As interior designers, we know that art can transform a space, turning a simple room into a thoughtful expression of style and personality. The right piece of art not only complements the design but can add a personal layer of meaning and emotion that elevates the entire room for the client. Art can be the cherry on top of the whole design and a way for your clients to truly feel seen. Choosing art for interiors is an important process, especially when working directly with an artist to create custom pieces. The collaboration between an interior designer, an artist, and the client, allows for the creation of one-of-a-kind artwork that aligns with the client’s personality and the overall design vision. In this post, I’ve collaborated with talented Barcelona-based artist, Kirsty Fenton, to offer tips on how best to work with an artist on an interior design project. Kirsty, who is from Scotland, studied Textile Design at Duncan of Jordanstone in Dundee and then went on to get her Master’s in Interior Design in Barcelona, where she has been living her dream as a full time artist for 13 years.
The Power of Art in Interior Design
Art plays a pivotal role in shaping the atmosphere of a space. Whether bold and vibrant or calming and serene, the right piece of art can evoke emotion and elevate the overall design on a personal level. Kirsty explains, “When creating a unique piece of art for someone’s space, I aim to bridge the gap between their emotions and the environment they are in. I consider how they want to feel when they enter the space—whether they seek to amplify a certain emotion or diminish another.” Art not only complements a room’s aesthetics but also connects deeply with the people who inhabit it.
Selecting art that complements the design is key to creating balance and cohesion in a room. From tying together color schemes and textures to highlighting focal points, a well-chosen piece of art can tie the whole project together. Kirsty emphasizes the importance of understanding the client's emotions when creating custom pieces, saying, “Art has a profound impact on a room, influencing how we feel within it. Therefore, understanding and prioritizing the emotions [the client] wishes to evoke is essential in creating a painting that truly resonates with them.” This thoughtful approach ensures that the artwork is cohesive with the design and resonates with the client on an emotional level.
Collaborating with an artist adds a layer of personalization to any project, turning art into something deeply meaningful for the client. “Ultimately, it’s a collaborative process between the artist and buyer, with the designer acting as the intermediary,” says Kirsty. This collaboration results in art that not only complements the design but also creates a lasting emotional connection.
Understanding the Space
When choosing the right art for a project, it’s essential to consider factors like the size, purpose, and feel of the space. Whether you’re aiming to create a calm or energetic atmosphere, understanding how art will fit into the overall design is key. “The three key factors I discuss with the designer are the artwork's size, style, and budget. It's essential that we clarify these aspects thoroughly before I begin painting,” says Kirsty. By aligning the artwork with the room’s dimensions and purpose, you can ensure the piece enhances the room's design while evoking the desired emotion.
Matching the color palette and style of the artwork to the existing design theme is another crucial step. Art should complement the room’s overall aesthetic while adding personality and depth. “Collaborating closely with the designer is essential to ensure the artwork complements and enhances the space,” says Kirsty. “This often involves visiting the location to get a sense of how my art can elevate the environment.” While custom art can be an investment, there are options for every budget, making it accessible for various projects without sacrificing style.
Collaborating with an Artist to Create Custom Art
Custom art allows designers to work directly with the artist to create one-of-a-kind pieces that are tailored to the space and client. Kirsty advises that, “clear communication is key throughout the entire process. It's essential for the designer to ensure that the artist's style aligns with the homeowner's taste and complements their space.”
The process of commissioning custom art starts with exploring the artist’s portfolio to ensure their style fits the project. “Before the project starts, the client must confirm their appreciation for the artist’s work, either by visiting the studio or exploring the artist's website,” says Kirsty. Once the client and designer are aligned, key details like size, shape, and color palette are agreed upon. While it's important to establish these details, giving the artist creative freedom allows them to produce their best work. Throughout the project, designers should maintain open communication, stay engaged, and track progress to ensure the artwork aligns with the vision.
Incorporating Different Types of Art
When choosing the right type of art for a project, it’s prudent to consider how different mediums—painting, sculpture, photography, or mixed media—can enhance a room’s design. Each medium brings its own unique impact. Kirsty says that she finds painting to be the most versatile for interior design, saying, “I would choose painting because even subtle changes in framing, lighting, or color can dramatically transform the artwork. Paintings add character and depth to a space, often telling a story or evoking emotion.” Paintings have remained a timeless choice, offering versatility and the ability to be the finishing touch on a variety of design styles.
A well-chosen medium, and how it is displayed, can significantly enhance a room’s aesthetic. Kirsty recalls a project with an interior designer in Barcelona where the medium made all the difference. “I suggested framing the piece in glass to create a floating effect, enhancing its modern and minimalist style. By using non-reflective glass, the artwork truly stood out, with no distractions from reflections.” These thoughtful tips from a professional artist, from the choice of medium to how it’s presented, can make a lasting impression on a space and a success story for you and your client.
Tips for Designers When Choosing Art
When choosing art for a room, designers should consider both scale and placement to create the most impact. Properly sized artwork can elevate the room, drawing attention to key areas without overwhelming the space. Furthermore, Kirsty explains, “If a designer selects artwork that aesthetically complements the space but doesn’t resonate with the client, the connection will be missing.” Even if the designer has chosen an objectively beautiful piece of art, it could be missing the mark. It’s important to select pieces that not only fit the design but also reflect the client’s personality and lifestyle.
Kirsty advises designers to start by understanding the client’s tastes. “It's essential for the designer to first understand the client’s personal style and the atmosphere they want to create in their space before seeking out the perfect artist.” Encouraging clients to rotate or update their art periodically is another great way to keep their space feeling fresh. Thoughtful art choices can add depth and meaning to a home while keeping it aligned with the client’s evolving tastes.
Incorporating art into interior design is more than just adding visual appeal—it’s about creating a space that reflects the client’s personality and adds feeling and emotional depth. Working directly with an artist allows designers to customize pieces that fit perfectly with their vision and bring an extra layer of personalization to the design. “The most rewarding part is seeing the artwork showcased in the beautifully curated space—it always feels elevated by the thoughtfully selected interior design,” says Kirsty. For designers looking to create truly unique and personal spaces, exploring custom art options is a great place to start. Collaborating with an artist provides the opportunity to create one-of-a-kind pieces that not only complement the design but also deeply resonate with the client. Whether it's a statement painting or a subtle sculpture, custom art can transform any space into a reflection of the people who live in it and it also elevates your standing as a designer, showcasing your ability to create truly personalized spaces.
Thanks to Kirsty for giving her insight on this intriguing topic. You can find her artwork and learn more about her at https://www.kirstyfenton.com/ and you can find her on Instagram at @kirstyfentonartist
Happy designing!
Candace
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