I've been thinking a lot lately about how designers talk about sourcing art for clients, and the consistency of their advice is striking. Across studios and styles, a few themes keep surfacing. So here's what the professionals are actually saying boiled down to a few important points:
what a designer would tell you:
1. The artwork in your home sets the tone and tells a story. Let it be layered, curated, interesting, quirky, multi-dimensional- just like you.
2. Budget for art! Many people only budget for couches and chairs and don’t even think about the art until those things are in place. A room will not feel complete without art. Can you leave some walls blank? Yes, to let the fab art you selected on the other walls shine.
3. Building a collection takes time and patience. Don’t settle for that trendy piece just because you need something. Wait until you find work that makes you do a double take.
4. Scale Up. A bigger work of art has much more impact than a collection of smaller pieces.
To quote interior designer and art consultant Kassandra von Etzdorf:
“I firmly believe every space needs at least one unexpected piece—something a little strange, a little bold, something that sparks conversation and keeps things interesting. Art doesn't have to be intimidating or crazy expensive, either! There is so much out there and available at all price points. If you love the art, go for it. You can make anything work in your space as long as you love it.
When I was little, we moved a few times, but our art was always the constant. Placing those pieces in a new home is what made it feel grounded and familiar—like everything else could shift, but the essence stayed the same.”