Nestled in Omaha, Nebraska, Studio Eckström is a bespoke interior design atelier famed for its cultured clientele. We had the pleasure of interviewing Mark Eckstrom, the creative mind behind this unique studio, to explore their passion for auctions and their distinctive design approach.
The Passion Behind Studio Eckström
Studio Eckström caters to a sophisticated and well-traveled clientele, sourcing the best treasures from auctions to create spaces filled with decorative arts and furniture reflecting their clients’ worldly aesthetic. The team’s passion for auctions lies in the thrill of discovering unique pieces that tell a story and add character to a space.
Mark’s studio finds immense value in connecting individuals with similar interests and aesthetics. It has allowed the studio to connect with like-minded individuals, showcase their work, and gain insights into their clients’ preferences, streamlining the onboarding and targeting process.
Inspirations and Influences
Inspiration for Studio Eckström can strike anywhere, so the team frequently visits museums, antique stores, vintage art books, and showrooms and even scrolls through Instagram and auction catalogs. Mark’s eclectic style blends various movements, such as Wiener Werkstätte with Charles Rennie Mackintosh and a touch of Japonisme. This unique combination results from deep dives into different styles during new design projects.
When asked to describe their interior style in three words, the team chose Cerebral, Diverse, and Whimsical. These words encapsulate Mark’s design approach, blending intellect, diversity, and a touch of playfulness.
Favorite Auction Find
One of the studio’s favorite auction finds is a vintage John Dickinson model #107 draped end table discovered on LiveAuctioneers. The piece’s utilitarian materiality—galvanized steel mimicking draped fabric—immediately captivated them. Its provenance and the studio’s longstanding admiration for Dickinson’s work added to its allure.
This unique table, adorned with a draped plaster urn, now resides in their drawing room. Combining these forms creates a theatrical and whimsical ambiance, making the space inviting and less severe. It has become a frequent conversation piece during gatherings in Mark’s home.
John Dickinson model #107 draped end table discovered on LiveAuctioneers
The Auction Experience
Participating in online auctions offers Studio Eckström the thrill of the hunt. Platforms like LiveAuctioneers connect them to a global network of auction houses, allowing them to browse sales and set keyword alerts for unique items in one digital space.
The studio actively seeks items like rugs (Chobi, Peshawar, Oushak, Aubusson), vessels, vases, trays, and pieces by makers such as Pace, Guillerme et Chambron, Karl Springer, Phillip, and Kelvin Laverne. These diverse interests reflect their commitment to sourcing the most unique and fitting items for their projects.
Winning Bid Strategies
Studio Eckström approaches bidding with careful research and a set bid limit. Comparing prices for similar items and understanding the market value helps them make informed decisions.
Before bidding, the team requests detailed condition reports and provenance information. They also compare past hammer and current dealer prices to ensure they make a sound investment. One important lesson learned is to keep a level head during bidding.
Overbidding due to a “must-win” mentality can lead to regret. The studio emphasizes the importance of knowing when to walk away, trusting that a better opportunity will arise.
Style Recommendations
The overarching theme of Studio Eckström’s collection is eclecticism, combining elements from various periods and styles. Their collection includes Directoire, Empire, Neoclassical pieces, and modern makers like Paul Evans, Vladimir Kagan, and John Dickinson.
The studio has a fondness for hard-edge abstract paintings and places importance on queer artists and makers. Additionally, living Indigenous artists and artisans play a significant role, reflecting the background of one of the founders, Mikal, who holds a Ph.D. in Indigenous history.
Diversity is key in every collection curated by Studio Eckström. They aim to include varied cultural backgrounds, artists’ identities, genres, periods, and mediums. This approach ensures that every room tells a unique story and stimulates conversation.
Advice for Treasure Hunters
For those new to auction buying, the studio emphasizes the importance of thorough research. Understanding the market and the items helps in making informed decisions.
Studio Eckström advises focusing on personal love for an item rather than its investment potential. They believe buying what you love ensures lasting appreciation and value, making every piece a cherished part of the home.
Studio Eckström’s approach to interior design and auctions is about blending diverse influences, conducting thorough research, and curating spaces that tell unique stories. Their experiences and insights provide valuable lessons for anyone interested in the art of auction buying and interior design.
