How to Support Black Business in Your Home

As protests against racial injustice persist, many of us have stopped, listened, opened our eyes, and educated ourselves on the problem of race in this country. As a nation we are hurting, but hopefully we are on our way to forging a path towards long-term systematic change.

However, change isn’t immediate and it is not a guarantee. All of us need to make daily efforts to be conscious of our words and actions, while actively making choices that will have real impact for the movement. This includes how you shop and decorate your home. A small way we can make a difference is in choosing to support black business owners, artists, and designers.

And it is easy to do when there is so much talent right at your fingertips (or mouse). Whether you’re looking for a few decorative items to complete your home, undergoing a complete refresh, or searching for artwork, there is a black designer, artist, or store you can shop for the perfect piece.

Here are a couple of my favorites and items that I am currently recommending to clients:

LIANA RAE | BOSTON, MA

Liana’s work completely draws me in. The rough canvas and texture she creates with layering paint is something I have an immediate response to. Her work is modern, minimalist, and the perfect compliment to any room. Unfortunately (for us) all of her work has sold out, but follow Liana on Insta and add her to your ‘wait list’ because you’ll want to snag one of her pieces as soon as you can. She also does commissioned pieces!

54Kibo | New York City

Nana Quagraine created 54Kibo after realizing how underrepresented African designers and artists were. And I’m so glad she did! 54Kibo offers a range of items from furniture and throws to skincare and accessories. Lots of bright, colorful seating options along with beautifully crafted wood pieces that I can’t take my eyes off of.

Bole Road | Brooklyn, NY

This is the textile shop I’ve been searching for – seriously. Bole offers soothing + bold color palettes with simple striped + geometric patterns that will blend with any style home. They also have a solid mix of bed coverlets, which I’m always on the hunt for. Shop this store today and every day.

Goodee World | Canada

You’ll find a little bit of everything here from colorful textiles to thoughtfully-crafted furniture, and handwoven baskets. I’m currently loving these playful stuffed animals that are all about inclusion and the perfect touch for a nursery. Each animal comes with a name + country of origin, is made from recycled materials, and supports environmental causes. It doesn’t hurt that they have all the feels for your little one to pull, squeeze, and snuggle.

45 Three Modern Vintage Home | Los Angeles, CA

You’ll have to shop in-store for this one, but if you’re not in the area check out their Instagram. With a big focus on art, this vintage shop is going to surprise you with beautifully curated pieces. I’ve said it before and I’ll never stop saying it: I love found objects and vintage pieces. They make homes feel uniquely personal and breath a second life into items that might otherwise end up in a dumpster. I wouldn’t have stumbled on this place without dedicating time and effort into supporting black business owners and I’m so happy I have.

Marie Burgos Design + Shop | NYC + Los Angeles, CA

Owner and designer Marie has put her own unique stamp on the design world routed in influence from mid-century designs and her upbringing in Paris. This mix has gifted us all with a lovely collection of luxury items that can add a bit of that ‘Je ne sais quois’ mystique to your home. These pendants in particular caught my eye. They have a handmade, textural quality to them that stands out from the crowd. Zoom in, they are magical.

MJ Wood Co | Austin, TX

What I love most about Melia is that she is a self-taught woodworker who has turned her passion into a career. As a second-career designer I respect dedication it takes to turn what you love into a viable business. Melia’s wood pieces are simple and thats what I love most. Looking for a cutting board that will step up your kitchen game? What about a fancy dog bowl stand? She’s got you!

Denniston House | Unknown

Always a fan of incorporating vintage into a design. Also a fan of clean aesthetics with simple materials which Denniston House is chalk full of. The shop is relatively new and most of their inventory is out of stock, but its worth adding to your ‘keep watch’ list, because once stock is back you’ll want to buy everything. Here are some of my favorites, of gone, but I hope you come back soon items.

Looking for more?

Below is a comprehensive list of artists, designers and business owners by category that I follow or discovered & learned about over the last two weeks. 

Shop For Your Home

1. AphroChic 
2. Bonita Interiors
3. Domain 
4. Domicile37
5. Dressing Rooms Interiors Studio 
6. Expedition Subsahara 
7. Jungalow 
8. Linoto 
9. Linchen 
10. Clare Paint
11. Mitchelle Black
12. Peace & Riot
13. Jomo Furniture
14. Printed Pattern People
15. Recycled Modern
16. Stud Pillows

Follow For Art & Inspiration 

1. Bloom Hope Art
2. By Liana Rae
3. Ronni Nicole 
4. Tactile Matter 
5. LarArt
6. Lisa Hunt
7. Bria Corranda
8. Sam Gilliam

Hire to Step Up Your Design 

1. Faith Blakeney Design (Los Angeles, CA)
2. Romanek Design Studio (Los Angeles, CA)
3. Nubi Interiors (Memphis, TN)
4. Ishka Designs (Brooklyn, NY)
5. Sweeten (Nationwide)
6. Bridgid Coulter Designs (Los Angeles, CA)
7. Candace Mary Interiors (Detroit, MI)
8. Right Meets Left Interior Design (NYC)

Add Some Blooms To Your Life (or insta feed)

1. Ellamah
2. Offerings Co.
3. Flowerboy Project
4. Whit Hazen
5. Bloom & Plumb