AD’s Acclaimed Guest Editors Reflect on the Intersection of Home and Black Culture

“Design has the power to tell stories and celebrate culture in ways that resonate deeply,” Wayne says. “To shape a more inclusive and representative narrative of Black culture, design must highlight its diversity, richness, and innovation. This means honoring traditional influences while embracing contemporary expressions—creating spaces and products that reflect authentic experiences.”

“I’m a fan of Brigette Romanek and how effortlessly she blends pieces from different periods and styles. I especially admire her thoughtful use of materiality and how she integrates art from Black artists into her spaces, creating environments that feel both elevated and deeply personal. I’m also a fan and friend of designer and artist Mark Grattan. His craftsmanship is unmatched, and I love how he plays with materials, color, and texture in his design work and furniture. One of my favorite pieces of his is the Hermanx auxiliary table—it’s a perfect example of his bold yet refined approach to design.”

“My home is my sanctuary—a space where I can fully be myself and feel grounded in tradition while staying inspired. Each piece in my home tells a story of where I’ve been and where I’m headed.”

Aurora James

While AD cover star Aurora James consistently transforms the world of fashion through her luxury lifestyle and accessories line, Brother Vellies, the 15 Percent Pledge founder is just as well versed in home and retail. She not only works with diverse designers and artisans across the globe, but she also amplifies them through her nonprofit work that calls for retailers to reserve at least 15% of their shelf space for Black-owned businesses.

Photo: Ford Blitzer

“My father was Ghanaian and my mother was adopted at birth with no background on her ancestry,” James says. “As such, she raised me with a really open mind to all cultures, embracing the idea that any of them could actually be our own.”

“Continuing to showcase Black homes, Black art, Black design traditions and artisanal work is a really wonderful way to broaden everyone’s understanding of the depth of Black culture.”

“My home feels like a safe space, but also a space alive with community. Even when I’m not here, there is usually someone else [staying] here. Every corner of it feels alive, whether it’s with plant life, hummingbirds outside, the continual rush of water through the fountains, the giving of the model in Mickalene Thomas’s work, my dogs. It’s a space where life happens.”

Leyden Lewis

AD100 designer Leyden Lewis’s work spans residential, commercial, and real estate design. For him, home represents rest, nourishment, and a place to recharge for himself and his loved ones. This informs his work, as well as his passion for modern storytelling through the art and the history of design.