Many industries are changing to become more inclusive. The design world is no exception. I’m excited to share my journey of discovering incredible talent making waves right now.
This article introduces you to 10 amazing creatives. Their work spans from bold maximalism to sophisticated minimalism. Each brings unique cultural backgrounds into their projects.
I’ve followed these professionals for years. They bring fresh perspectives to homes and spaces. You’ll find inspiration across modern, traditional, and eclectic styles.
These visionaries aren’t just creating beautiful rooms. They are actively shaping the future of the entire industry. Supporting them goes beyond social media follows.
Get ready to discover talents working with luxury textiles and budget-friendly transformations. This list includes creators from New York to California and beyond.
Key Takeaways
- The design industry is becoming more inclusive and diverse
- These professionals bring unique cultural perspectives to their work
- Their styles range from maximalist to minimalist approaches
- They work with various budgets from luxury to affordable options
- Geographic diversity adds richness to their creative visions
- Supporting these talents helps shape the future of design
- You’ll find inspiration across multiple design aesthetics
Why I’m Highlighting These Amazing Black Interior Designers
The creative landscape deserves more diverse voices. I’m passionate about showcasing talent that transforms how we see our living environments.
Following these visionaries on social media is just the beginning. True support means hiring them for your next renovation. It means buying their products and sharing their stories with friends.
I’ve discovered that embracing different perspectives dramatically expands my creative vision. Each professional brings cultural richness that elevates the entire field.
The design world has historically lacked representation. I want to help change that narrative. These creators deserve recognition for their groundbreaking work.
Malene Barnett’s Black Artists + Designers Guild is an excellent resource. It helps discover even more incredible talent across various disciplines.
Active support creates more inclusive spaces where everyone feels represented. This goes beyond social media engagement to meaningful career advancement.
I hope this spotlight inspires greater diversity throughout the industry. These professionals are shaping the future of how we live and work.
1. Quintece Hill-Mattauszek: Studio Q’s Bright and Bold Vision
When I first discovered Quintece Hill-Mattauszek’s work, I was drawn to her ability to balance bold aesthetics with personal warmth. As the founder of Washington DC-based Studio Q, she creates bright, luxurious homes that reflect her distinctive vision.
Her projects feature vibrant color palettes that feel sophisticated rather than overwhelming. She has a particular talent for using bold colors in ways that enhance rather than dominate a room. Each space feels uniquely tailored to her clients’ personalities.
What I love about Quintece’s approach is how she combines high-end luxury with comfortable, livable spaces. Her work demonstrates how dramatic design choices can create environments that are both welcoming and visually striking.
Her Instagram presence feels like getting advice from a close friend who genuinely cares about your space. She shares glimpses of her personal life and family alongside her professional projects. This authentic connection makes her design guidance feel accessible and relatable.
Studio Q’s projects often feature custom elements and personal touches that make each space truly special. Quintece incorporates art and personal collections to tell her clients’ stories through design. Her approach shows how spaces can be both beautiful and functional for everyday living.
The light in her designed rooms always feels intentional and enhancing. Her work proves that bold vision and personal warmth can coexist beautifully in residential design.
2. Carmeon Hamilton: Nubi Interiors’ Transformative Approach
What makes Carmeon Hamilton’s work so compelling is her transparent approach to the entire design process. As a Memphis-based creator behind Nubi Interiors, she shares both successes and challenges with refreshing honesty.
I admire how she documents her projects from concept to completion. Her Instagram account serves as a masterclass in creating beautiful, functional spaces that work for real life.
Her collaboration with Shavonda Gardner on the 2019 Real Simple Home was particularly inspiring to watch. They later teamed up again for Hamilton’s bedroom makeover during the One Room Challenge.
This project showcased her incredible ability to transform spaces on a tight timeline. She detailed every step, from initial planning to final styling decisions.
Carmeon isn’t just a talented professional – she’s also an educator who demystifies the design process. Her content helps people understand what goes into creating amazing rooms.
Her work often features smart storage solutions that make spaces more livable. She has a particular talent for mixing patterns and textures in cohesive ways.
