Artful Interiors: Why Designers Rely on Expert Advisers to Elevate Their Spaces
In a recent Artsy feature by Maxwell Rabb (7 Interior Designers Share Their Tips on Buying Art for Your Home | Artsy), interior designers—including Brigette Romanek and Michael Bargo—shared how they thoughtfully select art for their clients’ homes. Their perspectives illuminate a deeper truth: art is not just decoration but an anchor helping to aesthetically support and define the emotional and physical space. Whether installing works of art by artists who are up-and-coming or strategically placing a showstopper by a well-established blue-chip artist, choosing the right artwork is just as crucial as selecting the right furniture or lighting.
Brigette Romanek highlighted a critically important aspect of the art buying process–emotional resonance. “If it takes your breath away or stirs something in you, that’s the feeling to follow.” Romanek noted that even a single, powerful piece can bring depth and soul to a room. Meanwhile, Michael Bargo’s eclectic mix of vintage design and contemporary art reveals how art can function as a unifying thread across styles and eras.
Behind the scenes, a successful design-art pairing often relies on the input of a knowledgeable adviser. A skilled art adviser does far more than source pieces—they understand budget constraints, guide clients through the nuances of collecting, and help them sidestep the predictable pull of blue-chip names. While trophy artworks by market darlings can dazzle, advisers offer a broader and more thoughtful perspective, introducing clients to emerging artists, underrepresented voices, and works that may appreciate in value while holding personal meaning. Furthermore, good advisers (and hopefully designers as well) stress patience—navigating and avoiding the urge to fill every wall quickly—as well as careful consideration for how framing, placement, and surprise (like art in kitchens or bathrooms) can impact a room’s personality. Advisers serve as educators, demystifying the art world and helping clients develop confidence and taste, rather than just a collection.
But here’s a truism worth remembering: not all art advisers are created equal. The rise in popularity of art collecting has brought with it a surge of self-proclaimed experts—many of whom lack formal training, deep experience, or trusted relationships with dealers and artists. Without proper credentials or a long-standing reputation, these individuals may steer clients toward superficial choices or misrepresented works–and that is why due diligence is critical. Designers and collectors alike should seek out advisers with transparent track records, verified references, and a spotless professional reputation. A truly knowledgeable adviser not only opens doors to great art, but also protects the integrity of the process every step of the way.
The takeaway is clear: great design isn’t just about how things look—it’s about how they feel and how they function together. By collaborating with an adviser who understands both aesthetics and logistics, interior designers can create spaces where art doesn’t just sit on a wall but truly lives in the room.
