Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Keyara Clardy. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Keyara, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
In architecture and interior design, it is very rare for a black woman to be in this industry. Once we are in this industry, not many of us are in spaces or opportunities where our individuality and uniqueness are able to shine through our work. We have a unique perspective when it comes to design because many spaces are not designed for us or by us and to live in a world that doesn’t take you into account truly makes a difference. I have brought this perspective into my design process and always take into consideration the cultures, religions and lifestyles of those I design for and who they will become in the future. When spaces are truly designed for functionality and take into account the daily practices that one has, it makes life easier and that is what success looks like to me. In addition to this, it is a phrase in our culture that we have to work twice as hard to get half of what others have and so I do this in my career, and I let nothing stop me or get in my way.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I am a young business woman who simply wants to follow her dreams. I firmly believe that every desire and aspiration you have is a message from the divine, and it’s sent to you because you’re capable of it and it’ll be your journey if you let it be. I put my all into my designs, my company, my service. I want nothing more than to cater to those who need help in their spaces and can gain from a professional creative such as myself. I started my design group at 23 years old. Given that, many people overlook me because they feel I don’t have enough experience or am simply too young to have accomplished something this major. But I’m not too young and I am more than capable and more than skilled enough to prosper in every situation and project that comes my way.
Our firm is a full-service interior design firm. We can create anything from new-build designs to renovations to interior styling. We currently specialize in the luxury residential and hospitality industries. We find that it is so important and exciting to create personalized spaces for our clients that feel welcoming and well planned to all who enter. It’s so special to meet so many different people around the country who all have different stories and backgrounds. We build connections and relationships with our clients who eventually feel like family to us. We’ve recently won a Houzz award for “2023 Best of Service” and it makes us feel so great to know that all the due-diligence and care we offer to our clients in the service was recognized. It encourages us to continue to not only create thought provoking designs but also show attentiveness and kindness in the process to all that we come in contact with!
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
The three qualities that most impacted me in my journey are my slow-developed resilience, my love for my craft and communication skills that allow me to understand those who I come across. These three qualities that I’ve acquired through the span of my life allows me to be a better designer and a better business owner. For those who are early in their journey, whatever that may be or may look like: please know, anything that is for you is already yours. Your hard work and perseverance can do nothing but pay off for your benefit. In the meantime, it can be beneficial to learn more about yourself and what truly works for you, so that when things do start to take off and clients or business do start to come your way, you don’t have to go through the process of finding yourself or your values.
As far as areas of knowledge, one thing that has completely altered the way that I craft designs, interior designs only or not, is my knowledge of architecture. Many interior designers don’t believe that they need knowledge of or experience in architecture, but it allows you as a designer to have more of a complete understanding of the projects that come your way. If you aren’t going this route the advice I have to you is never let someone else’s self doubt and discouragement become yours. If someone says they don’t think you can accomplish something, it’s because they don’t believe they can accomplish it. Keep going, it may just be your purpose to show someone you can accomplish these things. While your journey may not be easy, it’s rewarding if you have the right mindset.
Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?
The ideal client for the company right now is someone who values the people and companies that they work with. These people have projects that they hold value in and care about immensely. The time of both the companies and contractors they work with are valued and respected. We are overall open to all clients of all projects, styles, backgrounds, beliefs and cultures. In fact, we prefer diversity in our clients and projects. We just ask from our clients that the respect and care we offer is reciprocated and if we have that, we have all we need to create the space of their dreams!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.clardydesigngroup.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clardydesigngroup/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keyara-clardy/
