A Conversation with Clive Lonstein

Clive Lonstein’s design studio is known for its innovative approach to rich minimalist interiors and reductive architecture. Based in Manhattan, the studio draws inspiration from an extensive library of materials and influences from history, travel, art, fashion, and nature. With a Master of Architecture with distinction from Harvard University, Lonstein expertly blends form, color, and materials to create distinctive architectural and interior spaces. As a returning member of our Design + Art Advisory Council, Clive joined us for a rapid-fire round of questions on emerging artists, favorite fair discoveries, and more.

After 15 years, what do you think continues to set Salon Art + Design apart?

Its reinvention. And by that, I mean intellectually. Many of the fairs start to feel very repetitive. Salon Art + Design is a fair that feels fresh each year and there is intellectual intent behind that, that drives the direction. The insertion of new and unexpected international galleries adds to the interest. The show becomes a large global cabinet of curiosities.

Whose work are you especially excited about right now - whether emerging or newly on your radar?

Danielle Mckinney. I love her color pallet and the representation of the spaces alongside the portraiture.

What’s the best thing you’ve ever discovered at a fair that you weren’t looking for?

A contemporary oversized vessel, from France, that was hand-sculpted from ocean-eroded wall fragments of brick and concrete.

What piece in your own collection always starts a conversation?

I have a sculpture by Ranti Bam, a British-Nigerian Sculptor. Her piece is a remarkable juxtaposition of tensions which gives it a strong energy and visual impact drawing conversation around it.

What’s one question you always ask a dealer or gallerist before recommending a piece to a client?

What attracted the dealer or gallerist to the work and why they chose to include it in their collection. This is one of the perks of having the dealers in one place and the ability to have these conversations.

What makes you confident recommending a significant purchase to a client?

The quality and craftsmanship of the piece we are recommending, and the credibility of the gallery representing the piece or artist.

What are you seeing clients become more adventurous about right now?

Color and more graphic elements, as well as the desire to mix pieces from more varied time periods together.

When you walk into Salon, what are you looking for first?

New exhibitors!

What are you seeing now that you think collectors will be talking about five years from now?

A stronger interest in historic art and design where craft is more evident. As the age of AI progresses there will be more interest in incorporating antiques and hand-crafted items alongside contemporary design. The level of craft is exceedingly becoming a mark of sophistication and will continue into future.

What project or collaboration are you most excited about right now?

I’m most excited about the expansion of my existing line of bespoke cast-glass furniture, represented by STUDIOTWENTYSEVEN, with the addition of lighting, benches, and coffee tables. It feels like a natural evolution of the collection—an opportunity to explore cast glass across new forms.