible, ensuring that each piece suits the client and space. “…Some clients love bold, expressive art that makes a statement, while others prefer something subtle and calming….
I might guide them toward a style or colour palette that ties in with the overall design, or introduce them to artists that align with their vibe.
Sometimes a client doesn’t know what they like until they see it, so part of my role is helping them discover that.”
And how does she ensure that the artwork complements the overall design of a space?
“…it needs to feel intentional, not an afterthought.
Sometimes that means pulling colours from the artwork into textiles or accessories or echoing the shapes and lines in furniture and decor. Other times it’s about contrast…Either way, the goal is harmony.
When it’s done well, the artwork feels like it belongs and enhances the space, without dominating it.”
Whether it’s sourced at the beginning to set the tone or chosen later to complete the look, artwork plays a central role in the world of interior design.
What becomes clear from speaking with these designers is that choosing art isn’t just a matter of taste - it’s about storytelling, intuition and deep collaboration between the designer, the client and sometimes even the artist themselves.
Tamara from Sage Home Styling
instagram.com/sage.home.styling
Nikki from Manea Interiors
Erin from Focal Point Interiors -
instagram.com/focal_point_interior