Muse Noire Interiors
What made you decide that being a designer was your calling?
The birth of our daughter.
In short, her existence is the muse.
The Spruce / Photo Illustration by Amy Sheehan /Muse Noire Interiors
As first-generation homeowners, Justin and I started our home design journey with Naomi’snursery.
How would you describe your style and approach to designing spaces?
Our design ethos is rooted in a contemporary global aesthetic.
Muse Noire Interiors
When done with great intention, design solves a problem.
So my go-to design inspiration is from the five continents and 17 countries I have traveled to.
Travel and the opportunity to experience other cultures constantly remind us how connected we are as a global community.
Muse Noire Interiors
So I am inspired by the customs of all and the architecture that supports our differences.
What design project have you done thats stuck with you throughout your career?
A residential project that will always stick with me is one that we will wrap up in 2024.
Muse Noire Interiors
Its a whole home project in Raleigh, NC, with one of our best clients.
How do you incorporate the communities you grew up in into your work?
It means a lot and still, I would not want to be anyone else.
Muse Noire Interiors
What does it mean to you to be Black in your industry?
Thats a big question with so many different facets.
It means sometimes youll be the only one in a room on your rise to the top.
It means youll be sought after during the shortest month of the year.
It means less capital, less room for error, and more time debunking the monolith of Black design.
It means doing it anyway.
It means a lot and still, I would not want to be anyone else.
Whats your favorite part of your own home?
We live in a historic home built in 1920.
That financial security has allowed me to focus my resources on the development of Muse Noire.
Whats one thing you attempt to incorporate in every space you design?
A layered tactile experience, I want people to want to touch everything.
I also add a listening element to each project.
What’s your go-to shop when you want nice decor?
A place that’s accessible to all: Etsy!
But to the trade only, my go-to is Schwung Home.
What design trend are you tired of?
I think Geometric wood slats have stayed beyond their welcome as well as faux grass/fauxplant wallsin restaurants.
Where’s the best place you’ve ever been design-wise?
Iceland and Shanghai tie for the top spot.
