Curated Quarters Summer Issue

DIVERSITY IN INTERIOR DESIGN & CREATIVITY

CURATED QUARTERS SUMMER 2019

Vol. 3

THE COLOR of LOVE

DESIGNING COUPLES

US 14.99

GENTRIFICATION

NURSERY RHYMES

STUDIO H SHARP ATLANTA ARCHITECTS

how well do you know these

Learn more about your breast health at

KnowYourGirls.org

girls?

New 2019 Boa Boa Tree

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lle Gibson is an Atlanta, Georgia based textile + interior designer. She is inspired by the world and all that inhabits it. Her love for culture, art, and nature shine through in the beauty of her joyfully colored and hand-crafted eclectic designs.

She implements a variety of techniques from painting, printmaking, and photography to create her expressive and original fabric + wallpaper patterns. Her products are developed to connect people to the deeper meaning

of their surroundings. In doing this, Elle aspires to create conversations that allow us to celebrate + share our history and entices us to learn more about the different people of the world.

As a graduate of the School of Design at Drexel University, Elle has worked in the fashion industry in NYC and as an interior designer before establishing her namesake textile business in 2016.

Marrakech Wallpaper & Fabric

www.ellegibson.com

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Our History

Sarah Rector the youngest black millionaire

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orn as the daughter of freedmen in 1902, Sarah Rector rose from humble beginnings to reportedly become the wealthiest black girl in the nation at the age of 11.

Rector and her family were African American members of the Muscogee Creek Nation who lived in a modest cabin in the predominantly black town of Taft, Oåklahoma, which, at the time, was considered Indian Territory. Following the Civil War, Rector’s parents, who were formerly enslaved by Creek Tribe members, were entitled to land allotments under the Dawes Allotment Act of 1887. As a result, hundreds of black children, or “Creek Freedmen minors,” were each granted 160 acres of land as Indian Territory integrated with Oklahoma Territory to form the State of Oklahoma in 1907.

While lands granted to former slaves were usually rocky and infertile, Rector’s allotment from the Creek Indian Nation was located in the middle of the Glenn Pool oil field and was initially valued at $556.50. Strapped for cash, Rector’s father leased his daughter’s parcel to a major oil company in February 1911 to help him pay the $30 annual property tax.

Rector’s notoriety ballooned just as quickly as her wealth. In September 1913, The Kansas City Star local newspaper published the headline, “Millions to a Negro Girl – Sarah Rector, 10-Year Old, Has Income of $300 A Day From Oil,” reports Face to Face Africa. In January

1914, the newspaper wrote, “Oil Made Pickaninny Rich – Oklahoma Girl With $15,000 A Month gets Many Proposals – Four White Men in Germany Want to Marry the Negro Child That They Might Share Her Fortune.”

Meanwhile, the Savannah Tribune wrote, “Oil Well Produces Neat Income – Negro Girl’s $112,000 A Year”.

Another newspaper dubbed her “the richest negro in the world.” Her fame became widespread and she received numerous requests for loans, money gifts, and four marriage proposals.

At the time, a law required Native Americans, black adults, and children who were citizens of Indian Territory with significant property and money were to be assigned “well-respected” white guardians. As a result, Rector’s guardianship switched from her parents to a white man named T.J. Porter. Concerned with her wellbeing and her white financial guardian, early NAACP leaders fought to protect her and her fortune. According to a report from BlackPast.org: In 1914 The Chicago Defender published an article claiming that her estate was being mismanaged by grafters and her “ignorant” parents, and that she was uneducated, dressed in rags, and lived in an unsanitary shanty. National African American leaders such as Booker T. Washington and W.E.B. DuBois became concerned about her welfare. None of the allegations were true. Rector and her siblings went to school in Taft, an all-black town closer than Twine, they lived in a modern five-room cottage, and they owned an automobile. That same year, Rector enrolled in the Children’s House, a boarding school for teenagers at Tuskegee Institute in Alabama.

By the time she turned 18, Rector was worth an estimated $1 million, or about $11 million today. She also owned stocks and bonds, a boarding house, a bakery and restaurant in Muskogee, Oklahoma, and 2,000 acres of land. She eventually left Tuskegee with her family and moved to Kansas City, Missouri, where she bought a grand home that still stands today. “There, the Rectors eventually moved into a home that was a far cry from that weather-whipped two-room cabin in which Sarah began life. This home-place was a stately stone house. It became known as the Rector Mansion,” Bolden told the New York Amsterdam News.

In 1922, she married Kenneth Campbell, the second African American to own an auto dealership. The couple had three sons and were recognized as local royalty, driving expensive cars and entertaining elites like Joe Louis, Duke Ellington, and Count Basie at their home.

They divorced in 1930 and Rector remarried in 1934.

Rector’s lost most of her wealth during The Great Depression. When she died at age 65 on July 22, 1967, she only had some working oil wells and real estate holdings.

Power Couples in Design By Elle Gibson

Editor-In-Chief Celeste Alexander Art Director Amanda Chapman

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Administrator Aleathea Thornhill Nursery Rhymes

By Celeste Alexander

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A Designers Touch

By Monica Watson Vaughn

Editorial Contributors Elle Gibson Monica Watson-Vaughn Jamalla Wallace Shana Rivers Alonia Jones Ola Broom Tarsha McCrae Send submissions to curatedquarter1@gmail.com Partnership inquiries call 770-310-7793

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For customer service, change of address or subscription inquiries visit www.curatedquartersmag.com Travel & Lifestyle

By Rhonda E. Peterson

Cover Interior Designer Tiffany Brooks Interiors

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Keep it Declutter

By Jamala Wallace

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59 Show House Show Off

By Celeste Alexander

The perfect mix of Color

Color can be intimidating for many homeowners. Help from an expert is just a phone call away. An expert designer will work with you to establish your color palette for your entire home to create that perfect blend. One way to mix color is by using art as an inspiration and infuse your space with colors found in the art. Here we see Interior Designer Rhonnika Clifton is an expert at mixing color perfectly. To learn more about Rhonnika log on to www.rjcliftondesigns.com

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Editors Page

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ne thing that stands true is the power of love and its ability to conquer the most insurmountable odds, no matter the circumstances, and when I think about the color of love, black always come to mind. I’m talking about the power of black love. The kind of love that understands you, your struggles, your hopes and desires. Seeing black couples debunk the stereotypes portrayed in media brings joy and a triumphant feeling that reflects the whole culture.

