Decorex Talk: Crafting Spaces, How to Bring Artisan Design Into Your Home

During my talk at Decorex 2024, Crafting Spaces: The Art of Collaboration in Interior Design, I explored the power of craftsmanship with well-known designers Marie Bergman, Charu Gandhi, and Shalini Misra. While our audience was mainly interior designers, the lessons we shared apply to anyone passionate about creating meaningful spaces.

Here’s how you, as a homeowner or collector, can integrate craft into your home and collection—and why it matters.

Why Craft Matters for Your Home

Craftsmanship brings depth and character to a space, setting it apart from mass-produced interiors. I often tell homeowners:
"Craft is more than decoration—it’s a narrative. A handcrafted object carries the story of its maker, the materials, and the process, making it a meaningful addition to your home."

Marie Bergman put it beautifully:
"Craftsmanship takes design to the next level. It adds texture, patina, and uniqueness that can’t be replicated by machines."

Charu Gandhi highlighted another advantage:
"Craft ages beautifully. The patina that develops over time adds even more character, making these pieces feel timeless."

Advice for Collectors:

• Look for crafted pieces that speak to you, whether it’s a hand-thrown vase, a woven rug, or a bespoke piece of furniture.
• Choose items with textures and materials that age well, such as wood, leather, or hand-forged metal.

How to Start Your Craft Journey

You don’t need a substantial budget to bring craft into your home. The key is to start small and let your collection grow over time. As I shared during the talk:
"Craft is not about cost—it’s about perspective. Even a single handcrafted item can bring warmth and personality to a room."

Shalini Misra added:
"Pairing contemporary designs with traditional craft techniques creates a fresh, modern aesthetic. Even emerging artisans can bring incredible value to your home."

Tips for Starting Out:

• Invest in One Statement Piece: A handcrafted dining table, a sculptural light fixture, or a bespoke rug can anchor a room.
• Mix Old and New: Vintage craft pieces can blend beautifully with modern interiors, adding character and charm.
• Explore Accessible Craft: Look for handmade ceramics, artisanal textiles, or crafted decorative objects to start small.

How to Find Authentic Craft

Discovering authentic craft can feel overwhelming, but there are many ways to find unique pieces that resonate with you. During the talk, I recommended:
"Visit craft fairs, galleries, and local markets. Meeting artisans in person allows you to connect with their stories and understand their work on a deeper level."

Marie Bergman suggested leveraging social media:
"Platforms like Instagram are great for finding artisans. Search hashtags like #Handcrafted or #ArtisanMade to discover talented makers from around the world."

Where to Look:

• Craft Fairs: Events like London Craft Week or Collect Fair showcase a wide range of artisans and their work.
• Online Platforms: Explore websites like The New Craftsmaker for curated collections.
• Local Markets and Studios: Visit nearby artisan markets or studios to support local talent and find one-of-a-kind pieces.

The Value of Craftsmanship in Collecting

For collectors, craftsmanship offers an opportunity to own pieces with both aesthetic and historical significance. Charu Gandhi encouraged collectors to see craft as more than functional:
"Craft is an art form in its own right. By collecting craft, you preserve traditions and support the artisans who keep them alive."

Shalini Misra shared her experience with endangered crafts:
"We worked with a lace-making factory at risk of closure, transforming their work into contemporary wall art. This kind of reinvention keeps traditions relevant and ensures they’re not lost."

Advice for Collectors:

• Focus on materials and techniques that resonate with you, whether ceramics, textiles, or woodworking.
• Seek out endangered crafts or unique techniques to add depth and meaning to your collection.
• Build relationships with artisans or galleries to understand the stories behind the pieces.

Incorporating Craft into Your Home

Once you’ve found crafted pieces you love, the next step is making them work within your home. During the talk, I shared:
"Craft is versatile—it can be a bold statement or a subtle accent. The key is to think about how it interacts with the other elements in your space."

Charu Gandhi explained how craft adds layers to a room:
"Craft lends texture, patina, and depth. Even a single handcrafted object can create a focal point or tie a space together."

Tips for Displaying Craft:

• Create Focal Points: Use a handcrafted piece as the centre of attention, like a custom dining table or an oversized ceramic vase.
• Layer Textures: Mix crafted textiles, wood, and ceramics to add warmth and interest.
• Tell a Story: Group pieces that share a common narrative, like items made from local materials or by artisans you’ve met.

Preserving and Supporting Craft

As a homeowner or collector, you can play a vital role in preserving craftsmanship. By supporting artisans, you ensure their skills endure for future generations. I shared with the audience:
"When you invest in craft, you’re not just buying an object—you’re supporting a tradition and investing in culture."

Marie Bergman echoed this:
"Craftsmanship is thriving now more than ever. Social media and events have made artisans more accessible—don’t hesitate to connect and learn their stories."

How You Can Support Craft:

• Buy Direct: Whenever possible, purchase pieces directly from artisans to ensure they receive fair compensation.
• Champion Stories: Share the stories behind your crafted items with friends and family, spreading awareness of their value.
• Stay Curious: Learn about endangered crafts and seek ways to integrate them into your home or collection.