Creating custom home décor is a gratifying and fulfilling endeavor, especially when collaborating with local artists. Not only do you get to adorn your space with unique pieces that reflect your personal style, but you also support and promote local talent (like me!).
This past year, I was asked to transform nursery walls in a home with a new paint scheme and custom-designed accent panels. The homeowners were inspired by walls they had seen in a home décor magazine, and my job was to adapt this aesthetic to their nursery. The finished result was a beautiful and elegant room that seamlessly integrated with the furniture and spoke to the homeowners’ personal tastes. The project made me reflect on the value of custom home décor and how I am uniquely suited as an artist to help others bring their vision to life.
Walls Before:  | Walls After:  |
Before relocating to North Carolina to take up fine art as my full-time profession, I had a career in the Hollywood film industry- working in the art department on countless movies, tv shows, and music videos. My job was to make the spaces being filmed look and feel like the real thing- whether that was a historic hotel, a damp prison cell, a teenager’s bedroom, or even the surface of the moon! Everything had to be believable. It required a keen eye for aesthetics, the ability to flawlessly interpret the production designers’ vision, and the ingenuity and resourcefulness to make it happen on time and on budget. Every detail had to be accounted for- from the period-accurate vintage wallpaper, or the graffiti on the prison toilet, to the distressed sheets of a hastily made bed. Everything was custom. And it is this kind of custom detail that turns a movie set into a real—alive—space that resonates with the viewer on an emotional level- because it “feels” real.
Why Choose Custom Home Décor?
Custom home décor works in much the same way. It goes beyond mere aesthetics—it's about creating a space that feels uniquely yours. Unlike mass-produced items, custom pieces carry a deeper emotional connection because they are crafted with your vision in mind. Some benefits include:
Personalization: With custom décor, you can match your exact preferences and style, ensuring that every piece complements your space perfectly. Whether it’s a mural that brings a serene landscape to life or a hand-painted dresser that enhances your bedroom, the possibilities are endless. Quality: Custom pieces that are handcrafted by skilled artists using durable, high-quality, materials are designed to last, making them a worthwhile investment in your home. Uniqueness: When you commission a custom piece, you’re guaranteed something no one else has. These one-of-a-kind creations turn your home into a personal gallery, showcasing your individuality.
Types of Custom Home Décor You Can Commission
When it comes to custom home décor, the possibilities are virtually infinite. You are only limited by your imagination and the skill of the artist you are working with. These are Just a few types of décor that I have been commissioned to create:
 Murals: Murals can set the tone for a room, adding drama, sophistication, or whimsy. Whether it’s a peaceful forest in your bedroom or an abstract design in your office, a mural transforms a plain wall into a conversation piece. |  Portraits: Custom portraits capture meaningful moments, loved ones, or cherished pets in stunning detail. They make for timeless keepsakes and thoughtful gifts. |
 Furniture: Functional doesn’t mean boring. Custom-painted furniture—like dressers, headboards, or coffee tables—adds personality to your space. |  Seasonal Décor: From hand-painted garden flags to festive holiday signage, custom seasonal pieces bring warmth and charm to your celebrations. |
The Process of Commissioning Custom Décor
Creating custom décor is a collaborative and rewarding process. Here’s what to expect:
Step 1: Understanding Your Style and Needs
Before you begin your search for a local artist, it's important to define your style and understand what you need. Consider the following:
Assess Your Space: Take note of the areas in your home that you want to decorate. Consider the size, color scheme, and overall aesthetic of each space.
Gather Inspiration: Create a mood board or save images of home décor that resonates with you. This can include color palettes, patterns, and themes that you adore.
Determine Your Preferences: Decide on the type of art you are interested in—paintings, sculptures, textiles, or mixed media. Think about the materials and techniques that appeal to you.
Step 2: Finding the Right Artist for Your Custom Home Décor
Finding the right artist is crucial for creating custom home décor that you will cherish. Look for an artist whose style aligns with your vision. Check their portfolio and client reviews, and don’t be afraid to ask questions about their process. Here are some ways to find local talent:
Attend Art Fairs and Galleries: Visit local art fairs, galleries, and exhibitions to discover artists whose work you admire.
Browse Online Platforms: Use websites like Instagram, Etsy, and local artist directories to find artists in your area. Follow local art organizations and hashtags to stay updated on emerging talent.
Seek Recommendations: Ask friends, family, and colleagues if they know of any local artists who specialize in custom home décor. Check for reviews on Yelp.
Step 3: Initial Consultation
Once you've identified a potential artist, it's time to initiate a conversation and discuss a possible collaboration. This is where the magic begins. During my consultations, I listen to your ideas, review inspiration images, and consider details like color palettes and room dimensions. Together, we refine your vision to ensure the final piece fits seamlessly into your space.
Contact the Artist: Reach out to the artist via email or social media and express your interest in their work. Include images of your space and your inspiration board to give them an idea of what you're looking for.
Discuss Your Vision: Schedule a meeting to discuss your project in detail. Be clear about your preferences, budget, and timeline. Be open to the artist's suggestions and expertise. I now offer free virtual consultations for many projects.
Set Clear Expectations: Agree on the scope of the project, including the number of pieces, sizes, materials, and delivery dates.
Step 4: Trust the Creative Process
Collaboration with an artist involves a balance of guidance and creative freedom. Trust the artist's vision, and allow them to explore their creativity while adhering to your preferences. I provide sketches or digital mockups to bring your ideas to life. We’ll then collaborate on any adjustments to ensure the design meets your expectations.
Provide Feedback: Give constructive feedback during the creation process. It's important to communicate your thoughts while respecting the artist's creative process.
Stay Patient: Custom art takes time. Allow the artist the time they need to create something truly special for your home.
Step 5: Creation and Installation
Once the design is approved, I begin the meticulous process of creating your piece. Depending on the project, I also assist with installation to ensure the final product is flawless. When the artwork is completed, it's time to bring it into your home:
Review the Finished Work: Ensure that the final pieces meet your expectations and reflect your initial vision.
Installation: Work with the artist to determine the best way to install the pieces in your home. Depending on the project, I’ll handle installation or provide detailed guidance to ensure it’s placed perfectly in your home.
Celebrate Your Collaboration: Host a gathering to showcase your new décor and celebrate the collaboration with the artist. Share the story of your custom pieces with friends and family.
Tips for a Successful Collaboration
Working with an artist should be a fun and enriching experience. Here’s how to make the most of it:
Communicate Clearly: Share your vision in detail but remain open to creative suggestions. Also reflect on any goals you have for your space- what is the feel and function.
Set a Realistic Budget: Custom work varies in price based on size, complexity, time, and materials.
Be Patient: Quality takes time. Trust the process and enjoy watching your vision come to life.
From my perspective as an artist, clients who bring photos or fabric swatches always help me in designing pieces that fit perfectly into their space!
Supporting Local Artists: Why It Matters
Choosing to work with a local artist means investing in your community. You’re not only getting a unique piece but also supporting small businesses and helping sustain local culture. Plus, working locally reduces the environmental impact associated with mass-produced décor. When you commission a piece from me, you’re supporting a dream and getting one-of-a-kind décor that tells a story.
Your dream décor is just a conversation away. Let’s bring your vision to life together! Contact me to schedule a free consultation. Let’s create something beautiful for your home!
Interested in working with Katie?
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