I’m dedicating this note to my husband, Stephen, along with all the other power couples who work and play together. Stephen is the strongest, sweetest and most handsome man and truly my soulmate. He’s given me unending support, especially in the early days of my design career.

He’s been the delivery man, the electrician. the plumber and whatever else I need to get the project done. I salute all the team playing designer husbands who make their wives shine, and most time without personal financial gain. We further salute these designing couples who work together day in and out and successfully manage their love, teamwork, togetherness, respect, harmony, balance, dedication, wisdom and joy. smile,

Celeste Alexander @curatedquartersmag @celestealexanderinteriors

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Power Couples In Design

Donte + Tiffany Brooks

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Team Work

iffany Brooks is known throughout Television land as a celebrity design star on HGTV. Aspiring African American designers know her as a keynote speaker, A mentor and our Shero! Designers of color are more confident when they see designers that look like them achieving success. Inspiration of this type awakens their passion to new possibilities. It allows them to believe they too, can transcend their own experiences and talents beyond existing constraints and limitations, which facilitates progress toward higher goals.

Standing by the side of this powerhouse designer is her dynamic husband Donte. Donte has been Tiffany’s right hand and a major component of her design team. Design husbands are not only special, but they are extremely important especially for behind the scene moments. We salute them for all the love and support they give in this highly demanding business of making dreams come true. Together Donte, Tiffany and their son, Ayden know the meaning of teamwork.

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Dedicated to the vision of educating the next generation of creatives starting at the most critical level of kindergarten to foster and nurture the creative thought process and abilities. Opening in Fall 2019 The Community Academy for Architecture and Design.

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he mission of TCAAD is to expose students to architecture and design in a learner-centered environment, which promotes creativity, critical thinking, and develops community conscious leaders.

The ultimate vision of TCAAD is to partner with communities to develop thriving children and sustainable neighborhoods using architecture and design-thinking as a conduit for positive innergenerational transformation.

History

DEDICATION TARIQ & Tiffany ABDULLAH 10

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In 2005, Tariq Abdullah, one of the founders of TCAAD, created an architecture workshop series, for students in grades K-12, aimed at exposing them to architecture and design. The workshop won an award from the American Architecture Foundation and named The World Peace House “A program of national distinction”. Tariq then developed an after-school and a high school architecture curriculum. After experiencing

successes in Michigan and Georgia including workshops with DeKalb County Libraries, Tariq and his wife Tiffany received requests from parents to develop the program further by integrating more school subjects such as math, science, and reading due to the student’s level of interest and excitement.

After five years of holding workshops, internships and design fellowships at Tarchitects LLC, their architecture firm, the culmination of all of these instruments designed to expose students to architecture as a viable career, grew into the desire and platform for a charter school.

Tiffany Green-Abdullah was the co-founder of the Minnesota chapter of the Black Alliance for Educational Options (BAEO) and a consultant, project manager and educational planner for 21st-century schools. She has brought her experience in core educational programming to bear in the development of the vision and mission of TCAAD. www.tcaad.org to support or enroll.

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Togetherness

James & Monica Vaughn

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www.housewarmingdirect.com

he Vaughn’s have been married for 21 years but have worked together professionally for the past 26 years. He is a seasoned entrepreneur and consultant in the Engineering field leading in Computer Aided Design (CAD) since the early 1990’s. She has been an interior designer and Principal at Housewarming Direct located in Dallas Texas for 17 years. Both James and Monica have a love for design-his automotive, architecture, civil, medical and Aerospace-hers residential and commercial Interiors. Together they make a cohesive team working to support each other’s businesses and other endeavors.

James and Monica’s design appeals overlap in their businesses seamlessly. James is instrumental in providing computer design layouts and 3D renderings for

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Monica’s clients. He has been her biggest supporter since Housewarming Direct inception working not only on CAD renderings but also as installer on some residential and commercial projects.

Their partnership continued to expand in their community efforts. Together they developed GET-IT; a STEM training program with a goal to positively impact underserved children in Dallas Texas. The program is designed to educate and bring hands on exploration in technology to communities where these programs do not exist. Children are exposed to robotics, computer coding, 3D design and printing.

The couple have four children of their own Julian, Jade, Mylin and Makenzie who keep them very busy, yet they do it together.

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JOI

Al & Dereky Martin We genuinely love each other and honestly love being together. “We can be isolated on an island all by ourselves and be ok!”

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his power couple with 224k plus follower on Instagram give us plenty to be joyful about and we can’t get enough of them. According to Dereky the reality is working together in business 24/7 can be both very rewarding as well as challenging. The key is really knowing which role to play (i.e., head of household vs head of project) Sometimes we step into each other’s sand boxes and bring two dominating personalities. A contractor husband and a designer wife a match made in designer heaven, Al shows up with the hammer And Dereky walks in with the Chanel pumps to finish the job. Sometimes, we can honestly get on each other’s nerves and need to step away for a breather, but at the end of the day, the project always turns out great.

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SOULFUL Byran & Jeanine

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phroChic became a place for Jeanine, a former policy attorney, and Bryan, a Ph.D. candidate, to escape the stresses of work and share their passion for culture and design.

To embody their personal vision of a new kind of design the two coined the phrase, “Modern.Soulful.Style.”

– interior design that embraces culture and the unique mixture of the traditional and the contemporary that helps to define us all.

AphroChic has been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, Elle Decor, House Beautiful, and Better Homes and Gardens, among others. Jeanine and Bryan have been featured on Good Morning America and News One Now with Roland Martin. The interior design

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firm is listed among New York’s top interior design firms by New York Magazine.

Jeanine and Bryan are leading experts in home decor, regularly producing content for The Spruce, HGTV, Refinery29, Apartment Therapy and MOYI Magazine.

The two also produce activations for global brands, most recently as IKEA Brand Ambassadörs.

Jeanine and Bryan are the authors of REMIX: Decorating with Culture, Objects and Soul, published by Penguin Random House. In 2017, they produced HGTV’s Sneak Peek With AphroChic, a house tour series exclusively for HGTV’s Facebook Live channel. The two reside in Brooklyn, New York. www.aphrochic.com

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WISDOM

Charles & Alecia Johnson

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earl Design Interiors is an award-winning full-service luxury boutique interior design firm based in Katy Texas.

