IS IT TIME TO SAY NO TO NEUTRALS?

With neutral hues taking front seat in the design trends these past few years, I'm left wondering who sucked the life out of our interior spaces? Who had the gall to do away with glorious color? Not afraid of bucking the trends or creating a little fuss, I propose a full revolt against pale rooms and raise my fist in favor for color.

My plea is probably as dramatic as the rooms featured in my recent article for Houzz, but seriously I'm looking for some spaces that encourage a little fun. We practice enough restraint in public, so why not let our hair down, get wild, and get colorful. It is quite liberating. If you aren't afraid to be a bit rebellious, take a look at the rest of these amazing spaces. Have a wonderful Friday!

HGTV SALUTES AFRICAN AMERICAN DESIGNERS

I’d like to say a big hello to any readers via HGTV's Design Happens blog. I’m so very honored to be mentioned in its Black History Month  feature "Trailblazers, Movers, and Shakers." A big thank you goes out to Anna Millman for writing the article.

I Love My Hair prints - designer Andrea Pippins

 After reading the post, I thought back to an interview last year when I was asked the following questions:

As an African-American interior designer, do you feel that African-Americans are under-represented in the design industry? What do you think should be done to encourage more African-Americans to become interior designers?
Yes.  I think the disparity comes from youth not having much exposure to the field. Due to tight state budgets, art programs in our school systems have been either drastically cut or eliminated. Once of my favorite vocational education classes was industrial arts. My high school also offered drafting for a short time, but was eliminated before I had a chance to sign up. It may be time for the design community to rally together to volunteer their time and money to offer relevant art programs to our youth.

What advice do you have for other African-American interior designers reading this interview?
My advice would be the same to all artists. Get out there are interact with ALL artists, not just a particular group of people. We are all united by a common thread, our God given artistic talents. EVERYONE has a place in the design community. Success is not reserved for a chosen few. Believe that.
_____________________________________________________________________________________

I HAVE A QUESTION FOR YOU.

As always I appreciate your thoughtful comments and feedback here on BluLabel Bungalow! I would like to know your opinion.  

Do you feel that African-Americans are under-represented in the design industry?

I'm not sure if many will comment given the sensitivity on topics of race, but here you have an open forum. All comments will be published.

VIDEO: PURE DESIGN

From delectable bites to inspiring retro design, Pure Taqueria brings more to the table than fabulous fare.

Photography by Katlyne Hill

Located in the Inman Park community of Atlanta, Pure Taqueria has quickly become one of my favorite hotspots for some of the freshest authentic Mexican dishes. Every since Dayka turned me on to this place about 2 weeks ago, I've been back three times! In addition to falling in love with the food, I was completely smitted by the decor.

 

Meredith Fords of the Atlanta Journal Constitution described it best when she said, "Eating here feels like a day at a Mexican beach." The restaurant has whitewashed planked walls as well as accent walls of watery mosaic tiles like sea glass found on the shore. The ceilings and duct work are exposed but are painted a beautiful seafoam green. 

Vintage signs, furnishings, fabrics, and retro appliances make this place feel welcoming and familiar. Upon entry, one of the first things you see are the employees' lockers painted in a sunny yellow. As you continue further into the restaurant with its retro fabrics, tables, chairs, and barstools, you will see it has an undeniable schoolhouse charm.

Here are a few examples of homes that incorporate a bit of the retro vibe:

houzz.com

 Bosworth Hoedemaker

David Churchill

Fiorella Design

LOLLIPOP LIGHTING

If you are like me, you are always trying to find new ways to add color to your home. In my most recent article for Houzz, I challenged readers to go bold with accent lamps! I provided a tasty selection of lighting and tips on adding character to your home.

 Alexander Johnson Photography

Want to add a few juicy hues to your space? Head over to check my article and be inspired. Wondering how to achieving this look, leave me a question in the comments section!

VIDEO: ARE YOU INTIMIDATED BY DIY PROJECTS?