How to brief an artwork or bespoke wallpaper commission

Describe the room before choosing a style

Send a wide photograph of the room and closer views of the wall or display area. Include existing furniture, flooring and finishes that need to work with the design. Describe how the room is used and whether the work should feel calm, energetic, intimate or prominent.

Photograph the space in its normal lighting where possible. A reference image viewed on a screen can suggest a direction, but colour and scale need to be considered in the actual setting. Explain what you like about each reference: a line quality, palette, rhythm or subject.

Give dimensions and visible constraints

For an artwork, share the available width and height, preferred orientation and whether you already have a frame or display arrangement. Note the viewing distance and any nearby pieces that should relate to it.

For wallpaper, provide wall widths and heights with the units clearly labelled. Mark doors, windows, sockets, joinery and other interruptions on a simple sketch. Ask the installer or supplier to confirm the measurements and allowances required for production before a final order.

Choose between a repeat and a wall composition

A repeating pattern uses a motif that continues across a surface. A mural-style composition is arranged for a particular wall. Either can be subtle or expressive; the difference affects how the artwork is built and where important elements land.

Tell the designer where you expect the focal point to sit and what furniture may cover it. For a repeat, discuss the perceived motif size. For a mural, discuss the full wall composition and how openings or corners interrupt it. Request a scaled layout to review placement with the supplier.

Separate creative scope from production

State whether you are asking for original design, an adaptation, a colour variation or an artwork commission. Describe the intended outcome and ask which files or physical deliverables are included. Agree on review stages, usage rights, budget and timing in the written scope.

For wallpaper, confirm who handles printing and installation. The selected supplier should provide the material options, sample process, panel specifications and file requirements. A design service and the supply or installation of a wall covering should be discussed explicitly.

Review references with a purpose

Choose a small set of references and add a sentence about each. “I like the spacing between the botanical shapes” is useful; a folder of unrelated images without explanation is harder to interpret. Include any colours, themes or elements you want to avoid.

Share your own photographs or materials you have permission to use when they are part of the commission. If a reference belongs to another artist, use it to discuss qualities and direction rather than requesting a copy of that artist’s work.

A commission brief you can copy

Complete these prompts and send them with room photographs and a dimension sketch. MixedByMarwa offers artwork commissions and bespoke wallpaper design through Marwa Elbadawi’s creative practice; the exact scope and production arrangements are discussed for each project.