Artfully Curated

Combining bespoke interior spaces with carefully curated art gives AC/LDN a unique edge. Julia Millen caught up with co-founders, mother and daughter duo, Ann-Charlotte and Paulina Gerdne to find out more

Tell us about Art Concepts London

We’re a mother and daughter art and interior design duo, with a personal passion for thinking outside the box to create unique dream homes for our clients. To create identity, character and give homes a soul and timeless harmony; our signature touch and sphere of excellence is to find suitable and unique art. We understand the importance and complexities of using art and interiors as a way to develop a home, brand or atmosphere. Interior design and art is such a big part of our wellbeing. From one off interior design projects to wide ranging conceptual pieces, we work tirelessly to find suitable solutions for individual client’s needs. We know it can be difficult to define and hunt down that special something for your home or business interior. As such, we work holistically. We take time to understand and connect each element and characteristic of your existing space, and the story you want to tell. We then source art that complements and enriches the overall décor, creating an inspiring living environment.

How do you select artists to work with?

We do this in a variety of ways, such as visiting at Art fairs, using Instagram and through networking and referrals. We also work closely with galleries for sourcing.  We’re always emotionally invested in the art ourselves, but when it comes to finding art for a project, it’s all about what the client is looking for, so we help them navigate the art landscape to find a suitable piece. Sourcing art is quite an intense process, that incorporates concept development, curation, art specification, detail design, procurement, commission and project management It’s important to understand the project’s vision and create the art concept in tandem with the interior design aesthetic. Each project has a unique context, design scheme and brand principles.

What’s at the heart of what you do?

We combine interior design and art that touches the soul. By focusing on the five senses and weaving in touch-point details, we’re able to create a one-of a kind, personalised yet show-stopping look. To create a dream home, interesting office or spectacular hospitality space, we feel it ́s important to mix finishing touches such as antiques in a contemporary home or modern objects in a classical home; and of course we always include incredible wall art that reflects the soul of the home or brand. We work closely with the architect too, focusing on incorporating lighting and unique materials. We’re always at pains to ensure we avoid using clichéd, mainstream approaches.

Are there any art collections that you are particularly proud of?

Three artists spring to mind, firstly; Italian Artist Luca Brandi, “the abstract master”. He has a unique elegant style that’s easy to love and fits into so many projects. From the age of ten, he helped Romolo Prati, in Florence- making religious representations on panels for the sacristies of churches. From 1983, he assisted the abstract painter, Paolo Galletti, and he learned the theories on the decomposition of form through geometric painting and colour. In 1985, he held his first solo exhibition at the Dada Gallery in the province of Florence. Isabelle Scheltjens is another artist we really admire. She’s referred to as “The Queen of Dots”. She uses colourful pieces of glass like the dots of paint used by the pointillists: forming an abstract image up close, yet a dramatic and precise portrait from a distance. It’s the fascinating result of a process that relies on the perceptive ability of the eye and mind of the viewer. Finally, we are humbled to work with the incredible modern minimalist artist, Kim Rose who lives in Los Angeles. Her marbled art pieces have been sold and collected around the world. She’s not only interested in the process of creating, but also in finding the deeper meaning of how art can contribute to the greater good. As she says: “I believe every person can bean artist, and that every artist must find the “why” behind their actions. This is what gives life its purpose and vibrance.”.

How has working with clients changed since you founded the company?

From a 30 year background in developing hospitality concepts which included interior design and art in Sweden, we have continued that journey to become art consultants and interior designers in both London and internationally. These days, we undertake more full scale interior design projects in combination with art which ties both aspects together beautifully. International and high end residential projects are the major part of our commission schedule now. We also work with other interior designers and help them to source art, so ACLDN have two distinct avenues of work. We love helping clients achieve their design dreams and guide them to discover and cultivate their own aesthetic - all the while respecting the existing architecture and style of the property in question. We are there every step of the way, from consulting with architects and contractors and selecting finishes and hardware, to curating beautiful décor and perfecting the installation.  The most important aspect for us when designing interior and outdoor areas – and creating an art concept, is that the end result improves the client’s experience, wellbeing and lifestyle.

Anything exciting in the pipeline that you can share with us?

We’re very excited to be working on a property in Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic, a 2,000 square metre new build, modern colonial holiday home. This is a unique project, fashioning a contemporary Miami style property with elements of Caribbean architecture to create a one-of-a-kind, ocean front, barefoot luxury abode in Playa Serena. The project’s due to be completed in November, so we have a busy few months ahead.

www.artconcepts.london