Design diversity offers unique perspectives that only drive the industry forward, making it more innovative, progressive, creative and bold. However, only 2.3% of interior designers are black, according to job search company Zippia. Organizations like the Black Interior Designers Network have done all they can to amplify the voices of marginalized designers and help elevate black designers in the media, books, magazines, blogs and on television, and we are grateful. Personally, as an interior designer and passionate writer, I have met many designers online and have been inspired by their unique perspectives ever since. Here are 17 lessons we learned from some of our favorite black interior designers, none of whom conform to the norm but dare to break each of their designs.
Lesson one: trust your instincts
Sometimes we like bold ideas but fear the investment required to try our luck. What I have found and learned from many of these designers is that the boldest ideas are often the best, so trust them. Your instinct! At home, my favorite design is something I saw on social media or something that was trending that I didn't follow, but it really gave me a creative spark.
Lesson 2: Mistakes are beautiful and worthwhile
I love this lesson from Justina Blakeney, creator of Jungalow: Perfection Above All. Imperfections in art, meaning interior design, make it beautiful and unique.
Lesson 3: Layering on what you love can lead to lucky opportunities
"Sometimes pallets are created from scratch. Bed, then bedside tables, then pillows, and that's it. Friend @jlagarrigue appears above the bed to tie it all together. I hope there is a formula for a successful interior. Maybe ," says designer Danny The cold we love.
Lesson 4: People are the key to good design
Design is about people, right? It's about how you use the space and how you and your loved ones will feel there. What kind of impression do you want to create with your design?
“Some of our customers have young families and need maximum storage and space for everyone. Other clients are in their homes forever and want to focus on a place with vintage design.” My first step in design is to find out what the client needs and their home life before I hire them. They came up with a design that makes them better," says April Gandy , founder and lead designer of Alluring Designs Chicago.
Love this idea from famous designer Bridget Romanek, who took sofas in the living room around the dining table - we were invited to this dinner and it is so cozy and chic!
Lesson 5: Corners create opportunities
Smaller spaces can be more fun to design because you can make an impact with a smaller budget and less time. Let it shine with wallpaper, bright art, antique furniture or something bespoke.
Lesson 6: Warm + comfortable, but also comfortable
Part warm and welcoming serves the people who live in the space, and part funk serves your creative spirit.
Lesson 7: Use color strategically for greater impact
The neutral trend is beautiful, but color surprises and delights. Color is everything in these designs.
Lesson 8: Be wild but cool
A big part of design is balance. Sure, you can bring in tropical wallpaper with large tiles and mix it with gold accents and colorful art, but balancing color, tone, and texture for the space is key so you don't overdo it.
Lesson 9: Elegance + Drama = Intrigue
That lamp, the tile, the wall covering, oh my!
Lesson 10: Play!
If there's one lesson you can take from @forbesmasters design, it's to have fun with it. When you feel good, you also carry that energy into the space.
Lesson 11: Enhancing architectural details with paint
I love how HGTV designer Tiffany Brooks uses paint to accentuate the pattern here.
Lesson 12: Metallics accentuate neutral colors
They really do in this beautiful room designed by Kolding.
Lesson 13: You can never have too much art
Art complements a space and adds a little soul: share the art you love and your space will feel like you.
Lesson 14: Get a clear overview
Blakeney's branding advice can be applied to any design; You need consistency and clear direction for a cohesive look.
Lesson 15: Every moment is an opportunity to show up
Bishops can also create a moment.
Lesson 16: Heritage details create a sense of place
"I found that I was more successful organizing the space before I started than figuring it all out when I saw it put together in person," says Gandy. "I also enjoy meeting and working with new local small businesses, especially minority-owned businesses. It gives me a sense of pride to be a part of their success," which brings us to the final lesson #17: Small shopping. Finding unique items that you won't find in abundance will inspire you to create a unique and personal space.
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Photo by Spacejoy.
