As the second of three sisters, creativity was always her refuge.
Where are you from and what was it like growing up there?
I grew up in Gulfport, Mississippi, a coastal town in the deep south.
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My parents were secondary school educators, and my dad was my middle school principal.
Education and structure were pretty important in our household.
I had a traditional Christian home environment and grew up in a close-knit family with extended family nearby.
Laura Sumrak Photography
I am the second of three sisters and the creative one by far.
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What made you decide that being a designer was your calling?
Laura Sumrak Photography
Ive always been a creative.
My room growing up was my pride and joy.
In college, my room was thedorm roomused to tour prospective students through.
Laura Sumrak Photography
However, it wasnt until later that I recognized my true gift for the discipline.
In January 2012, I launched my blog and business as a creative outlet.
It was my side hustle as I worked full-time in Corporate America.
Laura Sumrak Photography
I signed up for a design class at the local community college.
My little blog quickly started to attract clients and the rest is history.
It was my 36-month exit strategy out of corporate.
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I left my job 36 months (to the day) later.
How would you describe your personal style and approach to designing spaces?
I lean pretty new school traditional.
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My aesthetic includes classic forms with a punch of color and personality.
My signature is color and pattern, it comes in different styles but those two elements are always there.
Im definitely a designer whos inspired by textiles.
Laura Sumrak Photography
Most of my designs are inspired by the textiles used in the space.
Its often where I begin my process.
I find that often, its the textiles that give me cozy spaces.
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The layering of patterns naturally makes a roomwarm and inviting.
What design project have you done thats stuck with you throughout your career?
The project was featured in Southern Home magazine and it became a pivotal moment in my career journey.
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The closet garnered lots of attention and remains one of my all-time favorites.
What does it mean to you to be a Black woman in your industry?
Its encouraging to see so many newblack designers emerging.
Whats your favorite part of your own home?
I recently renovated my principal bath.
It had been on my list to tackle for over a decade.
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Whats one thing you attempt to incorporate in every space you design?
Whether large or small, one-of-a-kind art pieces can add so much personality and visual interest to a space.
What’s your go-to shop when you want nice decor?
I love shopping vintage, so my go-to locations tend to be antique malls and vintage dealer locations.
Theres nothing quite like the thrill of the hunt for a unique treasure.