I appreciate her balanced discussion of both creative and business aspects. This holistic view helps aspiring creators understand the industry better.
Her design philosophy focuses on spaces that are both beautiful and practical. She proves that stunning interiors can serve everyday needs without sacrificing style.
Following her journey has taught me that great design involves both vision and vulnerability. Carmeon’s transformative approach continues to inspire my own creative process.
3. Sheila Bridges: Harlem Toile and Pattern Mastery
The moment I saw Harlem Toile, I understood how patterns could tell powerful stories. Sheila Bridges reimagined French toile de Jouy with African American cultural narratives. Her work transforms traditional decoration into meaningful art.
This esteemed creator based in New York City brings incredible depth to spaces. Her fabulous rooms showcase rich textures and custom patterns. Each project feels both sophisticated and culturally significant.
I’m particularly inspired by her innovative approach to wallpaper and textiles. Harlem Toile replaces pastoral scenes with satirical vignettes. It challenges stereotypes while celebrating cultural heritage.
Her designs have earned features in Architectural Digest and other prestigious publications. This recognition highlights her exceptional contribution to the field. Sheila’s work demonstrates how traditional elements can embrace contemporary perspectives.
Her pattern scaling talent ensures designs work in various applications. From statement walls to subtle accents, everything feels perfectly proportioned. This technical skill complements her creative vision beautifully.
What makes her approach special is the storytelling aspect. Patterns become vehicles for cultural expression rather than mere decoration. This philosophy has influenced broader trends throughout the industry.
She combines sophisticated color palettes with intricate pattern work. The results feel both timeless and fresh. Her style continues to inspire my own appreciation for meaningful design.
Following her journey shows how creativity can drive social commentary. Sheila Bridges proves that beautiful spaces can also tell important stories. Her work remains a constant source of inspiration.
4. Amber Guyton: Blessed Little Bungalow’s Maximalist Magic
Amber Guyton’s vibrant approach to design completely changed my perspective on budget-friendly transformations. As the creative force behind Blessed Little Bungalow, she proves that limited funds shouldn’t limit your style.
Her philosophy resonates deeply with me. You don’t need endless money to create a home you adore. It’s about creativity and smart choices.
I was particularly impressed by her kitchen makeover using Clare’s Current Mood paint. She transformed a basic builder-grade space into something spectacular. The power of color truly shines in her work.
Amber suggests specific shades that bring rooms to life. Pop offers a punchy peach tone. Deep Dive provides a bold blue-green effect. Night Groove delivers a lush aubergine richness.
Her content blends inspiration with practical DIY tips. She makes good design feel accessible to everyone. I appreciate how she shares real transformations readers can actually achieve.
Patterned wallpaper and bold combinations create joyful, energetic spaces. Her maximalist approach feels sophisticated rather than cluttered. Every choice appears intentional and well-considered.
She possesses a special talent for mixing patterns cohesively. Nothing feels chaotic or overwhelming. Her spaces reflect the people living there through personal expression.
Following Amber’s journey has taught me that budget constraints can spark incredible creativity. Her work continues to inspire my own approach to making spaces feel special.
5. Nina Cooke John: Architectural Storytelling in NYC
Nina Cooke John’s approach to design feels like discovering a new language for spaces. Her work connects architectural principles with human stories in ways I find deeply moving.
As both an architect and creative professional, she brings unique perspective to New York City projects. Her firm Studio Cooke John transforms apartments into thoughtful environments. Each space tells a compelling story through careful detailing.
I’m amazed by how she works across different scales. From intimate home renovations to grand public installations, everything feels connected. Her Harriet Tubman monument shows how design honors cultural heritage.
Her residential work demonstrates sophisticated understanding of how people live. She balances aesthetic beauty with practical functionality perfectly. Every choice enhances daily living experiences.
As a professor at Parsons School of Design, she shapes future creators. This educational role complements her professional practice beautifully. She brings academic insight to real-world projects.
Her attention to light and spatial relationships creates magical environments. Rooms feel both contemporary and timeless through her careful approach. This balance is rare and inspiring.