Pearl Design Interiors specialize in creating stunning residential and commercial spaces that exceed client’s expectations. They are known for designing custom clean-lined contemporary spaces where transition meets modern. They infuse complementary accessories in every design to create an elegant, unique, and timeless space.

As a company, they are proud that of one of their Montage Beverly Hills Projects was used by Modern Luxury Magazine for a photo shoot with Emmy nominated and Golden Globe awardwinning actress Taraji P Henson. In 2015, 2016, and 2017 Peal Design Interiors was named Top 20 African American Interior Designers in the country by the Black Interior Design Network.

They were also named Top 20 Houston Interior Designer by Fresh home and Top 10 Houston Interior Designer by Decoriila. Wisdom is what puts you at the top of the design game. www.pearldesigninteriors.com

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HARMONY

GEORGE & SHAYNAEH

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n entrepreneur at heart, George brings you more than 15 years of construction experience. Shaynaeh has a Bachelor of Administration degree in Marketing as well as a Masters of Business Administration degree and she has also completed a variety of Interior Design courses, which has helped cultivate her expertise in this area. Her love and appreciation for all the beautiful things life has to offer is evident in her design aesthetic as she uses fresh combinations of texture, pattern and color to create beautiful, high end interiors. By paying attention to every detail, Shaynaeh is able to meticulously transform a client’s design vision into a reality. How harmoniously they build together dreams for others. Located in Columbia SC. Check out their website for more information. www.gsconstructdesign.com

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RESPECT

NIYA & Aniska

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he has since a strong nature-inspired aesthetic, which compliments her minimalist and modern sensibility. Efficiency is an important part of her designs and process, having been heavily influenced by a waste-not upbringing by her Guyanese mom.

Born in England to Jamaican and Guyanese parents, and raised in New York City, Niya not only brings an interesting worldly style to Ishka Designs but promotes efficiency and clean, modern aesthetic. www.ishkadesigns.com

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essie & Octavia give us courage to believe in our dreams as a couple they started Christal Clear Designs about 4 years ago and have become one of the hottest designing couples in Houston.

They booth left their day jobs and never looked back. Their fearless use of color and creativity has caused them to have a waiting list of clients. To learn more about this courageous designing duo with over 95k Instagram follower join them on Instagram @christalcleardeigns

COURAGE

Jessie & Octavia Christal www.christalcleardesigns.com

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NURSERY RHYMES Hey Black Child Do You Know Who You Are

OUR ANCESTORS WOULD BE SO PROUD TO SEE HOW THE NEW GENERATION OF BABIES ARE BEING WELCOMED INTO THIS WORLD. THE FOLLOWING PAGES SHOW HOW THE LIFE OF A BLACK CHILD HAS CHANGED DRAMATICALLY. THIS 19TH CENTURY SLAVE CRADLE MAY HAVE BEEN WHEELED TO THE FIELDS SO THE MOTHER COULD LOOK OVER HER BABY WHILE WORKING. 1800-1861 slave made baby cradle online for $80,0000.00 curatedquartersmag.com

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You’ve Come a Long Way Baby

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Baa Baa black sheep have you any wool yessss....

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e are just over the moon to see the following nurseries that were created to welcome our bundle of joys to their new homes. These joyful rooms are richly designed with color and texture which is sure to stimulate and excite their little hearts. Today’s nursery is a far cry from that of a decade ago. Designers are using unique color palettes and materials not typically associated with a nursery.

The must-haves in today’s nurseries is not only a modern crib but also secondary sleeping space for the caregiver’s comfort.

A night light or dimmer is essential to avoid stumbling around at 2 am. In the morning.

A comfy chair or rocker soothes everybody along with a basket close by with all your necessities to avoid getting up and down.

Creating backdrops that easily go from nursery to toddler safety zones are what designers are also focusing on when it comes to decorating.

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A Modern Nursery

www.mickelwelch.com curatedquartersmag.com

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SOPHICTICATED BABY

www.nwdinteriors.com WHO SAYS LUXURY IS NOT FOR BABIES? NOT Jamaican native, Nicole White who is deeply inspired by the bold colors and textures of the Caribbean, and constantly fuses those elements throughout her designs.

For this lux nursery the Clients wanted a warm inviting space they could relish in with their bundle of joy.

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A heart felt space after 6 disappointing tries.....

BY TIFFANY MEGGINSON

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e are bless to have Seven, this is my 8 month old sons nursery.

His name is Seven. Gods number, number of completion The seven on the jerseys (Kapernick is our fave), seven on ottoman, seven on the Mattel book, etc. also black and orange is my husband favorite colors. They are a reminder of his grandfathers 88 Monte Carlo. This style was only made in black and orange or white and orange. The geometric wallpaper just so happen to fit our style and of course I loved the fact that it was peel and stick and could be easily removed if need be. The painting is hand painted by myself and was a homage to Kaynes dropout bear but was painted as an owl which is also my husbands favorite animal. Of course the room.

Was also meant to be as visually stimulating for Seven as well. There’s a lot for him to focus on and when he wakes up in the morning, we watch him on the camera standing in his crib, looking at all the shapes and colors in his space.

www.elaboratedesignsbytm.com

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HUSH LITTLE BABY DONT YOU CRY...…….

www.creativereflectionsdesign.com

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harmeia Shell, the owner of Creative Reflections, started the business with a vision to offer affordable design services to her clients. With a background in financial management and information technology we understand the financial impact of our services and work with our clients to achieve the home of their dreams.

We believe in our customer’s experience and their joy in seeing a transformed space. Charmeia has an exceptionally unique style and is amazing at delivering unique, fresh and inspiring spaces.

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momma’s gonna sing you a lullaby curatedquartersmag.com

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The Family That Plays Together Stays Together!!!

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LONDON BRIDGES FALLING DOWN FALLING DOWN MY FAIR LADY...

LONDON BASED DESIGNER

Medina King

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www.mkkidsinteriors.com

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NOW I LAY ME DOWN TO SLEEP...

after an adventure oh what a peaceful resting place to dream

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B is for Boys & Blue Boys deserve a well-arranged space too, by using various shades of blue in a room creates interest and denotes a young gentleman lives here.

