The Best Way for Interior Designers to Work with Artists

Art can make – or sometimes break – a room. When done right, it elevates a space, enhances focus, and supports the flow of the room. But when it's not chosen or placed thoughtfully, it can jar, distract, and even clash with the overall design, undoing much of your hard work as an interior designer.

For those who treat art as a thoughtful addition rather than a last-minute accessory, the results are worth the investment. While it may sometimes be tempting to find a piece that “works” and leave it at that, the most impactful art is chosen or created with the room’s vision and function in mind. It becomes more than a filler in an empty space – it’s a layered, cohesive element that adds depth and meaning to the narrative of the room.

The Role of Art as an Integrated Design Element

To truly benefit from the potential of art in a space, it helps to bring artists into the conversation early in the design process. At this stage, an artist’s vision and creativity can complement yours, offering fresh insights and unique perspectives.

Art, when integrated into the design phase, can seamlessly align with the room’s aesthetic and functionality. This approach not only makes art a cohesive part of the room but also deepens the emotional connection for the client, as the art feels tailor-made for the space.

The client's London home is signified on their bespoke map in a place only they can tell, giving them the power to share the story with others and transform the meaning of the piece

Early Collaboration Creates Possibilities

As an artist specializing in abstract map artwork of people's homes, I find that early collaboration with designers allows for an alignment of our creative intentions. My creative process is flexible and adaptable, often resulting in work that incorporates and respects the vision set by the designer while adding new layers of meaning.

Rather than treating the artwork as a separate component, the early involvement of an artist can help to subtly connect spaces and offer alternative ideas, materials, or even complementary elements like designed textile patterns that turn a great room into a stunning one.

These signed individual bowls are made with the materials used to create the primary piece of art

Custom Art That Complements, Not Competes

Interior designers who collaborate with artists often find that artists bring fresh and unique ideas to their projects. For example, in producing customised abstract maps of important places to clients, my artwork gives people a story to tell on top of being something visually impactful to look at. My designs can span multiple canvases in a range of dimensions, with colour palettes tailored to complement the room’s overall scheme.

As an addition, I also include smaller, one-of-a-kind signed bowls crafted from the tape used in creating the main artwork. These extras aren’t just afterthoughts—they’re intentional additions that extend the story of the main piece and can be strategically planned for to support the room’s flow.

Why Early Artist Involvement Matters

Working with artists early on means they can present unexpected options that may enhance your project. For instance, by sharing your design vision with the artist, they may suggest complementary pieces for other rooms or even collaborate on the design of textiles or smaller accent pieces. This not only makes the art feel less like an add-on but also enables it to flow cohesively throughout the space, enhancing the overall experience of the design.

Choosing an Artist for Your Next Interior Design Project

If you're considering adding custom artwork to your next project, remember that the right piece can bring unmatched value and character to your design. Beyond simply fitting into a room, carefully chosen art can elevate your space, creating a unique story that resonates with the client. Working with an artist who aligns with your design ethos can create a lasting partnership, one that brings added meaning and continuity to your projects.

If you’d like a bespoke map tailored to your client’s home, office, or of a meaningful landmark, don’t hesitate to get in touch here, or email theartistrecognition@gmail.com to discuss your vision.