In the world of interior design, Black designers are making waves by blending cultural heritage with contemporary aesthetics to redefine modern home decor. These trailblazers are not only creating stunning spaces but are also challenging industry norms, infusing their designs with bold colors, rich textures, and stories of their heritage. From eco-conscious innovations to luxurious yet approachable styles, their work celebrates diversity and creativity in every detail. Here are five Black designers who are leaving an indelible mark on the home decor world and inspiring a new era of design.
1. Corey Damen Jenkins
Corey Damen Jenkins is a trailblazer in the world of luxury interior design, blending classic elegance with modern flair. Based in New York, Jenkins is renowned for his ability to mix bold colors, intricate patterns, and rich textures in a way that feels both timeless and contemporary. His designs often feature dramatic elements like jewel tones and metallic finishes, proving that luxury doesn’t have to feel intimidating.
Jenkins gained widespread recognition after winning HGTV’s Showhouse Showdown and has since worked on high-profile projects across the U.S. He recently released a design book, Design Remix, which explores his philosophy of mixing unexpected elements to create spaces that feel both personal and polished. You can explore more of his work through his website, Corey Damen Jenkins & Associates, which showcases his transformative approach to modern home decor.
2. Sheila Bridges
Sheila Bridges, often referred to as the “Queen of Harlem design,” is known for her sophisticated yet approachable style. Her work seamlessly combines modern minimalism with Afrocentric themes, often incorporating historical and cultural motifs. Bridges is best known for her Harlem Toile de Jouy collection, which puts a playful, African-American spin on traditional French toile patterns, featuring scenes of everyday Black life.
Bridges’ designs are both timeless and thought-provoking, with her textiles, wallpapers, and furniture pieces being highly sought after. She has been featured in publications like Architectural Digest and Elle Decor, and her work has even been showcased in the Smithsonian. To explore her iconic Harlem Toile collection and other designs, visit her website at Sheila Bridges Design. Bridges continues to inspire with her commitment to celebrating Black culture through her work.
3. Justina Blakeney
A pioneer of the “Jungalow” aesthetic, Justina Blakeney has redefined modern home decor by blending bohemian elements with Afrocentric influences. Known for her vibrant use of colors, bold patterns, and lush greenery, Blakeney encourages self-expression through design. Her work often incorporates natural textures, such as rattan and bamboo, and celebrates cultural diversity with globally inspired prints and accents.
Blakeney’s brand, Jungalow, offers an array of home decor items like rugs, pillows, and wallpaper that are both playful and sophisticated. Her pieces reflect her commitment to making design approachable and eco-friendly, with many products sourced sustainably. Whether it’s through her design books or collaborations with major retailers like Target, Blakeney is showing the world that home decor can be bold, meaningful, and inclusive.
4. Nicole Gibbons
Nicole Gibbons has reimagined how people approach home design by creating Clare, a direct-to-consumer paint company that makes choosing paint colors stress-free. As an interior designer and entrepreneur, Gibbons saw a need for simplicity and transparency in the home improvement industry. Clare’s curated selection of high-quality, eco-friendly paints has become a favorite among homeowners and designers alike.
Gibbons’ approach to design is rooted in creating spaces that feel welcoming and functional, with a focus on clean lines and neutral palettes. Her work has been featured in major outlets like HGTV and House Beautiful. Clare’s user-friendly website, Clare Paint, offers tools like peel-and-stick color swatches, making it easier than ever to bring modern sophistication into your home. Gibbons’ innovative vision continues to make her a standout in the world of modern home decor.
5. Breegan Jane
Breegan Jane is a rising star in interior design, known for her modern yet family-friendly spaces. A designer, entrepreneur, and HGTV host, Jane blends luxury and practicality in her work, creating homes that are both beautiful and livable. Her designs often feature warm, earthy tones, natural materials, and layered textures that add depth and personality to any space.
In addition to her design projects, Jane is an advocate for women in business and frequently speaks on topics related to entrepreneurship and design. She also emphasizes sustainability in her work, incorporating eco-conscious practices into her projects whenever possible. To learn more about her unique approach to modern decor, visit her website at Breegan Jane. Her innovative take on design proves that style and functionality can go hand in hand, making her a standout in the industry.
