One of the great aspects of the interior design industry is that it appeals to everyone. No matter your background many of us want to be living in a visually impressive space. What makes this industry universal is that the beauty of a space does not have to be governed by a dollar amount. With the surge of DIY, it has become even more accessible for people to achieve stunning spaces on a budget.
However, one thing constantly overlooked in this industry is diversity. It is not as common to see a person of color promoted as an expert in the field or given their own HGTV show for all to see.
This is an unfortunate reality that many people of color deal with. They are not able to see examples of themselves in their work, hobbies, interests, etc. What makes this situation even more upsetting is the number of people of color who are beautiful designers but not receiving the recognition they deserve.
I have decided to use my platform to bring some of these amazing interior designers and home interior bloggers work to the forefront.
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Here are 8 interior design books by black designers that are a MUST HAVE to inspire you and style your coffee table or bookshelves:
Furnishing Forward by Sheila Bridges
This book is such an invaluable source of advice. In Furnishing Forward, Sheila focuses on helping new homeowners learn how to find and purchase furniture meant to last. A guide to buying “real” furniture. She also helps the reader to identify their own personal style and create a realistic budget within that style. In the midst of all this information, Sheila shares stories from her own personal experience that are intriguing and inspiring.
The New Bohemians: Cool and Collected Homes by Justina Blakeney
Two words to describe Justina Blakeney’s first book: Bold and Beautiful. The New Bohemians is for all those out there who don’t see why work and play can’t be one-in-the-same. The New Bohemians is for the creative, free spirited individual that loves vibrant colors and patterns. Justina has even included a “Plant-O-Pedia” to help you achieve the right amount of greenery in your new eclectic space.
The Collected Home and The New Traditional by Darryl Carter
Darryl Carter is one of the best when it comes to creating a timeless aesthetic that remains functional for everyday use. He encourages you to use your design style and your lifestyle to create a room that you will always enjoy. While The New Traditional gives an overview of home design principles that combine traditional and modern elements, in The Collected Home, Darryl gives a multitude of tips for implementing and creating a home rich in character and style.
Beautifully Organized: A Guide to Function and Style in Your Home by Nikki Boyd
Nikki Boyd has created a read that has captured the essence of her popular blog, At Home with Nikki. Using 5 essential steps, Nikki teaches the reader to look at the spaces around them, declutter, organize and then beautify. This book does not just focus on constructing a beautiful home but also in manifesting the lifestyle that you dream of living. If you are looking to design a home that warms the soul and welcomes everyone, Beautifully Organized is for you.
Wild Interiors: Beautiful Plants in Beautiful Spaces by Hilton Carter
Do you have proud plant parent goals? Look no further than Hilton Carter’s second book Wild Interiors. This book focuses solely on how to use plants in your home space. Hilton showcases amazing homes that are decorated in greenery. He also shares insight into the best plants to use in whatever room you may be decorating. Hilton knows how to make an impact with plant life and he will show you how to do the same in your own home.
Restoration Home by Kennesha Buycks
Ever sit and wish you could be living in your dream home instead of the one you currently are in? Then Restoration Home is the book for you! Kennesha Buycks focuses on creating your dream home right now, whether you are a renter or homeowner. She highlights ways that you can decorate on a budget all while creating a space that is warm, inviting and embraces beauty and functionality.
Home Sweet Rented Home by Medina Grillo
For the renter that dreams of a beautiful home while staying in the bounds of their lease, Home Sweet Rented Home is a must. Medina Grillo shares some invaluable tips and tricks to get the home you’ve been dreaming of through DIY projects that even a design novice could master. If you are ready to level up your home no matter your style or budget, you have to have this book.
These are just some of the amazing black interior designers that are paving the way for a more diverse industry. Supporting these trailblazers is an honor as I look forward to future changes in the home design industry.
xo, Gbeke
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Photos – Images by Angela
I first heard about you from a Michael’s ad, very inspiring, keep up the good work
Thank you so much! 🥰