Were highlighting talented Black interior designers who are thriving in the industry today.

Studio 7 Design Group

What made you decide that being a designer was your calling?

I knew it was my calling because of the impact of space.

Kai Williamson

The Spruce / Photo Illustration by Amy Sheehan /Studio 7 Design Group

Space certainly expresses the transformative power of design as a language.

I wanted to understand more about the science and possibilities of interior design.

Your team is entirely women-runcan you tell us more about how it impacts the creative space?

Living room designed by Studio 7 Design Group

Studio 7 Design Group

Having a team of all-women is actually not intentional.

How would you describe your personal style and approach to designing spaces?

Design inspiration for me really comes from everywhere.

Living room designed by Studio 7 Design Group

Studio 7 Design Group

The architecture and interior design industry is widely known to be institutionally exclusive.

It often overlooks Black creatives and consumers.

This lack of representation ultimately leads to disconnected client experiences and an untapped market.

Kitchen designed by Studio 7 Design Group

Studio 7 Design Group

Whats your favorite part of your own home?

My favorite part of my own home is theopen-concept family room, kitchen, and dining area.

I really love to entertain, and I love to curate a space that is meant for gathering.

Sitting area by Studio 7 design group

Studio 7 Design Group

Whats one thing you take a stab at incorporate in every space you design?

I strive toincorporate livable luxuryinto every space.

Its super important to verify luxury doesnt supersede functionality.

Living room designed by Studio 7 Design Group

Studio 7 Design Group

Adding accessories is another simple way to achieve livable luxury.

What’s your go-to shop when you want nice decor?

My go-to shops for nice decor really vary based on region.

I’ll mention a few shops that I particularly appreciate in some of the cities where Studio 7 operates.

When Im in LA, I really enjoy Accessory Preview.

Its an amazing store in West Hollywood with lots of beautiful objects.

When Im in Atlanta, I really like Townhouse by Robert Brown.

When Im in New York, I like to pull pieces from Natuzzi.

They have some really great pieces.

I also really enjoy pieces from SoHo Home and CB2.

What design trend are you tired of?

Its also important to understand the differenttypes of bouclesbecause they dont all wear the same.

Im exhausted from the ivory boucle.

Where’s the best place you’ve ever been design-wise?

The best place Ive been, design-wise, is really tough!

Both for very different reasons.

Paris always enhances my understanding of how to integrate tributes to antiquity with modernity and find that balance.

Any tips for readers wanting to get a Luxe for Less look in their homes?

Placing all furniture legs on a larger rug instantly refreshes the space.

Its an inexpensive way to make a space feel more defined.

Also,hang your drapery higher.

Try hanging drapery rods about 3 inches from the ceiling or crown molding.

Drapery always enhances the look of a room.

Be sure all drapery, curtains, and sheers are no more than 1/4 inch from the floor.