By The Sisters and Company of Decorating Den Interiors

When transitioning from a toddler space to “A big boy room� splashes of color and bold patterns can make a child feel safe and secure in this fun space

By Jacqueline Snow of Ball & Jacks Designs

A Colorful Focal Point

www.indigopruitt.com

“A shared space splashed with poppies make the best place to share secrets with your sister�.

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A room for Brooklyn A fun collaboration with AphroChic, IKEA, and Behr paint to create a kid’s room. The focus of the space was to create a “big girl” room for our daughter. We wanted to create a space that was fun and functional. There are storage drawers under the bed, extra baskets, and a toy chest in the room. I also wanted to create a space that would grow with her, so I created an eclectic wall gallery of art from Minted and other resources that could be re-used and reconfigured as she grows up. I also framed some of Brooklyn’s artwork in the space. Overall, Brooklyn wanted a room that was pink, and I think we achieved that and then some in the space. www.AngelaBelt.com

Photographer: Chinasa Cooper

Mark A. Hill AIA, NOMA, NCARB Founding Partner | Director of Architecture

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ark Hill has been practicing Architecture for over 30 years and in late 2015 co-founded the firm Studio H Architecture Planning Environments (SHAPE) with offices being developed in NYC and Atlanta, GA. Prior to forming SHAPE, Mr. Hill was part of the Senior Management Team for the design of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) on the National Mall in Washington DC. He was responsible for the management and oversight of the 4 Architect group Freelon Adjaye Bond/SmithGroup along with 30 other firms composed of Engineers, Designers and Specialty consultants. Prior to NMAAHC Mr. Hill was with the prominent New York firm Gwathmey Siegel & Associates Architects for 13 years where he held an officer position and was the Associate-in-Charge of several award-winning projects. There he had the opportunity to collaborate with Charles Gwathmey and Robert Siegel on several museums, libraries, medical facilities as well as high-end private residences. Before Joining GSAA, Mr. Hill was with the renowned New York firm I.M.Pei + Partners which later became Pei Cobb Freed + Partners where he collaborated on several award winning cultural and institutional projects and first met his co-founding partner Herman Howard.

Mr. Hill is experienced in the application of bringing Art and Architecture together in a unique composition. He has a broad range of experience and the expertise necessary to create and manage high quality buildings and award winning designs. Mr. Hill is a native of New York City and in addition to his passion for Architecture is also passionate about giving back to the children of his community. He has been teaching children moral virtues for over 30 years and has co-directed summer programs to reach out to children who have been abused, abandoned and/or neglected.

Education: Bachelor of Architecture, Cornell University College of Architecture Art and Planning Project management, New York University

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H.H. Howard, NOMA Founding Partner | Director of Planning and Urban Design

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erman Howard has had the pleasure of designing projects and built works at the scale of Master Planning, Urban Design, Architecture and Interior’s for well over 30 years. In late 2015 he co-founded the firm Studio H Architecture Planning Environments - SHAPE with offices being developed in NYC and Atlanta, GA . Prior to forming SHAPE Mr. Howard had the opportunity to be a part of the design teams and leadership of some of the leading firms across the nation and the world. Early in his career he was a part of the design teams with KPF (Kohn Pedersen Fox) and SOM (Skidmore Owings and Merrill). Some of the later positions and projects (after Graduate School) included the firm of Pei Cobb Freed & Partners (formerly known as I. M. Pei). During this time period 1989 - 1995, Herman Howard was also involved in the early efforts of the discovery of the African Burial Ground of Lower Manhattan, which later became a National Historic Treasure. It was also during this time that he met Mr. Mark Hill. While at HOK from 2005 - 2011 as a VP & Regional Practice Leader. The last firm that Herman Howard was a part of before starting SHAPE was KAI-Design + Build where he was the Director of Planning + Urban Design and headed up their Atlanta office.

Herman Howard has also had the pleasure of teaching Design studio at GA Tech College of Architecture for 14 years where his studio has won numerous design awards.

www.studiohshape.com

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licensed in over 10 states

MEET ARCHITECT MONICA FENDERSON

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onica Fenderson, AIA, NCARB, LEED GA is a practicing architect in Grayson, Georgia and is the Founder and President of MOSA Design Studios, LLC. Found in 2009, MOSA Design is a design firm that specializes in commercial, interior, and sustainable design. From its initial beginnings, the firm has expanded to sustainable architecture and real estate development in the United States and in Latin America. Monica’s work and experience represents a small but growing group of nearly 500 licensed African American female architects across the United States. Not only is she a licensed architect, but also a licensed real estate agent through Miller Realty and a Partner in F&F General Construction.

Before jump starting her own practice, she was a Building Plans Examiner in Gwinnett County for 11 years. Monica also worked with renowned architecture firms on many multi-million dollar projects such as the Atlanta City Courts, Atlanta Public Schools Office, Dekalb County Juvenile Courts, and Flight Safety Atlanta. Today as a firm owner and practicing architect, Monica produces designs for commercial, residential, retail, educational, healthcare, and showcase spaces. Some of her most recent project completions include The Bailey Wine Cellar for Real Housewives of Atlanta cast member Cynthia Bailey, The Halal Guys of Midtown, and The Premier Storage Units of Buford, Georgia. Each project seeks to empower clients through knowledge sharing and guidance through the design and real estate process. MOSA Design Studios considers itself an educator and connector of best design practices and access to invaluable resources to guide the design and real estate processes.

Monica’s primary involvement is the day-to-day of her firm; however, it is not abnormal to find Monica deeply involved in her surrounding community. MOSA is a Silver Sponsor of the Atlanta Chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) and often gives back to emerging professionals of her Alma Mater, Tuskegee University.

MOSA provides architectural internships for high school students in the Georgia area and participates in programs for young girls such as the “I can be an architect” program. She participated in the Gwinnett Neighborhood Leadership Institute, the local American Institute of Architects’ Architecture Youth Fair, and occasionally speaks at local Universities to share professional development strategies with students. Due to her growing practice and community involvement, Monica was nominated for the 2017 Atlanta Business League’s Super Tuesday Creative business Award category.

Monica believes that giving back to the community is instrumental to the future growth and development of our built environment. MOSA represents the next generation of entrepreneurs and influencers that are working hard to shape the world through the clients it serves and growing opportunities for small business start ups. curatedquartersmag.com

A DESIGNERS TOUCH MONICA Vaughn

For me, green is my favorite color to introduce in Spring and Summer.

