Artwork in Design

When I work with interior designers, the conversation often starts with fabrics and finishes but I always bring it back to art. Artwork is the emotional anchor of a space, the element that connects the room to the soul of its inhabitants. Without it, even the most meticulously designed interiors can feel incomplete. Over the years, I’ve watched a single painting shift the entire mood of a room, sometimes more than any furniture piece could. The best designs treat art as integral, not as an afterthought. I encourage clients to think about how they want people to feel in a space, and then we choose art that supports that emotion. A minimal space might call for a serene landscape, while a modern loft could demand a striking street art piece. I also believe in layering sculptures, textiles, and wall art can coexist to create a richer narrative. Placement matters; a piece hung too high or in poor lighting loses its impact. Scale is equally important; a tiny artwork on a massive wall can feel lost. Collaboration between artist, gallery, and designer always yields the most cohesive results. When artwork is integrated into design from the beginning, the space feels intentional and alive. That is when a home or business truly becomes a reflection of its owner’s personality.