Breaking Out of Design Norms Is at the Forefront of This Black Designer's Work (2024)

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Acknowledging the contribution of Black interior designers to the design and decor spaces is crucial to moving forward and giving all voices, regardless of their backgrounds, the space to be heard. We’re highlighting talented Black interior designers who are thriving in the industry today.

With a decade of experience in the design world, Kara Thomas of Studio KT is no stranger to its ins and outs. Like most designers, Thomas' interest was sparked at a young age and gradually developed into a full-blown career over time, even while she found herself on a career path that couldn't be more different from design.

The core of Thomas' philosophy is the belief that our interior spaces greatly impact our day-to-day lives—and so Studio KT's mission has been to bring tangible elements together to create intangible moments.

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

My journey towards becoming adesignerbegan in my childhood, when my mom granted me the creative reins for a major bedroom makeover every few years, allowing me to choose themes, paint colors, and bedding, etc. The joy and confidence thisexperience sparked in me revealed my innate passion for design. Growing up surrounded by my mom's enthusiasm for DIY projects, coupled with my dad's latent talent for painting, further nurtured my appreciation for creativity.

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

My goal is to challenge norms, explore the unexpected, and curate environments that stand out in a world saturated with conformity. It's not just about aesthetics; it's about crafting narratives through design—stories that unfold within the walls and resonate with the vibrancy and individuality of each client

Do you have any design inspiration, whether it be from your culture, other cultures, or anything else in between?

I am naturally a very curious person and my design inspiration comes from life experiences. Whether it's traveling, immersing myself in diverse cultures, witnessing the array of colors from a sunset, finding beauty in nail art, browsing the latest fashion trends, stumbling upon random color palettes, indulging in fine art, exploring street art, or savoring the nuances of food—every encounter becomes a potential muse.

Pinterest and Instagram are also a daily dose of inspiration for me. The plethora of creative minds that share their craft is overwhelming at times but mindblowing. It's cheesybut the world is my muse, offering infiniteinspiration that fuels my passion for creating unique designs.

What design project have you done that’s stuck with you throughout your career?

One pivotal project in my career was working with an NBA client early on when I was relatively inexperienced but eager to take on clients under my company. Unfortunately, the project ended on unfavorable terms, but the lessons were monumental.

This experience is still a hard pill to swallow, as I navigated through a series of missteps—from attempting to handle everything independently, to a lack of effective communication, a vague vision for the project, and managing impractical deadlines from the client. I realized the importance of asserting myself, educating the client, and establishing clear expectations.

Although it was a tough journey, I've embraced this as a valuable learning experience. It's a testament to the resilience and adaptability required in the dynamic field of design.

What does it mean to you to be Black in your industry?

Being a young,blackdesignerin an industry predominantly characterized by maturity and whiteness has presented its share of challenges and moments of discouragement. The comfort in seeking and hiring designers who share similar backgrounds inadvertently perpetuates a lack of diversity in this field.

Despite these hurdles, I choose to focus on abundance. I recognize that hiring a luxurydesignermay not be a priority or accessible for the average family.

Still, I believe in the power of representation and I hope to inspire my community through my talent and dedication. I aspire to contribute to a shift in perception, proving that theblackcommunity is equally deserving and capable of enjoying the same luxuries as other demographics.

What’s your favorite part of your own home?

My favorite space in my home is my balcony. It's where I have the pleasure of watching the sunrise and basking in the warmth of the morning sun. This space has become a daily retreat for both myself and my fur baby, Harley. Whether it's enjoying my morning coffee, diving into a good book, meditation, or simply taking a mental break from work, my balcony is my oasis to recharge.

What’s one thing you try to incorporate in every space you design?

My philosophy is "something old, something new" because every good design story is inspired by history. I aim to create environments that feel lived-in, where the harmony between old and new reflects a balance between tradition and modernity.

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

When it comes to sourcing unique decor, my go-to platforms are 1stDibs and Etsy. These platforms have been invaluable in my design journey, serving as gateways to a world of creativity and craftsmanship from talented artists across the globe.

Both have played a pivotal role in broadening my design horizons, allowing me to connect with artists whose work might have remained undiscovered otherwise. The ability to support and showcase independentartists worldwide enhances the character of every space I design.

What design trend are you tired of?

There's a recurring trend with a consistent neutral palette. Don't get me wrong, a room filled with brown and white tones can be beautiful but I find myself craving a departure from the monotony. My design sensibility leans towards a more expressive use of color, coupled with the inclusion of striking art.

In an era where individuality and self-expression are highly valued, I believe our living spaces should be a reflection of that diversity. Incorporating bold colors and captivating artwork not only adds personality to a room but also creates a dynamic and engaging atmosphere.

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

Selecting a single space is a challenge for me. However, when it comes to sparking creativity and innovation, boutique hotels and restaurants hold a special place in my heart. The Proper and Virgin Hotels have consistently demonstrated thoughtful design. Sketch in London stands out as a personal favorite as well.

European design captivates me with its commitment to craftsmanship and character. Many spaces throughout Europe exude a richness and regality that stems from a deep appreciation for the artistry involved.

You can feel the love and dedication woven into every detail. It motivates me to infuse my projects with the same level of passion and attention to detail.