Interior design isn’t just about furniture, lighting, or layouts; rather, it’s about telling a story. This year, in particular, some of the most compelling stories in the design world are being told by Black interior designers. Furthermore, whether you’re redecorating your space or simply in love with gorgeous aesthetics, these talented creatives deserve a spot on your radar.
The Importance of Diversity in Interior Design
Breaking Boundaries in the Design World
Representation Matters in Design Spaces
For a long time, interior design was dominated by a narrow set of voices. However, the tide is now turning as Black designers break through with bold, beautiful, and culturally rich creations that are redefining what great design looks like.
Why Highlight Black Interior Designers?
Black Interior Designers: Celebrating Creativity and Culture
Black designers bring their own unique perspectives to the table—mixing heritage, history, and modern flair in ways that captivate the eye and the soul.
Promoting Equity and Visibility in the Industry
Importantly, highlighting Black interior designers is more than just a trend—it’s a vital step toward leveling the playing field in an industry that has been far too exclusive for far too long.
1. Sheila Bridges
Signature Style and Iconic Works
Sheila Bridges is often called the “Queen of Interior Design,” and for good reason. Her style blends classic architecture with eclectic flair, and she’s known for layering cultural elements in a way that feels effortless and elegant.
Notable Projects and Media Recognition
She’s designed spaces for everyone from Bill Clinton to Harlem jazz legends, and her work has been featured in Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, and even on-air with Oprah.
Harlem Toile de Jouy – A Cultural Statement
Her iconic wallpaper print, Harlem Toile de Jouy, playfully reinterprets traditional French patterns with Black American imagery—a powerful, witty commentary on culture and history.
2. Corey Damen Jenkins
Bold Patterns and High Glamour
If you appreciate drama, color, and unapologetic luxury, then Corey Damen Jenkins is your go-to designer. In fact, his work feels like stepping into a haute couture showroom—only this time, it’s designed for your living room.
Acclaimed Collaborations and Awards
He’s won awards from the likes of the International Design Guild and was a breakout star on HGTV. More recently, his Masterclass on interior design has brought his style and savvy to global audiences.
From “Showhouse” to “Masterclass”
Jenkins went from designing showhouses to teaching on Masterclass, inspiring a new generation of diverse designers to take up space in the industry—literally and figuratively.
3. Nicole Gibbons
From TV to Tech: A Multifaceted Career
Nicole Gibbons is a former TV personality turned design-tech entrepreneur. You might’ve seen her on Home Made Simple, but her real revolution came when she launched Clare.
Clare Paint – Disrupting the Industry
Clare is a direct-to-consumer paint brand that ditches the hardware store hassle. Gibbons made it easier (and chicer) than ever to transform your walls with her curated color palettes.
Simplicity Meets Sophistication
Nicole’s design philosophy is clean, approachable, and curated for modern living. Think: neutral tones with a pop, and spaces that feel both calming and cool.
Read More: 5 Simple Tips to Make Living Room Storage Look Expensive
4. Mikel Welch
Designing with Heart and Heritage
Mikel Welch has a talent for combining warmth with wow-factor. His designs honor his upbringing, with nods to Southern hospitality, layered textures, and global influences.
Celebrity Spaces and Global Projects
He has designed green rooms for Steve Harvey and The Kelly Clarkson Show, and extends his work beyond TV sets into real homes and high-profile residences.
From Set Design to Real Life Spaces
Starting behind the scenes, Welch brought his eye for TV-ready designs into the real world. Today, he’s a go-to for luxe interiors that still feel lived-in and welcoming.
5. Brigette Romanek
Luxe Living with a Cool Edge
Brigette Romanek designs homes that feel rich, modern, and just a little bit rock-and-roll. A former singer, she brings a creative spirit and bold vision to every room.
Client List and Celebrity Homes
She counts Beyoncé, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Joe Jonas among her clients. Her style is all about clean lines, textured layers, and personality-packed pieces.
Romanek Design Studio – A Brand of Its Own
Her firm, Romanek Design Studio, is synonymous with luxury without pretension—homes that are striking, stylish, and soulful.
Honorable Mentions: Rising Black Design Stars
Emerging Talent to Watch
Names like Alvin Wayne, Dani Arps, and DuVäl Reynolds are shaking things up with fresh ideas and fearless style. They’re redefining what modern Black design looks like.
How Social Media Elevates New Voices
Thanks to platforms like Instagram and Pinterest, emerging designers are reaching global audiences and building their brands outside the traditional gatekeeping system.
Challenges Black Designers Still Face
Lack of Recognition and Opportunities
Despite their talents, many Black designers still struggle with getting mainstream attention, access to big-budget projects, and seats at the industry’s biggest tables.
However, they continue to push boundaries and pave the way for future success.
The Push for Inclusive Design Communities
Organizations like the Black Interior Designers Network are working to amplify these voices; nevertheless, there’s still a long way to go toward real equality in the design world.
How to Support Black Interior Designers
Hire, Promote, and Share Their Work
Support isn’t just about admiration—it’s about action. Hire Black designers, share their work on social, and recommend them for gigs.
Shop Black-Owned Design Brands
From furniture to textiles to paint, there’s a growing list of Black-owned brands you can shop to beautify your space and support diversity.
Final Thoughts on Black Excellence in Design
These five designers (and many more) are changing the face of interior design, one room at a time. Their work is beautiful, bold, and filled with cultural richness. So whether you’re planning a renovation or simply love eye-catching interiors, these creators are not only worth your follow, but also your support.