Here’s how her projects compare across different scales:
| Project Type | Key Features | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Renovations | Custom details, functional layouts | Transforms daily living experiences |
| Public Art Installations | Cultural storytelling, community engagement | Creates meaningful public spaces |
| Educational Projects | Innovative materials, sustainable approaches | Advances design education |
Her work has earned features in Architectural Digest and other prestigious publications. This recognition highlights her exceptional contribution to the field. She proves that spaces can be both beautiful and meaningful.
Following her journey shows how design bridges personal and public expression. Her approach continues to inspire my own creative vision. Nina Cooke John represents the best of architectural storytelling.
6. Rayman Boozer: Apartment 48’s Color Guru Expertise
Rayman Boozer’s work feels like stepping into a vibrant celebration of life. His colorful approach to creating beautiful spaces immediately caught my attention. As principal designer at his New York firm Apartment 48, he transforms ordinary rooms into extraordinary experiences.
Industry experts rightly call him the “color guru” for his masterful palette selections. I admire how he combines bold hues with sophisticated patterns. His fearless approach to vibrant combinations creates dynamic, energetic environments.
His projects feature eye-catching textiles and wow-worthy wallpapers. Each selection feels intentional and perfectly balanced. Rayman demonstrates how color can define spaces and express personality beautifully.
He shares behind-the-scenes glimpses of his creative process on social media. Followers get virtual trips to Paris for design inspiration. These posts provide valuable insights into industry trends from an insider’s perspective.
I appreciate how he balances bold choices with thoughtful design principles. His work shows that colorful style can be both playful and sophisticated. Every project demonstrates skillful execution and cohesive vision.
Rayman possesses a special talent for selecting paint colors. They work harmoniously with patterns and textures throughout each space. His approach proves that color should be integral to the design process.
Following his journey has taught me that vibrant design requires both courage and expertise. His work continues to inspire my own appreciation for bold, beautiful interiors.
7. Keyanna Bowen: Rental Redo’s Transformative Vision
Discovering Keyanna Bowen’s multifaceted approach felt like finding a masterclass in creative versatility. Her ability to wear multiple hats as a designer, photographer, and content creator immediately impressed me.
As host of Magnolia Network’s Rental Redo, she brings transformative vision to temporary living situations. I admire how she makes rental spaces feel both personalized and permanent despite limitations.
Her work on the 2021 Real Simple Home showcased exceptional talent. She demonstrated how to create beautiful, functional spaces that work for real life. Every project reflects thoughtful intention and creative problem-solving.
Keyanna’s Instagram feed serves as a constant source of inspiration. It features both her own design work and photography of stunning interiors. This dual perspective enriches her content and provides valuable insights.
She shares practical solutions for common rental challenges like limited painting options. Her approach proves that good design isn’t about budget but creativity. Temporary solutions can have lasting impact on how we experience our spaces.
I appreciate how her multifaceted career shows different disciplines enhancing each other. Photography skills inform her design compositions. Design experience shapes her photographic perspective.
Her content blends aesthetic inspiration with actionable advice. Followers learn both what looks good and how to achieve it. This educational aspect makes her work particularly valuable.
Keyanna demonstrates that rental limitations can spark incredible creativity. Her work continues to inspire my own approach to making any space feel like home.
8. Linda Hayslett: LH.Designs’ Fashion-Forward Interiors
Linda Hayslett’s career journey fascinates me. Her background at VH1, W, and InStyle magazines shapes her unique approach. She brings fashion industry insights into residential spaces.
Her Los Angeles firm LH.Designs creates stunning environments. I admire how she translates runway trends into livable rooms. This crossover between industries feels fresh and exciting.
Her 2023 Real Simple Home roof deck transformation impressed me. She arranged seating to create distinct functional zones. The space accommodated eating, lounging, and conversation areas beautifully.
House Beautiful recognized her as a 2020 Next Wave designer. This honor highlights her growing influence in the field. Her emerging talent deserves this prestigious acknowledgment.
