We recently had the chance to connect with Nayoka Simone and have shared our conversation below.
Nayoka, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Lately, I’ve been finding so much joy in traveling the world. Exploring new cultures, environments, and lifestyles has been incredibly inspiring—not just personally, but professionally. I’ve recently traveled to the Caribbean, Japan, and even explored some beautiful places right here in the U.S. Each destination has offered something unique that influences how I see and design spaces. From the serenity and intentionality of Japan to the vibrant culture of the Caribbean, and the charm found in different parts of the States—these experiences have shaped the way I approach my own home and how I create for my clients. Travel always gives me a fresh perspective and new motivation. But more than anything, it’s the act of exploring and cultivating new experiences that truly brings me joy.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Nayoka Simone, and I’m the founder and lead designer of NyRai Interior Designs. I’m an interior designer, author, and production designer for a film production company all roles that allow me to tell powerful stories through space, visuals, and emotion. What began as a leap of faith into the interior design world with no formal training has now grown into a deeply fulfilling career rooted in creativity, transformation, and purpose.
NyRai Interior Designs is a full-service interior design firm known for curating intentional, elevated spaces that reflect my clients’ identities, lifestyles, and visions. I design from the inside out focusing not just on how a space looks, but how it feels and functions. My work is known for its bold elegance, thoughtful layering, and ability to blend comfort with sophistication, whether I’m designing a luxury home, a commercial space, or a set for film and television.
What sets me apart is the depth of perspective I bring. As a creative, I wear many hats authoring stories, designing for the screen, and speaking on stages which all pour back into my work as a designer. I’ve had the honor of being featured in Ebony Essence, Better Homes, Shout Out Atlanta, and The Elephant Journal, as well as a billboard in Times Square. I’m also a recipient of the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award and an IKEA DMV Influencer, which have both been such affirming milestones in my journey.
At the heart of everything I do is a deep passion for transformation—whether it’s a space, a story, or a life.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
That person was my friend the one who gave me my very first opportunity to design a home. At the time, I was just stepping into the world of interior design with no formal background, just a passion and a vision. She saw something in me that I hadn’t fully embraced in myself yet. She trusted me wholeheartedly to make her space beautiful, and that level of belief, especially in the beginning, meant everything.
She didn’t just see me as someone who liked design she saw me as a designer, as someone capable of building something real in this industry. Her faith in my creativity and capability gave me the confidence to move forward, and I’ll always be grateful that she saw the version of me I was still becoming.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Absolutely more than once, to be honest. There have been several moments throughout this journey where giving up felt like the easier option. Whether it was the financial strain, the emotional toll, the self-doubt, or the unpredictability that comes with being both an entrepreneur and a creative, the challenges were realand at times, overwhelming.
This industry, like entrepreneurship as a whole, will test you. It will stretch you in ways you didn’t expect and make you question if you’re truly built for it. But the one thing I’ve learned is that you have to push through the pain. You have to keep going, even when it’s uncomfortable or unclear. Perseverance isn’t just a trait it’s a requirement. And every time I chose to keep going, I grew stronger, wiser, and more aligned with my purpose. Quitting was never the real option. Growth was.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Is the public version of you the real you?
Absolutely. What you see is who I am authentic, intentional, and grounded. I don’t feel the need to put on a mask or pretend to be someone I’m not. I show up fully as myself in every space, and I’m 100% comfortable with the way I move in the world. How people choose to perceive me is ultimately up to them, and whether or not that fits into their lifestyle or expectations that’s their discernment to make. At the end of the day, I stand firmly in who I am, and I genuinely love every part of that.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
First and foremost, I live life in my own lane I mind my business, drink my water, travel the world, and truly enjoy the moments that matter most. I love spending time with my family, especially my two beautiful daughters, and creating memories that mean everything to me.
When I’m no longer here, I want people to remember me as someone who showed up. Someone who was present, supportive, and genuine. I want to be remembered as a woman who poured into others with positive energy, who spoke life into people, and who made a real impact not just through words, but through action.
Through interior design, I didn’t just change homes I changed lives. I want people to say, “She made me feel seen. She inspired me. She left every space, and every person, better than she found them.”
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.nayokasimone.com
- Instagram: @nayokasimone
- Linkedin: Nayoka Simone
- Facebook: NyRai Interior Designs
Image Credits
The first 4 photos MW Concepts
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
