The Designer’s Guide to Getting Clients On Board With Art—From the Start
As an art advisor partnering closely with interior designers, I’ve seen firsthand that the most successful projects begin with art in mind. When designers introduce art early, clients embrace it as a vital part of their home’s story—not just an afterthought.
In this guide, you’ll discover why art is essential for creating personalized, inspiring spaces, along with practical conversation starters and strategies to help you get clients excited about art from the very beginning of every project.
Why Art Should Lead the Design Conversation
Personal Connection: Art transforms a house into a home by reflecting the client’s unique story.
Design Impact: It adds color, texture, and emotional depth, solving spatial challenges and creating memorable focal points.
Timelessness and Value: Unlike trends, quality art endures and often appreciates, becoming a meaningful legacy.
Sophistication: A curated collection elevates the entire design, making the space feel complete.When designers position art as an essential element rather than an accessory, clients naturally prioritize it within their overall vision.
When art is positioned as essential, clients naturally prioritize it.
How Designers Can Get Clients On Board Early
Start the Conversation in Initial Meetings: Present art as a foundational element of the overall design, not a last-minute addition.
Set Budget Expectations: Encourage clients to allocate a portion of their project budget specifically for art.
Use Client-Centered Language: “Just as we select furnishings that reflect your lifestyle, choosing meaningful art will make this space uniquely yours.”
Explain the Role of an Art Advisor: Share how an advisor guides clients through discovery, education, and acquisition to find art that resonates personally.
Normalizing art early prepares clients to see it as an exciting and integral part of their home.
Making Introductions That Convert
When clients are ready, facilitate a three-way introduction between designer, client, and art advisor:
Send a single email connecting everyone.
Highlight your trusted partnership and how the advisor complements your vision.
Propose an initial consultation to build rapport and clarify the process.
This direct approach builds trust and engagement.
Clarifying Roles for Seamless Collaboration
Designer: Shapes the overall aesthetic and spatial framework.
Art Advisor: Works directly with the client on preferences, budgeting, sourcing, and acquisition.
Both: Maintain open communication to ensure cohesive integration.
Clear roles create a smooth, enjoyable experience for clients.
Benefits to Highlight for Clients
When discussing the value of working with an art advisor, emphasize these key benefits:
Access to a wider, exclusive range of artwork.
Expert guidance tailored to taste and budget.
A streamlined process from selection to installation.
Confidence-building education about collecting.
A long-term, meaningful collection that grows in value and significance.
Final Thoughts
By weaving art into the design narrative from the very start, interior designers elevate their projects and empower clients to create spaces that are visually stunning and deeply personal. Early art integration transforms acquisition from a daunting task into an inspiring journey of self-expression.
At Artamour Advisory, we partner with designers to guide their clients through every step of this process—helping to create homes where art completes the vision and tells a unique story.