Joy Navons journey to vibrant, culture-infused design.
Were highlighting talented Black interior designers who are thriving in the industry today.
Meet the Expert
Joy Navonis an interior designer with deep roots in Brooklyn, New York.
The Spruce / Photo Illustration by Corinne Mucha / Kenton Berkeley
She’s heavily influenced by her parents' passion for creative expression and her deep connection to Black culture.
My name is Joy Navon and I was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York.
I didn’t realize how special that was until I got older.
Photo by Kenton Berkeley
That really shaped my upbringing.
I love musicmy father played a huge part in thatbut I get my style and influence from my mother.
She always kept fashion, interior magazines and Black publications around the house.
Photo by Kenton Berkeley
I was fascinated by them.
I went on to graduate from an HBCU, Virginia State University.
Thats when I really fell in with Black culture and discovered my personal identity.
Photo by Kenton Berkeley
Want more design inspiration?
What made you decide that being a designer was your calling?
I feel like design called me.
Photo by Kenton Berkeley
Ive always had what they call, an eye."
Becoming an interior designer has been my dream since childhood.
It started around eight or nine years old when I saw the show Trading Spaces: Boys vs Girls.
Photo by Kenton Berkeley
Seeing kids use their creativity through interiors was mind-blowing.
That was the first time I ever saw design achievable for someone like me.
From then on, I knew thats what I wanted to do.
Photo by Kenton Berkeley
I went through a lot of roadblocks on the journey but I’m so grateful to be here now.
How would you describe your personal style and approach to designing spaces?
My style is definitely modern-eclectic.
Photo by Kenton Berkeley
Im extremely attracted to clean lines, heavy materials and bold colors.
I love blending styles and textures with culture and personal interests.
Design, like any art-form, has the power to evoke emotion.
Photo by Kenton Berkeley
So for me, thats how I like to start.
Functionality is also always at the forefront.
I find inspiration everywhere.
As a Black woman, my culture speaks through everything that I do.
Im naturally drawn to elements of design thatremind me of my surroundingsand upbringing.
Also, artpaintings, prints, and patterns are heavy inspiration for me.
They sometimes lead my design plans or even cause me to adjust.
What design project have you done thats stuck with you throughout your career?
It was the first major project that I ever worked on, and Im still working on it.
Juggling that renovation with content creation introduced me to so many clients.
It changed my career all together.
Thats just another reason why itll stick with me forever.
How do you incorporate design elements from the communities you grew up in into your work?
One of my favorite materials is rattan; it reminds me of my great-grandmothers peacock chair.
I admired that chair and it always reminded me of her.
Now that I have my own home, I have multiple pieces of rattan furniture.
What does it mean to you to be a woman of color in your industry?
It means everything, simply everything because I dont see it often.
Theres so many talented designers out there who have something unique to offer if given the opportunity.
Whats your favorite part of your own home?
This is extremely hard to choose because I love every part of my home.
Ive tried to fill every inch of my space with personality, comfort, and thoughtfulness.
I think Ive accomplished that because its become a sanctuary for me and my family.
Whats one thing you have a go at incorporate in every space you design?
I dont see life in black and white, so I dont design that way.
What’s your go-to shop when you want nice decor?
I would have to say CB2.
Ive always loved everything they have to offer.
Their inventory is always infused with bold, unique items that you cant find anywhere else.
What design trend are you tired of?
If I had to choose I would say boucle.
Its a beautiful material, so I do see the appeal, however I dont find it feasible long-term.
Like all trends its going to age out, but if its something you enjoy that shouldnt even matter.
Where’s the best place you’ve ever been design-wise?
I would have to say the resort Atelier Playa Mujeres in Mexico.
Its very contemporary with high-end design.
I was awestruck and inspired during my entire stay.
What you’re able to expect to see from me is evolution.
Im constantly striving to push the boundaries of whats acceptable and trendy in design.
I will always focus on how I feel in the moment; my style is ever-changing.