I feel as if I am truly bringing the outdoors- in. I prefer adding green pillows and throw blankets to a neutral palette and allows the green to speak volumes. Greens complimented with coral and yellow floral arrangements make for a beautiful room-scape.

Summer is a time to step out of your comfort zone and explore colors. Add a pop of coral, fuchsia, orange, greens, blues or yellows, to any dĂŠcor and your room has instance personality! Color in its very nature, can transform a room from boring to welcoming, dramatic and or serene. Try mixing colors in kid spaces to create a happy place, to kitchens to create flavor, to living rooms to add elegance and comfort, and even in bathrooms to add tranquility. Imagine how quickly color changes the mood in the room.

WWW.HOUSEWARMINGDIRECT.COM

SUMMER HUES

DESIGNER TIP In addition to pillows, throws and flower arrangements, adding rugs, drapery, artwork, and other accessories. Now your room has instant personality and splashes of color without committing. For a more powerful impact, try accenting a wall in a paint color, tile or wallpaper that will create a nice backdrop to an already styled room.

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Noma Atlanta President Ashley Hernandez with Celeste Alexander

shley Hernandez of IHG Corporate along with NOMAtlanta’s immediate past presidents – Sophia Tarkhan of Cooper Carry - The Center for Connective Architecture - The Center for Connective Architecture and Marc Johnson of Fitzgerald Collaborative Group, LLC – are all outstanding architects in leadership roles within their own right at their own companies. NOMAtlanta members have had influential roles in some of Atlanta’s greatest and most iconic architectural structures to date – like the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, the MercedesBenz Stadium and more, were all present at the 2019 NSPIRE Awards.

1st Place: Center for Civil and Human Rights by Marc Johnson

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2019 NSPIRE Awards

Ayanna George viewing Curated Quarters for the first time

Woman of the Year: Nicole Hilton, founding partner and design architect of Cole Hil, Service to the Profession: Cheryl McAfee, CEO and principal for McAfee3 Architects

Cheryl McAfee and Guest

Curated Quarters magazine was so excited to see the black excellence that dominated the room, over 18 awards were given in several categories and for various achievments including a lifetime Achievment to Mr Oscar Harris, FAIA

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Mr. Oscar Harris, FAIA

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CURATE & DECORATE try a decal vinyl wall art self adhesive Perfect Ballerina 15” x 13” $52.99 wayfair.com

WWW.DONTSLEEPINTERIORS.COM

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$129.99 African Woman Table www.midnightvelvet.com

@REFLEKTIONSDESIGN

TABITHA BROWN on ETSY

@Shoppebaus curatedquartersmag.com

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Lydell Martin

Picture Perfect

By Alonia Jones

“Never let anybody tell you what you can’t do. Don’t be afraid to create. Who’s to say what you cannot do?”

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hese are the ever-lasting mother-to-son words spoken into the life of what would later become one of America’s most gifted artistes, Lydell Martin. His signature pieces, which are rich with vibrant colors and diverse in bedazzled accents, have given personality to vases, plates and other inimitable items that have been received by an array of dignitaries and celebrities to include but not be limited to Tyler Perry, Aretha Franklin, 2 Chainz and even President Barack Obama.

These are major accomplishments for a self-taught artist who has been honing his craft since the tender age of 10. Martin learned early on, after moving to Atlanta from Macon, Georgia that he would need to grab hold of something he could do well so that his gift could be nurtured.

“My move to Atlanta put me in the company of other kids who were already focused on the things they knew how to do,” Lydell reflects. “For me, I knew I could draw. Even at the young age of 10, teachers were coming to me for my drawings.”

As Lydell grew older, he learned to enhance his skills set by incorporating the use of the computer. He and his wife, Cepada, of 38 years (as of August 2019) started their art and design studio designing one of a kind awards for corporations. His first big break came in 1996 when he was asked to paint the recipients for the Trumpet Awards Foundation, which included Harry Belafonte, Tiger Woods, and Attorney Johnnie Cochran, amongst others. He also had the opportunity to have his vases merchandised at 450 J.C. Penney stores throughout the country.

Lydell’s unique style has brought him much acclaim. Some of his commissions include The Trumpet Awards Foundation, Arista Records, The National Conference of Black Mayors, V-103 FM, American Red Cross, 100 Black Men and Spelman College. He has achieved international acclaim when he was selected to represent the United States at the International Conference of Mayors in Africa. His most recent achievement is that of being selected by the City of College Park to create a super heros series. To learn more about Lydell visit: www.lydellmartin.com

REAL ESTATE TIPS WITH SHANA

2. Location Many people move to be closer to family, friends, and work. Imagine how much more time you could reclaim if you were closer to people and places that matter most ? You are not a tree, MOVE!!! Create a better life for yourself.

When you’re upgrading, Better is the new bigger... 5 Common reasons to upgrade your home!

You deserve to be in the best living situation possible and sometimes that may require an upgrade. A better standard of living for your specific situation. We all work hard and deserve to be in the best situation. Here are 5 common reasons upgrades are necessary...

1.Size is Big At one point your current home may have been perfect for you, but now, not so much. Maybe the number of family members living in the home has changed.

If your first home was a 3 bedroom home with no children, fast forward 10 years to 2 -3 children and now have a few of them, you may feel like you need more space, or you have a 5 bedroom home and two of your children may be adults that have no intention on moving back in.

Both situations need an upgrade. Better may be getting a home with more or less space depending on your needs.

3. Financial Growth Maybe you are tired of repairs, yard work, or simply just want to pull the equity out of your home, get your upgrade. Use half of that cash towards a down payment on a new place, and save the other half to invest or save.

If you’ve already considered selling or simply want to know how much your home could sell for, email me for a free home analysis to shana.rivers@ palmerhouseproperties.com

4.Time to buy If you’re renting, you may be ready to invest in yourself and become your own landlord. It is always a good time to buy when you are in the right financial position. Buying a home, big or small is always better!

5. Feeling Blah Maybe you’re in a home that’s not sparking joy anymore, Upgrade!

Schedule an appointment with an amazing interior designer. They can help you create a home that you will love to come home to. You may just need to refresh the color pallet or rearrange some things around. Either way you deserve to live your best life... but better!

If you fit into any of these categories, make the necessary upgrades to better your life. If you wait you may regret it.

Until next time live your better life!