Linda considers movement through rooms like fashion designers consider garment flow. This perspective creates harmonious layouts. Everything feels intentional and well-proportioned.
Her furniture selections combine statement pieces with comfort. Each item serves both aesthetic and practical purposes. This balance makes her spaces truly livable.
Here’s how her fashion background influences her design approach:
| Fashion Element | Interior Application | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Seasonal Trends | Timeless style adaptations | Contemporary yet classic spaces |
| Texture Mixing | Layered fabric selections | Rich, tactile environments |
| Silhouette Awareness | Furniture proportioning | Perfectly scaled rooms |
| Color Storytelling | Cohesive palette development | Mood-enhancing spaces |
I appreciate how her career path shows diverse experience enhances creativity. Her fashion background brings unexpected richness to her projects. This unique perspective sets her apart.
Following Linda’s work teaches me about cross-industry inspiration. Her designs show how personal style translates beautifully into home environments. She continues to influence my own creative thinking.
9. David Quarles: The Professor of Design Education
David Quarles brings a fresh educational spin to the creative world. His Memphis-based approach combines professional expertise with engaging teaching methods. I find his content both informative and incredibly enjoyable to follow.
His “Design School With Professor Quarles” series makes learning fun. He covers everything from winter plant care to perfect art placement. Clever cocktail recipes and lifestyle tips add wonderful variety.
I appreciate how he simplifies complex design principles. His explanations feel like chatting with a knowledgeable friend. The educational content remains substantive while being thoroughly entertaining.
His 2023 Real Simple Home primary bedroom project showcased exceptional talent. The dramatic transformation demonstrated his sophisticated aesthetic sensibility. This project highlighted his ability to create stunning, personalized spaces.
Here’s what makes his approach so effective:
- Makes design knowledge accessible to everyone
- Combines practical tips with lifestyle content
- Maintains professional expertise while being relatable
- Shows how good design improves daily living
- Creates content that’s both educational and enjoyable
David proves that learning about beautiful spaces can enhance your entire life. His work goes beyond aesthetics to focus on how we actually live. This holistic approach continues to inspire my own design journey.
Following his content feels like attending the best design class. He makes the creative process feel approachable and exciting. David Quarles truly embodies the professor of design education.
10. Shavonda Gardner: SG Style’s Pattern and Texture Mastery
Shavonda Gardner’s Instagram feed feels like entering a vibrant gallery of pattern and texture possibilities. Her eye-catching combinations immediately caught my attention and changed how I view material selections.
As founder of SG Style, she demonstrates incredible skill with fabrics and surfaces. I admire how she transforms ordinary rooms through thoughtful pattern mixing.
Her collaboration with Carmeon Hamilton on the 2019 Real Simple Home office space was particularly inspiring. They created a stunning work environment that balanced bold choices with functional needs.
Shavonda possesses a special talent for combining different patterns cohesively. Nothing feels chaotic or overwhelming in her spaces. Each selection contributes to a harmonious overall effect.
I appreciate how she shares both professional projects and personal design choices. This balance makes her content feel authentic and relatable. Followers get to see real applications of her principles.
Her work demonstrates how pattern and texture add depth to simple spaces. Even basic rooms become extraordinary through her material selections. This approach proves that transformation doesn’t always require structural changes.
Here’s how her pattern mixing techniques create different effects:
| Mixing Method | Typical Application | Visual Result |
|---|---|---|
| Scale Variation | Large and small patterns together | Creates dynamic visual interest |
| Color Coordination | Shared color palette across patterns | Ensures cohesive look |
| Texture Layering | Combining smooth and textured materials | Adds depth and dimension |
| Pattern Style Mixing | Geometric with organic patterns | Creates balanced contrast |
Shavonda proves that bold choices can create comfortable, livable spaces. Her rooms feel both dramatic and welcoming simultaneously. This balance is rare and inspiring to witness.
Her approach emphasizes personal expression through material choices. Every project reflects the client’s personality through pattern and texture selections. This personalized touch makes each space truly unique.
