28 Days OF Diversity In Design: Day 7
As a product designer I spend alot of time going to tradeshows, trend forecasts, meetups and networking events and always notice the lack of diversity in the room. For the last few years I have spoken to other designers and even bloggers about why nobody ever does a designer of color spotlight atleast during the month of February. I decided this weekend to fill the void myself. My inspiration came most recently from following Wayne Sutton and his #28 Days Of Diversity: People Impacting Social Media blog. I have connected and learned about fellow colleagues in social media that I was unfamiliar with and hope to offer the same benefit by introducing you to a few brilliant creatives in the world of design. Sure it is already 27 days into the month, but we are creating black history daily, so please join me for the ride over the next 28 days and explore the amazing color of design.
Day 7: Meet B. Smith
B. Smith is a trailblazer in the area of lifestyle and design for African Americans. B. Smith who was formerly a model has transcended her grace, style and elegance into a lifestyle, known foremost for her restaurants in NY, D.C, and Sag Harbor. The beauty and elegance of the restaurants brought Bed, Bath & Beyond knocking on her door to create a home collection, which debuted in 2001. Her collection is the first line by an African American to be sold at a nationwide retailer. She has everyhing from duvets, window treatments, bathroom accessories, candles, art and rugs in the collection. She also has licensed products including wall art, mirrors, and furniture. B. Smith is conquering everything from design to media, with 2 cookbooks, and a new tv show set to air this year. B. Smith is every woman. To read more about B. Smith check her website, to see the entire collection for Bed, Bath and Beyond go here, and for her restaurants click here.