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Gentrification Defined

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quidneck Island officially Rhode Island, nestled in the Narragansett Bay. On the southside of the Island lays the town of Newport nicknamed playground for the rich and yet there are many who are unable to afford housing. Growing up in the 70’s was a bustling lifestyle for the African American the community revolved around the Martin Luther King Center a local community center that was incorporated in 1922, historically operated by a African American Director with programs to empower the black community and served generations of black people since.

Today the center is directed and

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staffed by European Americans.

The MLK Center now represents the economic shift, cultural shift and neighborhood that has changed its face. With a million of dollars in the budget to give handouts via the food pantry and resource referrals is a far cry from the center I grew up in and acquired many creative skills that have assisted me in my career down to this day.

I return home every two years for our bi-annual citywide reunion, I’m in awe of the old neighborhood that is not there anymore culturally, socially or emotionally. Quite often I’m greeted with stares instead of smiles of welcome, looks that gesture what are

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you doing here and not good to see you again. I look back with disdain blurting out I was raised here. Gentrification happens in small towns quietly, gently and its trifling. My family purchased the brand new around 1971 and it was my family home for 47 years. A gigantic part of my personal history has been erased, once my childhood home recently sold and was gutted for a wealthy white family to move in. My grandkids now have the privilege of walking by the newly remodeled house with me relaying a story of historical importance, starting with your great grandmother use to live here and it’s where I was raised. I’ve watched Atlanta go through and continue be

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influx of middle-class or affluent people and that often results in the displacement of earlier, usually poorer residents. Gentrification, no matter how you definite it, is changing the face of many areas in every region of the country and generating social consequences that would have seemed far-fetched just a few years ago.

GENTRIFICATION The black youth of the West End Atlanta where will home be in 2025?

gentrified, since I have lived here the past 23 years.

Here are several ways that gentrification has been defined and expressed by various sources, but not limited to the following definitions.

1. Higher income people relocate and invest in lower income neighborhoods, historically disinvested by public and private sector that raise the property values and change the cultural structure of the neighborhood; to capitalize off the low income properties in doing so they Inflate property values and displace low income people which fundamentally changes the culture character of the neighborhood.

2. When people with money start fixing up poor neighborhoods, that’s gentrification. Sounds great, except it usually means the poor residents can’t afford to live there anymore and have to move.

3. Gentrification is a general term for the arrival of wealthier people in an existing urban district, a related increase in rents and property values, and changes in the district’s character and culture. The term is often used negatively, suggesting the displacement of poor communities by rich outsiders.

4. THE URBAN DICTIONARY: define gentrification as when “urban renewal” of lower class neighborhoods with condos attracts yuppie tenants, driving up rents and driving out long time, lower income residents. It often begins with influxes of local artists looking for a cheap place to live, giving the neighborhood a bohemian flair. This hip reputation attracts yuppies who want to live in such an atmosphere, driving out the lower income artists and lower income residents, often ethnic/ racial minorities, changing the social character of the neighborhood. It also involves the “yuppification” of local businesses; shops catering to yuppie tastes like sushi resaturants, Starbucks, etc... come to replace local businesses displaced by higher rents.

6.WIKIPEDIA: Gentrification is a process of renovating deteriorated urban neighborhoods by means of the influx of more affluent residents. This is a common and controversial topic in politics and in urban planning.

Gentrification can improve the material quality of a neighborhood, while also potentially forcing relocation of current, established residents and businesses, causing them to move from a gentrified area, seeking lower cost housing and stores.

Gentrification often shifts a neighborhood’s racial/ ethnic composition and average household income by developing new, more expensive housing, businesses and improved resources. Conversations about gentrification have evolved, as many in the social-scientific community have questioned the negative connotations associated with the word gentrification. One example is that gentrification can lead to community displacement for lower-income families in gentrifying neighborhoods, as property values and rental costs rise; however, every neighborhood faces unique challenges, and reasons for displacement vary.

The gentrification process is typically the result of increasing attraction to an area by people with higher incomes spilling over from neighboring cities, towns, or neighborhoods. Further steps are increased investments in a community and the related infrastructure by real estate development businesses, local government, or community activists and resulting economic development, increased attraction of business, and lower crime rates. In addition to these potential benefits, gentrification can lead to population migration and displacement. However, some view the fear of displacement, which is dominating the debate about gentrification, as hindering discussion about genuine progressive approaches to distribute the benefits of urban redevelopment strategies.

5. Merriam-Webster : the process of repairing and rebuilding homes and businesses in a deteriorating area (such as an urban neighborhood) accompanied by an The Wrens Nest - preserving white history while black history disapears

Colors of Cape Town

BY ELLE GIBSON

Mountain PIxelaping

E

arlier this year I had the opportunity to visit South Africa and experience firsthand the magic of Cape Town, affectionately called the Mother City. If Cape Town is on your list of places to visit - GO! It is gloriously beautiful at every turn with the mountains, the coastline and the city’s architecture as your backdrop. Cape Town is rich in culture but not a cultural melting pot, allowing you to have Dutch, British and African cultural experiences through your stay.

Visiting Cape Town is both a historic and humbling experience because of it’s shameful past of apartheid it has acknowledged and is trying to reconcile.

But most importantly for me visiting Cape Town is a moving experience filled with emotion, pride, joy and even pain because the places you will see, the history you will walk, and the people you will meet will leave a profound mark on your heart. In fact, I am so moved by my experience in Cape Town and traveling throughout South Africa that I have decided to take a group of African American women with me on my next journey to the Mother City.

Here’s a sample of what you can experience on a visit to Cape Town.

BoKaap is a neighborhood in Cape Town known for its colorful houses. You will find a fusion of Indian, East Asian and African food, music and religion in this historic

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township, also known as the Malay Quarters. In order to protect BoKaap neighborhood from gentrification it has been designated a national preservation site in Cape Town.

V & A Waterfront Market - You can shop to your hearts content and bring home authentic African ceramics, textiles, fashion, jewelry and crafts while supporting African artisans and businesses at the V & A Waterfront Mart. It’s also the gateway to visit Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned as well as many political prisoners throughout the dark apartheid period.

District Six Museum - Pre-apartheid District Six was a vibrant, peaceful neighborhood of mixed race people.

In the 1970’s more than 60,000 black residents of District Six were forcibly removed and their homes destroyed by the apartheid regime. Why, because the white residents of Cape Town were uncomfortable with them living in the heart of the city close to them and they didn’t want to see them. The District Six Museum chronicles the heartbreaking story of what happened.