Following her journey has taught me that pattern mixing is a learnable skill. With practice and confidence, anyone can develop this artistic ability. Shavonda makes the process feel accessible and achievable.
Her collaborations show how creative professionals can achieve remarkable results together. The combined vision often exceeds what individuals might create alone. This cooperative spirit inspires my own creative process.
Beyond the List: More Talented Black Interior Designers to Discover
My exploration of creative talent revealed so many incredible professionals beyond these ten. The design world is filled with amazing visionaries worth following.
I discovered that this list only scratches the surface of available talent. So many gifted creators bring fresh perspectives to beautiful spaces.
Malene Barnett’s Black Artists + Designers Guild became my go-to resource. This collective showcases phenomenal talent across various disciplines. It helps discover even more amazing professionals.
The Black Interior Designers Network specifically supports creators of color. Their mission aligns perfectly with inclusive industry growth. Following them exposes you to wonderful new voices.
International influences greatly enrich the design landscape. Yinka Ilori from London brings vibrant cultural perspectives. Tosin Oshinowo from Nigeria offers unique global insights.
Specialized experts bring focused excellence to their work. Eva Sonaike’s textile designs add incredible texture. Marie Burgos incorporates feng shui principles beautifully.
Here are more phenomenal professionals I admire:
| Designer | Specialty | Notable Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Bradley Bowers | Luxury Residential | Sophisticated color palettes |
| Christopher Charles | Modern Elegance | Clean lines with warmth |
| Bridgid Coulter | Artful Spaces | Gallery-like environments |
| Shari Francis (Dadapt) | Adaptive Reuse | Sustainable transformations |
| Marissa Whitley Tago | Holistic Design | Wellness-focused spaces |
| Tiffanni Reidy | Color Theory | Psychological impact of hues |
| Everick Brown Design | Custom Furniture | Bespoke piece creation |
Nikki Chu’s vibrant approach brings joy to every project. Rodney Lawrence combines traditional and contemporary elements. Doreen Chambers focuses on functional beauty.
Each professional offers something uniquely valuable. Their collective work pushes the entire industry forward. I gain fresh inspiration from their diverse approaches.
Following these additional voices expanded my creative vision. They demonstrate countless possibilities within the field. The community benefits enormously from their contributions.
I encourage exploring beyond this already extensive list. New talent emerges constantly, bringing innovation and fresh perspectives. The future of design looks brilliantly diverse and exciting.
How These Designers Are Changing the Industry
I’ve witnessed remarkable shifts happening across creative fields lately. The design world is embracing new voices in exciting ways. These professionals are leading this positive change through their innovative approach.
Their fresh perspectives challenge old ideas about what makes great spaces. They bring cultural richness that expands our understanding of beauty. Each project tells unique stories through thoughtful material choices.
Major publications now regularly feature their groundbreaking work. Architectural Digest and House Beautiful showcase their exceptional talent. This recognition marks important progress toward greater inclusion.
Their success proves diversity drives creativity and innovation. Clients benefit from expanded possibilities and fresh solutions. The entire field becomes more interesting through their contributions.
These visionaries mentor emerging talent through teaching and example. They build businesses that demonstrate commercial viability. Their leadership shapes a more welcoming environment for everyone.
Here’s how their influence transforms various aspects of the field:
| Aspect of Industry | Traditional Approach | New Perspective |
|---|---|---|
| Design Education | Limited perspectives | Diverse teaching methods |
| Client Expectations | Conventional preferences | Expanded style possibilities |
| Business Models | Established practices | Innovative brand building |
| Creative Process | Standard solutions | Customized approaches |
| Industry Recognition | Limited representation | Broadened visibility |
Their work considers different lifestyles and practical needs. Spaces become more functional and personally meaningful. This inclusive thinking benefits all who experience their creations.
I’m inspired by how they redefine excellence in our field. Their journey shows what’s possible when we embrace diverse voices. The future looks bright thanks to their ongoing contributions.
Where to Find and Support Black Design Creatives
Moving beyond the double-tap on social media opens up powerful ways to champion the talented individuals shaping our living environments. I’ve learned that real support means taking concrete actions that help these visionaries thrive in their careers.
