Welcome to the IBI podcast, beaming in conversations from the galaxy of Black genius. Today, we explore the mind of Brigette Romanek, one of LA’s foremost Interior designers. As the founder of Romanek Design Studio, some of her notable clients include Gwyneth Paltrow, Madonna, Demi Moore, and even the queen herself, Beyonce. (a fact we can neither confirm nor deny). Known for her “Livable Luxe” Gucci meets Gap aesthetic, Brigette's illustrious career affirms the power and value of the black feminine gaze, and that space is indeed the place. 

Our conversation today is full of gems, like simple, affordable tips on sprucing up your space, and discovering your design aesthetic, to more existential questions about what it looks like to refuse the expectations of others, and how to know when it’s time to move on. 

Connect with us on Twitter and Instagram @blackimagination, subscribe to our newsletter for updates, and support the show by clicking this support link. and explore more content on blackimagination.com. And here we go… space agency, with Brigette Romanek.

Key Links

Paulette McWilliams- American Jazz Singer 

Mark Romanek- American filmmaker and photographer

Harvey Nichols - British luxury department store chain

Romanek Design Studio- Interior designer in Los Angeles, California

Carpenters Workshop Gallery - a contemporary art gallery, focused on redefining the boundaries between art, sculpture, and design.

The Future Perfect - a leading platform for collectible contemporary design that curates' unique pieces from global designers.

What to Read

Livable Luxe - Brigette Romanek

Iconic Home: Interiors, Advice, and Stories from 50 Amazing Black Designers - Black Interior Designers Inc, June Reese 

The New Bohemians: Cool and Collected Homes - Justina Blakeney

Wild Interiors: Beautiful Plants in Beautiful Spaces- Hilton Carter

What to listen to

Mellow Madness - Quincy Jones, Paulette McWilliams

Live Recording in Amsterdam (Album) - Paulette McWilliams & The Beets Brothers

Work It - Missy Elliott

It's Your Thing - The Isley Brothers

Respect - Aretha Franklin

Who to follow

W: https://romanekdesignstudio.com/ 

IG: Brigette Romanek (@brigetteromanek)

FB: Brigette Romanek

This conversation was recorded on February 01, 2024.

Host Dario Calmese 

Producer:  K.T. Thompson

Visual Art Direction and Designs: River Wildmen

Director of Digital Content: Vicky Garcia

Production Asst:  Noa Lesche

Original Music composed by Adam Radice

Sound Engineer:  Adam Radice

Visit us at blackimagination.com 

Watch other episodes on YouTube at The Institute of Black Imagination.