So, If you have been thinking about going on a trip of a lifetime to South Africa - reach out to me so you can learn about the tour coming up in 2021. To learn more about Elle visit: elle@ellegibson.com curatedquartersmag.com

Shopping in Downtown Cape Town

District Six Museum

curatedquartersmag.com BoKaap Neighborhood

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What’s the “E”

E

-Design is the newest of service added to the roster of services provided by the interior design community, it stands for electronic design. E-Design is the affordable way to traditional interior design. Communication is done via email. By simply sending photos of your room, your pintrest dream boards and a few measurements the Designer takes care of the rest.

Five Benefits of E-Design

1 This service is affordable and cost effctive 2 You hold the credit card so you can buy at your own pace 3 Working out of state is a face time away with your favorite designer in a different state that you love 4 mood boards allow you to try it before you buy it . A new wall color, a sofa or a funky fabric on your drapes.

5 A visual mood board allows you to see how it will all come together no wasting cash on guessing.

Follow Brittany Green @hmgrl_interiors for more E-Design information

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Banakayi loves cultural vibes

www.banakayi.com curatedquartersmag.com

Some designers are inspired by fashion and they can create a room based on your favorite outfit or fashion designer.

Let your favorite things inspire you create a well arranged home. What inspires you when it comes to your home dĂŠcor choices?

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IN SEARCH of PURA VIDA TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE RHONDA E PETERSON

Four Seasons Resort in Costa Rica

Planet Hollywood Beach Resort

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You’ve had a pretty hectic year and now it’s time to plan a getaway to relax, recharge, and renew.

The weather is warm, so quite naturally you’re thinking of tropical destinations of celestial skies, cerulean waters, and argentine sandy beaches as far as the eye can see. I have a breathtaking destination for you and your family.

Costa Rica is just the place where you will find your pura vida or what the locals embrace as the simple life or pure life.

Located in Central America, Costa Rica boasts tropical rain forests, animal sanctuaries, beautiful waterfalls, the majestic Arenal Volcano, and so much more.

The private Peninsula Papagayo in the Guanacaste Region is one of the most beautiful places in the world.

It offers eleven miles of coastline, eight miles of bluffs, and thirteen miles of trails. Being surrounded by water has its culinary benefits, as the seafood will be fresh throughout the peninsula. From personal experience, the ceviche at Ostra at the Andaz Resort is my favorite.

Come to think of it, the chicken wings at Chao Pascao, also at the Andaz Resort, are not to be missed.

Trust! I digress… @rhondaepeterson

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The Simple Life

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BY RHONDA PETERSON

here are a number of luxury resorts who have made creating the pura vida experience for guests their top priority. All of the resorts offer customized itineraries to ensure guests can relax, as well as enjoy the many adventures of the peninsula’s natural playground. Whether you have a penchant for water sports, such as paddle boarding, snorkeling, and surfing; or prefer to remain on land hiking the many trails and exploring by way of epic eco-adventures (I highly recommend the Diamante Eco Adventure Park); it’s all available to you in this magical paradise. Oh how I hope you will be so lucky to encounter the white-faced monkeys high in the trees as they eat and people watch; while the toucans allow you to eavesdrop on one of their conversations.

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Pin & Proper

BY Rhonda E. Peterson

The Atlanta Beltline’s New Pub Experience

1039 Grant St SE Suite D10 Atlanta, Ga 30315 Phone: (404) 549-7948 email: info@pinproper.com website: pinproper.com Instagram: @pinproperatl 50

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S

ummer is upon us and there is nothing we love more than flavorful food, savory drinks, and new experiences. Pin & Proper, one of Atlanta’s newest restaurants, is serving up plenty, peppered with a whole lot of fun in an indoor gaming and entertainment venue.

Located in the Beacon Atlanta Development, right off the beltline in historic Grant Park, the eatery has become a favorite in the community and amongst its patrons. Pin & Proper introduces Atlanta to a fun concept of a new millennial pub meets “Pinfall”, a football-bowling hybrid where you will lose yourself in the amusement of the game; and it may even bring out the competitor in you.

The menu at Pin and Proper is elevated pub fare conceived by the owners Lauren and Chaise Hughes in collaboration with chef Lindsay Owens, who sources fresh produce from local farms to create shareable plates, flat breads, sliders, sandwiches, and more. If you’re like me and never cared very much for brussel sprouts, I highly recommend theirs, as they have become one of the menu favorites.

Liquid chef, Rob Floyd, who is often sought after by brands such as Pepsi, Google, and Red Bull designed and created the restaurants tastebud tantalizing beverages; which features artisanal cocktails, wines by the glass, and craft and local beers.

Former Atlanta resident, Chaise Hughes and his wife Lauren, knew they wanted to move closer to family as they planned to expand from party of two, to party of three (or more); but before pulling up stakes in Michigan and making the trek south, they began the arduous task of research and planning for Pin & Proper with the consulting firm of Taffer Dynamics. With the assistance of Atlanta interior designer, Marsha Hughes, principal and owner at Marsha B. Interiors (and mother of Chaise), they successfully designed an entertainment eatery that exudes a fresh and modern vibe in an environment where guests can gather to catch up, eat, drink, and be merry. Oh, and play a high energy round of pinfall!

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ECLECTIC HOME Timeless Interiors ~ Unique Gifts ~ Design Consulting

Senior Designer CASI FRANCIS ST. JULIAN 8211 Oak Street New Orleans, LA 70118 504.866.6654 www.ecelectichome.net 52

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Leslie is More Leslie Carter of Opulent Professional Organizing shares two major easy to follow secrets that will have you enjoying more relaxation once you tackle these areas in your home

1. Living Room

Your home’s living room is its relaxation zone.

Oftentimes, we have the tendency to let things pile up in our living areas, without giving them a proper storage solution. The best way to maximize space and decrease clutter in this area is to invest in furniture that provides built-in storage. This will give you 2-in-1 furniture usage. Such pieces include storage ottomans, lift-top coffee tables, sofas with built-in storage, and end tables with drawers. Any of these items will allow you to store toys, game systems, books, and magazines so that they are easy to access while keeping your space clutterfree. There are lots of stylish furniture options to choose from to give you the look and storage that will make your living room fabulously organized.

