#28TM: Danielle Colding

Danielle Colding was born in New York City and is principal of her own firm, danielle colding design, inc. She has made consistent appearances on television and has been featured in multiple media outlets internationally.  Danielle has worked on many high profile projects from home interiors to commercial spaces. She works closely with charities such as The Ronald McDonald House and DIFFA.
 
With a degree from Stanford University in cultural anthropology and African American studies, Danielle also has an associate’s degree in interior design from the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandise in Los Angeles. After several years working with other prestigious New York firms, she formed her eponymous firm in 2006. An avid traveler, Danielle’s roving eye, and love of different cultures, informs each of her projects.

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Reference photo below) My favorite author James Baldwin; his works shaped my college experiences when I first really leaned about African American history in depth. His ability to speak to our collective experience with such wisdom and beauty was always inspiring. It is a tremendous comfort to me that he has come back to the forefront during this truly challenging time. It feels like kismet that I Am Not Your Negro has been released this year.

 

James Arthur Baldwin (August 2, 1924 – December 1, 1987) was an American novelist, essayist, playwright, poet, and social critic.

James Arthur Baldwin (August 2, 1924 – December 1, 1987) was an American novelist, essayist, playwright, poet, and social critic.

What Does Black History Month Mean To You This Year?

Black history month has always been a time for reflection for me. It has also largely been a time to connect with my peoples and go to some great events celebrating our culture. This year, however, it has taken on a whole new meaning. Given the current climate, celebrating black history month feels like a political act. It feels like protest; it feels like affirmation; and it feels like pride. This year I am reflecting on our collective history in a new way. I am looking at it from the perspective of reliving many of the challenges our ancestors faced. So I am taking this Black History Month to go back. I am taking time to reread texts, to revisit art, and to remind myself that we are a people who know struggle and who know triumph. This year our past is in our present more then ever. We are part of this historical continuum. And I, for one, am looking to the wisdom of the past for guidance. 

Where Are You Finding Inspiration Today To Design This Year?

This year, I too am finding creative inspiration in looking backwards. I am feeling inspired by design that evokes a sense of history. I am over trends and am not particularly interested in what's new. I want to go back. I am in the market for things with grit and soul. Right now new and shiny look garish and inauthentic. I am on the hunt for items of substance and objects that tell stories. And as always, I am filling in any blanks with travel.

To Learn More About Danielle Visit: