Interior designers often look to faraway locales as they envision spaces from lush hospitality settings to modern office environments. Yet now they are staying closer to home to find inspiration as they craft interiors that are inviting. Utilizing the work of local artists and manufacturers can capture the spirit of a place, offering personalization rather than the mass-produced sameness all too common in the marketplace.
Even with tight budgets and condensed timelines, uniqueness is a key driver, as people strive to differentiate their rooms or buildings. ”The idea of having a signature has become more important. People want to have exceptional spaces and furnishings that can’t be found in a typical store. Every item is selected for its color, texture, or character. It has to stand out in some way,” said Diane Burgio, founder of Brooklyn-based firm Diane Burgio Design.
By referencing the design language of the local community, whether it is a town or region of a state, employees and visitors embrace the authenticity. “It is about being able to tell the story of the company or brand. When I work with a local artist or maker, not only am I finding things I might never have, I am trying to shape the experience that people have in the lobby or a lounge,” explained Christie zumBrunnen, chief design officer at TRIO, a company in Denver that provides interior design services for developers.
She noted that co-working spaces are popular in multifamily buildings, and the design team turns to nature and the surrounding landscape for added vibrancy. Artisanal wares, textiles, custom patterns and signage are made that evoke the spirit of a destination without having to travel, which adds to the expense of a project. “We draw on so many elements, from the sky to animals native to the region, especially for the color palettes. There are nuances and layers that bring in a wonderful visual richness.”
Photo courtesy of TRIO
For Jessica Klaus, partner at Diane Burgio Design, natural materials like wood or stone have imperfections and textures with organic appeal. When local craftspeople spin yarn or polish a slab of marble, they leave an imprint that resonates with the end-user. “There’s a level of detail that is getting more and more difficult to find. Small-scale production or limited edition runs allow us to choose something special that has meaning for a client. It may remind them of a favorite vacation or family event, and we can recreate that feeling for them every time they step into the space,” she said.
Using local artists and fabricators is also top of mind post-pandemic. There is now added concern about air quality or chemicals that may be present in cleaning products. Specifiers are calling for material transparency, and the average consumer wants to learn as much as possible about how and where goods are made. “When you source locally, there is peace of mind because you have eliminated the questions about what you have purchased,” Burgio noted. “And people just feel good about having something that comes from where they live.”
Purveyors hold workshops, open house events, or classes that give members of the community the opportunity to gather together and channel their own creativity. “It is fun to participate in a studio tour or to watch a demonstration, but it also gives people an appreciation for craftsmanship. A handmade, custom piece has value,” Klaus explained.
When working at the local level, professionals can avoid a myriad of hassles, from shipping delays to quality control issues. “While there are always some challenges, it has become easier to have certain pieces made,” zumBrunnen said. “Designers or architects are able to communicate directly with the fabricator about any adjustments that are required. They don’t have those problems with transportation, incorrect measurements, or any of the other issues that may affect an order. With so many variables to contend with, that is one less stressor.”
Locally made goods ultimately change our perception of an interior, and also make our interactions as we move throughout a space memorable. “It is really rewarding when a client is not only pleased with our design, but when they realize they have made a positive impact by contributing to the people or economy of their own town or neighborhood,” Klaus added.
