As a designer and art collector, I see art as the soul of a space. It’s the punctuation that completes the sentence of a room, the emotional connection that adds depth, and the narrative thread that ties a design together. Art isn’t just an addition to my design process—it’s a voice, a feeling, and often, the defining character of a space. More than just selecting pieces that match a color palette, curating art is about weaving a story, creating a dialogue between the space and its inhabitants, and elevating the emotional resonance of a room.
When done with intention, art curation transforms a space into something deeply personal, layered, and timeless. It’s not about filling walls—it’s about bringing life, history, and energy into a home or commercial project.
The Intentionality Behind Art Curation
Curating art for a project begins long before we even think about placement. It starts with understanding the essence of the space—its architecture, function, and the emotions it should evoke. Just as an artist thoughtfully constructs a composition, I curate artwork that enhances the spatial rhythm, narrative, and personality of the environment.
Unlike traditional art selection, which might focus primarily on aesthetics, curation is about storytelling. I think about:
• What do we want the space to say?
• How should people feel when they experience it?
• What artistic voices align with the project’s essence?
Each piece curated is a deliberate decision, ensuring that the art doesn’t just exist in the space—it belongs to it.
My Process of Art Curation in Design Projects
1. Defining the Narrative
Before sourcing any pieces, I dive into the client’s personal connection to art. What moves them? What kind of energy do they want their home or space to hold? Do they have an existing collection, or are they looking to build one?
For a modern Italian villa, the curation might lean toward classical references with a contemporary edge—sculptural forms, abstract interpretations or modern fresco-inspired works. For a client who loves vibrant, expressive pieces, I might explore emerging artists with bold, textural storytelling.
2. Sourcing with Purpose
Once the artistic direction is set, I begin a highly curated search—whether through artist studios, private collections, galleries, or bespoke commissions. I look beyond what’s trending and seek pieces that speak to the space and the client.
Some sources I rely on:
Gallery relationships – Finding unique works that aren’t mass-market.
Studio visits – Engaging directly with artists to discover exclusive pieces.
Art fairs & private collections – Sourcing rare and investment-worthy art.
Custom commissions – Collaborating with artists to create something unique for the space.
3. Placing Art with Intention
Art placement is just as critical as the curation itself. It’s not just about hanging a piece on a wall—it’s about how it interacts with light, movement, and the surrounding design elements.Some placement considerations:
Sightlines & Flow – Ensuring the artwork is experienced naturally as someone moves through the space.
Scale & Proportion – Making sure the art harmonizes with furniture, architecture, and ceiling height.
Lighting & Atmosphere – Enhancing pieces with natural or strategic lighting to shift the mood throughout the day.
4. Creating a Living Collection
Great curation isn’t static—it evolves. I often work with clients to build an ongoing collection, allowing their space to transform over time. Whether it’s rotating seasonal pieces, acquiring investment art, or introducing sculptures and mixed media, the collection grows with the client’s story.
Art as the Final, Yet Defining, Layer
Art isn’t just the finishing touch—it’s the heartbeat of a space, the quiet force that shapes its energy. A well-curated piece doesn’t just fill a wall; it sparks conversation, stirs emotion, and leaves an imprint long after you’ve left the room. Thoughtful curation transforms interiors into living, breathing reflections of those who inhabit them—layered, unexpected, and undeniably compelling.
See how art transforms our projects by exploring our portfolio. And if you’re curious to discover some of the artists we love and work with, visit our Gallery.