Simply following amazing creators is just the first step. True appreciation requires active engagement that directly impacts their professional growth. This approach makes a real difference in building sustainable careers.
I recommend hiring these professionals for your next project. Many offer full-service options or more affordable e-design packages. This direct collaboration supports their work while transforming your space.
Purchasing from their product lines provides another excellent support method. Many creatives develop exclusive collections and collaborations. These purchases directly fund their artistic endeavors.
Here are the most effective ways to provide meaningful support:
| Support Method | Specific Actions | Impact on Creatives |
|---|---|---|
| Professional Hiring | Book full-service or e-design packages | Provides steady income and portfolio growth |
| Product Purchases | Buy from their collections and collaborations | Direct financial support for their business |
| Community Amplification | Share their work and attend their events | Expands their reach and client base |
| Organizational Support | Follow and promote industry groups and networks | Strengthens the entire creative community |
| Custom Commissions | Request bespoke pieces or consultations | Supports artistic freedom and innovation |
Following organizations like the Black Artists + Designers Guild amplifies many voices simultaneously. These groups showcase incredible talent across various disciplines. They provide valuable resources for discovering new creators.
Sharing their projects with your network helps expand their influence. Word-of-mouth recommendations often lead to new opportunities. This organic support can significantly impact their career trajectory.
Sustainable support means ongoing engagement rather than temporary interest. I believe in supporting professionals throughout their career stages. This consistent backing helps them build lasting legacies in the field.
Many offer digital products and affordable consultations. These options make their expertise accessible to various budgets. Everyone can find ways to meaningfully contribute to their success.
Attending events where these visionaries speak shows valuable support. These appearances often lead to new collaborations and projects. Your presence demonstrates appreciation for their contributions to the industry.
Bringing Their Design Inspiration Into Your Home
Your home can reflect professional design principles without requiring expert skills. I found wonderful ways to incorporate inspiration from these talented creators into my own space.
Many share specific paint colors that work beautifully in various settings. Amber Guyton’s recommendations like Current Mood, Pop, Deep Dive, and Night Groove offer fantastic starting points.
I suggest studying how these artists use pattern and texture. You can incorporate similar principles through throw pillows, area rugs, or accent walls. Small changes create big visual impact.
Pay attention to furniture arrangement techniques they employ. Many create functional zones within rooms for different activities. This approach maximizes both style and practicality.
Their styling tips for shelves and surfaces are easily adaptable. I learned to group items in odd numbers and vary heights. These simple tricks make displays more dynamic.
Lighting techniques dramatically affect room atmosphere. Notice how professionals use layers of light from different sources. This creates mood and highlights important features.
I recommend drawing inspiration from color combinations rather than copying exact schemes. Adapt palettes to suit your personal preferences and existing furnishings.
Many share DIY projects and budget-friendly solutions perfect for home adaptation. These ideas prove good design doesn’t require massive investment.
Personalization through art and meaningful objects makes spaces uniquely yours. I learned to display collections in thoughtful arrangements that tell my story.
Remember that inspiration should adapt to your lifestyle rather than replicate exactly. Your home should reflect how you actually live and what brings you joy.
Start with one room and implement changes gradually. The kitchen often benefits from color updates and better organization. Small transformations build confidence for larger projects.
These approaches helped me create spaces that feel both professionally inspired and personally authentic. The results transformed how I experience my home every day.
Conclusion: My Continued Journey Following These Amazing Black Interior Designers
My exploration of these creative visionaries has transformed how I see living environments. Each professional brings unique cultural perspectives that enrich the entire field.
I remain committed to supporting their evolving careers. The design industry benefits enormously from diverse voices and innovative approaches.
These artists have expanded my understanding of what beautiful spaces can achieve. Their work blends aesthetic excellence with meaningful personal expression.
I’m excited to continue discovering new talent and sharing their remarkable projects. This journey of learning and inspiration never truly ends.
Their influence continues to shape how we experience our homes and workspaces. I’m grateful for the opportunity to celebrate their important contributions.
