The United States of Design

By Linda Tischler, Fast Company

From GM to 3M, in boardrooms and on Wall Street, in Silicon Valley and on Madison Avenue, design matters more than ever. Around the globe, American designers have never been more influential. Welcome to an unexpected and inspiring moment.

For the complete story, please visit:  http://www.fastcompany.com/design/2011/united-states-of-design-american-designers

If you need help with art and design for your company, contact us at (888) 440-9260 or visit our website at:  www.artrentandlease.com - we provide artwork to beautify and enhance your space, tie into your branding and improve morale.

HGTV Designer's Choice - Outta This World Orange!

We loved this photo of a room designed by Celia Berliner, seen on the HGTV.com website and wanted to share with you!  The only thing missing is a beautiful painting on the orange wall behind the seating area - we'd recommend "Creation" by Francine Kohn to tie in the rug, floor colors - everything!

We're here if you need help with art in your space and, we have a fantastic new rotating rental program, so call us (888) 440-9260 - art rentals, lease art, art sales - we have it all!

The Value of Hiring an Interior Designer

An interior designer can provide years of expertise, industry knowledge and artistic creativity to the client - some on an hourly fee basis, some on a cost plus/product mark-up, or a combination of both.  Know the costs up-front and the difference in billing styles - while the cost plus/product mark-up sounds harsh, in reality it can save you a great deal of money.  Some suppliers sell only "to the trade" and can offer discounts up to 50% off retail.  A designer may pass this discounted price to their client and add 10 - 20% as their "fee" - and the client still saves 30 to 40% or more!

If you're hiring a designer, make sure the contract clearly states all the costs, including incidentals such as telephone calls, internet search, and travel time.  Designers frequently know the latest and greatest products and materials out there, so they're not re-inventing the wheel with each new client - you'll have the advantage when hiring an expert.  Get recommendations and referrals and be sure to check references.  You'll be glad you hired an expert who can save you time and money on your design project.

For a referral, you can visit the ASID (American Society of Interior Design) web site:  http://www.asid.org/referral.htm

What Can a Corporate Art Consultant do for YOU?

Anyone who makes decisions regarding a space where any work is done should consider the time and cost savings of an art consultant. An art consultant is invaluable in the decisions of where to place art, what kind of art, and what financing options are available to meet budget needs.

The two biggest stumbling blocks to moving past bare walls is fear of picking something that someone will not like and then working within a budget. Believe me, an art consultant has everyday experience in these two hang ups. To say that most people in that position feel your pain is an understatement.

What often happens is that those two points cause decision makers not to decide and those walls stay empty. The message to customers and the morale of employees remain bare and tax incentives are left on the table.

Obviously, Building and Facility Planners can and often do benefit from the services of an art consultant. But there are so many others who could benefit. Within almost any budget. Have you ever thought about utilizing an art consultant for short term needs? Examples of short term options where an art consultant can be an invaluable part of the team are advertising shoots, home staging's for resale, open houses for professional offices or even movie sets.

So, what are you waiting for? Call us today and start reaping the benefits! 888-440-9260 for a free initial consultation.

Design is Trending toward TAN (and we're not talking a spray on!)

From COLOURlovers
Versatile and soothing, in a home (or office) tan can be used in healthy doses. Add a rich color to it and you're set. What are your thoughts on tan? Do you find it soothing? Or do you find it too dull?

We can help design your space - add some versatile and colorful artwork, just give us a quick call for a free consultation: (888) 440-926- x710 - our consultants can help you with an art lease, art rental or purchase!