A Conversation with Oliver Furth

A fourth-generation Los-Angeles native, Interior Designer Oliver M. Furth is a fixture in his city’s design and cultural communities. Before opening his eponymous studio in 2005, Furth trained under some of the most celebrated firms in the business. A fourth-generation Los-Angeles native, Interior Designer Oliver M. Furth is a fixture in his city’s design and cultural communities. Before opening his eponymous studio in 2005, Furth trained under some of the most celebrated firms in the business. As a new member of our Design + Art Advisory Council, Oliver joined us for a rapid-fire round of questions on collecting myths he'd like to debunk, inspirational design eras and movements, and more.

Art + Design Favorites 

If you could add one museum piece to your personal collection, what would it be?

There are so many museums (and pieces) that bring me joy and inspiration. But it would be too selfish to bring home with me, and take away from public consumption. That said, in my fantasy, I wouldn’t mind living with a Klimt landscape. I thoroughly enjoyed the show last year at Neue Gallerie.

Which design era or movement most inspires you right now?

I’m looking with new eyes at periods on either end of the 20th Century. I’m into Art Nouveau and Wiener Werkstatte, and many Hoffmann-ish motifs have found their way into recent projects. Also, pieces made at the turn of the millennium are feeling fresh once again—particularly interiors and works by Starck, Newson, Arad and Liaigre.

What’s your favorite space you’ve ever visited for its design or art alone?

Last summer, I trekked to Naples to visit Caravaggio’s painting Seven Works of Mercy; it did not disappoint! The chiaroscuro light was hauntingly beautiful and I’m still thinking about those rich and nuanced colors.

Advice

What’s a lesson you learned the hard way in collecting or curating?

Buying things does not a collector make. I believe to be a true collector, one needs rigor and discipline. That said, this is not the route for everyone. Most people should buy what sparks curiosity and joy for them, and simply enjoy living with beautiful, interesting artworks and objects.

What’s one myth about art or design collecting you’d like to debunk?

I encourage my clients and friends to acquire pieces that they might not yet understand. Pieces that bring up curiosity and questioning, not necessarily what they’ve seen all over the place. These more complex, less common works will lead to long term fulfillment opposed to fast-food enjoyment.

Plugs

What’s a project from the past year that pushed you creatively?

I rarely take the easy route—often to the chagrin of my team. We approach every project individually and try to challenge ourselves each time—whether that means a layered narrative vision or working with innovative artists and artisans who might not walk the straight line. This keeps projects fresh and interesting for me, and it means a more unique and personal home for our clients. Most importantly, we push the design dialogue forward with every project.

Which upcoming exhibition is on your must-see list?

I’m excited to see the new building at LACMA, when it opens at the beginning of 2026. The museum is close to my heart, and I’ve been involved for 15 years, working closely with curators in the Decorative Arts and Design department. Looking forward to seeing the collection (with new pieces and old favorites) re-installed in this new building.