Supporting Black-owned businesses isn’t just about engaging with consumer brands and companies that align with your values (though that certainly doesn’t hurt). It’s also about supporting independent Black artists, designers, and entrepreneurs in their creative endeavors — especially those paving their way in a historically homogeneous industry like interior design.
Enter the below accomplished Black interior designers. These women have made a name for themselves on the Havenly platform and beyond, tackling projects across the globe while honing their signature design styles. Ahead, get to know a few of our favorite Havenly designers (as well as their stunning portfolios) and collaborate with them on your next home project.
Toussaint Derby
Based out of New Jersey, lead designer Toussaint Derby brings a touch of refined East Coast glam to her primarily mid-century modern aesthetic. As evidenced by her body of work, she understands the power of rich velvet upholstery, eye-catching jewel tones, and a well-placed gold pendant light. “I like clean lines and classic pieces, but always add a bit of drama and a luxe feel to my spaces,” she explains. Aesthetics aside, Toussaint believes that good design comes down to comfort. “Every person deserves to feel good in and about their space,” she adds. “Your home should be your sanctuary.” Follow Toussaint on Instagram for more modern-glam design inspo: @tbluederbyinteriors
Tara Stallion
Los Angeles-based Tara Stallion is an expert at mixing design styles — particularly modern and farmhouse. “This is by far my favorite design aesthetic — it brings a clean, bright look to any room,” she explains. True to form, her projects are brimming with warm neutrals, cozy textiles, and a hint of modern glam. “I love beginning with a neutral palette and adding pops of color and greenery throughout the space.” Follow Tara’s artist journey on Instagram: @Tarastallion
Xiomara Ortiz
Eclectic, playful, and eye-catching is the name of the game for Chicago-based Havenly designer Xiomara Ortiz. Specializing in mid-century modern design with a hint of eclectic whimsy, Xiomara is an expert at tasteful print mixing and bold yet refined palette play. “I believe everyone deserves to live in luxury,” she shares. “To me, virtual design is an attainable luxury that everyone deserves.” Follow her on Instagram for a peek into her own inspired Chicago home, plus endless eclectic-modern design inspo!
Senna Kerr
When asked to describe her signature design style, Orlando-based Senna Kerr has thoughts. “It’s a modern Scandinavian, European, Spanish farmhouse countryside cottage vibe,” she says, laughing. “It sounds crazy but it works!” Replete with earth tones, greenery, and pops of color, her work is equal parts homey and artful. She has a thing for natural, woven accents paired with bold colors, and she’s right — it does work beautifully.
Troyce Smith
One look at Troyce Smith’s portfolio, and you’ll see that she really can do it all. The Connecticut-based designer describes her style as “contemporary with global influences,” and we’d have to agree — she’s adept at balancing minimalism with eclectic touches and eye-catching artwork to create spaces that feel inviting and lived-in. “My favorite design aesthetic is classic, mid-century, and contemporary modern,” she explains. “I begin with a neutral palette, and then glam, global, or eclectic elements. And color too! It’s all in the mix.” Follow Troyce on instagram for more design inspo: @infinitechicinteriors
Kasee Smith
Chicago-based interior designer Kasee Smith is a creative force when it comes to luxe, layered, bold, and personality-packed interiors. In addition to working as a Havenly Lead Designer, she sits at the helm of her own design studio Studio Noire (check it out on Instagram and Facebook!). She describes her design style as “luxe modern” and believes that all spaces should be imbued with warmth, character, and a little art deco glam. She’s the queen of a well-placed pop of eye-catching wallpaper and believes no design is complete without a statement houseplant or two.
Want expert advice on your actual home, straight from an interior designer? Start with our style quiz to work with a design pro one-on-one.