From Weekend Hobby to Million-Dollar Business: The Success Story of Abstract House

Omar Obaid: From Weekend Painter to Multimillion-Dollar Art Business Owner

Omar Obaid discovered his passion for painting and drawing at a young age, finding solace in creating abstract art on canvas as a way to wind down from his corporate job. With the encouragement of his wife, Summer, he began selling his artwork and eventually transitioned his side hustle into a full-time e-commerce art business.

A Leap of Faith

After working in corporate roles at The New York Times and Odeon, Omar and Summer made the bold decision to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams with the launch of Abstract House in 2016. What started as a side project quickly flourished into a thriving business, with the company expecting to reach approximately £2 million ($2.52 million) in revenue in the current year.

Growth and Expansion

Abstract House, which currently employs 10 staff members, has experienced significant growth over the years. The company recently relocated to a spacious showroom, office, and production space in west London to accommodate its expanding operations. In addition to Omar's original artwork, the business offers printing and framing services for artists, further diversifying its offerings in the art market.

Challenges and Resilience

Despite their success, Abstract House has faced challenges, including rising costs of raw materials, energy, and shipping. Furthermore, the issue of art being replicated posed a significant obstacle for the business. However, through proactive measures, they successfully addressed the problem and continued to focus on providing quality and affordable art to their customers.

Global Ambitions

Looking ahead, Omar and Summer aim to expand their business by attracting more trade clients and venturing into international markets. Their creative endeavors have already garnered attention, with Omar creating large artworks for prominent venues such as the Caesars Forum in Las Vegas and the South Quay Plaza in London's Canary Wharf.

A Testimony of Success

With the majority of sales occurring online, the couple emphasizes the importance of maintaining a physical showroom to engage with clients and showcase their genuine dedication to their craft. Despite the challenges and uncertainties of entrepreneurship, Omar and Summer's venture has not only surpassed their previous corporate earnings but also granted them the flexibility to prioritize family and personal commitments.

Passion, Persistence, and Prosperity

As they reflect on their journey, Omar and Summer attribute their success to their genuine passion for art and a steadfast commitment to their business. Their story serves as a testament to the rewards of pursuing one's true calling, with a blend of dedication and a touch of serendipity leading them to achieve remarkable milestones in the art industry.