2. Office

An office is a place where you want to maximize time and productivity. Being well-organized in this area is the key to a successful work day. If you do not have a system in place from the start of your office set-up, paperwork can become one of the most daunting tasks to tackle. The best tool to get started with office organization is a quality label maker, which will allow you to professionally and accurately label file folders and storage boxes for various types of important paperwork.

Do you want to learn more organization and dĂŠcor techniques? To download your free copy of the 7 secrets to a fabulously organized home guide (full version), please visit us at www.opulentorganizing.com.

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Haute Couture COAT CLOSET

Get Started by completely emptying the space and give it a good scrub down. Purge the unnecessary items. (Is it broken, irreparable, too small, shabby?) Be ruthless! Toss, sell or donate anything that no longer captivates you. Store sentimental items until you’re ready to either part with them, or incorporate them into your home’s design.Devise a system for organizing your items. Return your items to their proper place. Let us know if you try this we would love to see you get couture.

BEFORE

Ola Broom @jadoreledecor

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Arlene Williams

Professional Oraganizer, Founder

@bonafideorganizing

6 Tips To Decluttering and Keeping Spaces Organized

BY ARLENE WILLIAMS

Try these ideas to Decluttering and Keeping Organized 1. Set a Date and Commit: Procrastination is a killer to getting spaces organized.

2. Have A Budget: Determine what you can afford to spend on storage containers, organizing products or furniture and stick to the budget.

3. What’s Your Vision for the Space: How would you envision the space in the end besides it being clean and organized. For instance, you’ve been using a spare room as storage but now wish for it to be used as an office, craft room or multipurpose room.

4. Start Small: Choose a small pile of papers on a desk, a junk drawer or one shelf in a kitchen or hall closet to start decluttering. Starting in small amounts is less overwhelming.

5. Sort Items: To avoid the space getting a little messy throughout the decluttering process, have recycle bags, trash bags and bins ready. Sort in four categories: KEEP, TRASH, RECYCLE and DONATE. 6. Maintain: Now that your spaces are cleared and organized, don’t let all that hard work go to waste.

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MEET CURATOR MARTINA DODD

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urated Quarters Magazine attended the “Black Interiors,” an exploration of the Black aesthetic and psyche through artistic renderings of the home and stylized representations of the human form.

Martina Dodd is an Atlanta based art historian and curator. Her concept driven shows have touched on topics relating to race, gender and power dynamics. Including her most recent exhibition at Clark Atlanta University Art Museum entitled, Black Interiors, an exploration of the Black aesthetic and psyche through artistic renderings of the home and stylized representations of the human form.

Dodd holds a MA in the Arts of Africa, Oceania and the Americas from the University of East Anglia and a BA in Anthropology and International Studies from Johns Hopkins University. She is currently the Museum Education Curator at the Robert W. Woodruff Library, Atlanta University Center and a founding editor of DIRT, an online independent platform and resource for accessible critical arts discourse within the DC, Maryland and Virginia (DMV) area.

She has presented research, spoken on panels and curated exhibitions at the Urban Institute of Contemporary Art, Clark Atlanta University Art Museum, American Studies Association, Prince George’s African American Museum and Cultural center, DC Arts Center, Transformer, Flux Factory and Common Field Convening. She has published articles, exhibition reviews, and catalogue essays with DIRT, BmoreArts, Common Field’s Field Perspectives and Morton Fine Art. www.martinadodd.com 56

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Joi Pearson Brian

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A Romantic Explosion of Color

April Page Vogt | 225.803.4930 | www.aprilvogtinteriors.com curatedquartersmag.com

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The Color Purple W

hen I searched the color purple I kept getting hits for the movie and play so this took some time Purple is a color between blue and red. It is often associated with rarity, royalty, magic, mystery, and piety.

Purple in darker shades gives a room depth. It’s associated with luxury and is great as an accent color for any space. In lighter hues such as lilac, it can promote calmness in the same way blue does. When combined with pink it’s more feminine and seductive.

Dark purple interiors impart a dramatic and subdued look for home décor that definitely is not boring.

We see purple all around us from nature giving us much needed spring vibes to entertainment to the hotel industry. Of course, a lot of shared our affinity for the color since it symbolized one of the most iconic performers in our lifetime.

Purple pairs nicely with lighter shades of the hue such as lilac and I personally love it with just the right shade of blue. Because I love glam chic I’ve paired it with navy blue and white in accent furniture and accessories.

To have even more fun and an even bolder look mix in a couple of patterns such as animal print and florals.

I love both of these patterns and it shows off some of my character in this updated office space.

So maybe since I’ve grown more regal, older, and wiser it may have caused my increased appreciation for this misunderstood color. So how will you use purple in your next home project?

@catch_decor Tarsha McCrae works with busy professionals in the DMV who want to fill their homes with character, love and style.

Catch Décor provides full-service decorating, DIY consulting, home staging and income property design services.

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Show House Show Off

Tiffany Brooks Interiors Chicago 847-586-7484 Our Summer cover is the work of Tiffany Brooks, one of the talented top 20 African American Interior Designers in the nation. You probably know her from HGTV Design Star of the HGTV Smart Home Givaway. We know a different side of Tiffany the funny down to earth,always willing to share with young designers that becon of light and hope of success.

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BOLD INTERIOR DESIGNS TAMMY C. BOLDEN Allied ASID, Associate IIDA 973.220.6240

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ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES NEEDED WE ARE LOOKING FOR EXPERIENCED MOTIVATED SALES PROFESSIONALS INTERESTED IN EARNING HIGH COMMISIONS FOR YOUR VALUED WORK, WE TARGET THE INTERIOR DESIGN INDUSTRY

ADVERTISE IN THE ONLY INTERIOR DESIGN MAGAZINE FOR HOMES OF COLOR AND DIVERSITY “LET ONE OF OUR MEDIA SALES EXECUTIVES PUT TOGETHER A PACKAGE FOR YOU” CURATEDQUARTERS1@GMAIL.COM 770-310-7793 OR 678-598-1749

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salon bella dama

@headofthehouseinteriors

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Chanel & Monique 216-965-8082

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LET US BRING OUR SHOWROOM TO YOU! SCHEDULE YOUR FREE INSTALLATION OR INTERIOR DESIGN CONSULTATION WITH US TODAY!! 404-217-2800

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