Art can do more than just beautify a space—it can increase the value of your property, attract high-end tenants, and reflect your brand’s identity in a way that makes your building stand out. As a commercial property developer or manager, you’re probably always on the lookout for ways to enhance your space and boost its worth. While you might already be familiar with the aesthetic appeal of art, you might not realize the full financial and strategic advantages that come with hiring an art consultant.
Let’s dive into why hiring an art consultant can be one of the smartest moves you make for your property—and how it can skyrocket the value of your collection and space.
Why Hiring an Art Consultant Will Skyrocket Your Collection’s Value
What Does an Art Consultant Actually Do?
More Than Just Picking Pretty Pictures
Art consultants do far more than simply suggest art for your walls. Think of them as experts who blend knowledge of the art market with a keen eye for how art can influence the perception and value of a property. They guide you through purchasing, placing, and managing your art collection in a way that maximizes both aesthetic appeal and financial return.
As an art consultant, I work closely with clients to understand their spaces, budgets, and goals, ensuring that every piece of art serves a purpose. From negotiating with galleries to curating an entire building’s worth of art, consultants handle the entire process.
Curating Art Specifically for Commercial Spaces
For commercial property developers and managers, an art consultant’s role is particularly strategic. We know how to choose pieces that resonate with your target tenants, reflect your building’s brand identity, and create a lasting impression.
How Art Increases Property Value
Art as an Investment
Let’s talk about the financial side. Art is an investment, plain and simple. But like any investment, it needs to be managed properly to realize its full potential. By hiring an art consultant, you can ensure that the pieces you acquire have strong investment potential and will appreciate over time.
For example, many property managers make the mistake of buying trendy pieces that look good in the moment but lose value quickly. A good art consultant can help you avoid this trap by focusing on works with long-term potential. We know which artists are up-and-coming and whose work will likely appreciate, so you’re not just buying art—you’re making an investment in your property’s future.
Boosting Perceived Value for Tenants
Art doesn’t just increase the literal value of your property; it also increases the perceived value for potential tenants. A beautifully curated art collection makes a building feel more prestigious and can justify higher rental prices.
Think about it—when a tenant walks into a lobby that has been thoughtfully designed with impressive artwork, it gives the impression that they are in a space that is high-class and well-maintained. It’s not just a building; it’s an experience. In one case, a client I worked with saw an increase in their average rent per square foot after incorporating a high-end art collection in the lobby and common areas. Tenants were willing to pay more for the “feel” that the art gave the space.
How Art Consultants Help Select High-Value Pieces
Access to Exclusive Markets
One of the major benefits of working with an art consultant is access to exclusive pieces and markets. We have relationships with galleries, auction houses, and artists that allow us to negotiate better prices and find pieces that might not be available to the general public.
Ensuring Authenticity and Value
Another key role of an art consultant is to ensure that you’re getting the best value for your money. We authenticate pieces, research market trends, and use our expertise to avoid overpriced or overhyped art. This is especially important in the commercial property world, where art purchases often represent a significant financial investment.
Strategic Art Placement: Creating Maximum Impact
The Power of Placement
Where you place art in your building matters just as much as what art you choose. Art consultants don’t just pick pieces; we also strategically place them to create the biggest impact. This could mean using large, bold pieces in high-traffic areas like lobbies or incorporating smaller, more intimate works in private offices or conference rooms.
Enhancing Your Brand Identity
Art can also be used to reinforce your brand’s identity. If you’re developing a sleek, modern office building, the art should reflect that. Conversely, if your property has a more traditional or luxurious feel, the art should align with that aesthetic. By curating a collection that reflects your brand, you create a cohesive experience for tenants and visitors alike.
In one case, a developer I worked with wanted their new residential building to feel like a high-end, luxury retreat. We curated pieces that used natural materials and calming, neutral tones to create a serene, upscale vibe. The result? Tenants saw the space as a true luxury escape, and the developer was able to attract a higher caliber of clientele.
Avoiding Common Art-Buying Mistakes
Mistake #1: Buying Based on Personal Taste
It’s easy to fall into the trap of buying art based solely on personal preference. But when it comes to commercial properties, the art should be chosen with your tenants in mind. An art consultant will help you select pieces that appeal to a broader audience while still aligning with your property’s aesthetic.
Mistake #2: Going for the Cheapest Option
Another common mistake is focusing solely on cost. While it’s tempting to go for cheaper art options, this can result in a disjointed or unimpressive collection that doesn’t enhance your property’s value. Investing in quality pieces, with the guidance of an art consultant, ensures you’re adding both aesthetic and financial value.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Property with an Art Consultant
Hiring an art consultant isn’t just about decorating your space; it’s about transforming your property into a high-value asset. From selecting investment-worthy pieces to strategically placing them for maximum impact, an art consultant can elevate your collection—and your property’s overall worth.
If you’re ready to enhance your property’s value and attract premium tenants through a well-curated art collection, let’s chat. Reach out today for a consultation, and let’s explore how we can turn your space into a masterpiece.