But the most important part of this collaborative process of “renovation as rejuvenation” (as Lewis puts it) was tapping into ancestral memory. Reflected in the circular mirror is a framed piece mounted on the opposite wall titled Made for Mom that weaves together pictures of Barnett’s grandmother, her mother, and her mother’s siblings. Not only is this Barnett’s special way of celebrating coming from what she describes as “a lineage of makers,” but the specific placement signals to others that they’re entering a space that is “occupied by the energy and synergy of Black women” that are “supporting you spiritually.”
The most pressing concern for the primary bedroom was “How do we create a place that is an invitation to sensuality and rest?” Lewis says. The designer answered this call with a neutral palette that combines subtle frequencies of pattern to effect a serene private haven. “This room is my sanctuary,” Barnett avers. “It’s a space where I get to retreat and explore other parts of my life. Having my work around me is all a part of me sharing that love for self.”
Lewis applauds Barnett’s vision in curating a space that fully represents Black heritage and culture, pointing out how “pretty much everything in this home has been made, manufactured, produced, and installed by Black hands.” At the same time, she doesn’t lose her own identity in the mix. “I’m committed to telling stories about my clients within their spaces so it feels like an architectural portrait,” he emphasizes.
Barnett sees her home as an investment in the community that she’s worked so hard to bring together, as much as an investment in herself. She hopes visitors feel a strong sense of permanence. “This work is not an individualistic culture project,” Barnett concludes. “It’s a collaboration of minds creatively, physically, and intuitively. That is how we create truly lived-in spaces.”
In focus
Black Artists + Designers Guild founder Malene Barnett highlights six BADG members who are building on the legacy of Black women makers. —Produced by Madeline O’Malley.
Karen J Revis Studio
“I admire Karen’s passion for paper and printmaking processes. I love how she draws a connection between Black experiences through color, pattern, and symbolic elements in each print.”
Cheryl R. Riley
“If you are a die-hard pattern lover like me, you will be drawn to Cheryl’s Kaleidoscope art series. It exemplifies the beauty of vibrant color and pattern repeats in organic shapes.”
Studio Lani