Jecks is an eclectic interior designer and a mother of two, who set up Persona Abode Interiors to specialise in designing eco-conscious residential interiors. The focus of her business is to design for everyone regardless of their socioeconomic status and support world causes.
Her appreciation of interior design comes from the experiences of being terrified to step into her own home. Having endured occurrences of domestic violence, through the eyes of a child and also as an adult, she understands how the sanctuary of home crumbles when you no longer feel safe in the environment that you live. Understanding that this loss alters how you feel about yourself, and how you interact with the world, Jecks creates our most personal environments that we inhabit as a way of uplifting the individual.
Having come from a long background in building conservation and recycling management, Jecks is not swayed by just aesthetics. Architecture and the environment are important to her creativity. She is unimpressed by the idea of consumer trends, as it doesn't sit well with carving out your true design style or design experience. Rather than being sucked into the vortex of designing client’s home for the sake of fashion, Jecks concentrates on providing a sensory experience that benefits their well-being, whilst also honouring the planet.
Believing that the profession of Interior Design should be held accountable for its participation of unethical practices, Jecks pursued studies in vegan design, becoming a “certified cruelty” free designer in 2017. She is one of the first UK designers to do so, and will use this knowledge to pass on to clients and fellow designers.
Jecks is passionate about making design accessible to all. There’s a notion that interior design is a mere luxury for the rich and this idea comes at the exclusion of the majority of the population. Everyone wants a home for shelter or to be able to navigate through spaces without losing their dignity. Therefore, Jecks is always on the look out for independent companies that contribute to strengthening its local economy, businesses with a strong ethical stance as well as those who care about the pools of communities
Nanny of the Maroons
Jamaican National Hero, was a well-known, 18th-century leader of the Jamaican Maroons. Much of what is known about her comes from oral history, as little textual evidence exists. She was born into the Asante people in what is today Ghana, and escaped from slavery after being transported to Jamaica.
What Does Black History Month Mean To You This Year?
Black history Month is in October in the UK, rather than February. However, the recent roar for equality has amplified the aim of getting recognition for the work and talents within the Black community. So I see Black History Month as a valuable instrument for change.
For me, it’s an opportunity to learn about the diversities of the Black experience, and build up positive perspectives to pass on to future generations. Passing on that knowledge is really important to me and fuels my desire to create.
Where Are You Finding Inspiration To Design This Year?
I’m greatly intrigued by our interaction with the planet, so it’s a given that nature continues to be one of my strongest influences. I’ve a mad fascination with reigniting our connection to the outside world through rituals, cultural practices, and sound right now.
To Learn More About Jecks Visit:
- Website: personaabodeinteriors.com
- Instagram: personaabode
- Pinterest: Persona Abode
- Facebook: Jecks Lea
- Twitter: Persona Abode