Designing Miami - Checks All The Boxes
Finally, a design show that’s realistic! This may catch some by surprise, but there aren’t many design shows I can stomach to watch. They are either unrealistic, I don’t care for the design aesthetic shiplap side eye, or not relatable. Designing Miami on Netflix checked all the boxes for me. What stood out to me are the relatable stories. The Owner and Lead Designer, Eilyn Jimenez, is a minority and she built her firm to be the representation she wants to see. Sound familiar/looks familiar? That alone I gave her five starts! One of the reasons I am in design and so passionate about my craft is to bring representation to the forefront of interior design. It is important for us to see ourselves in the avenues we wish to access. It was something I wish I had growing up and something I vow to make my mission within my own firm.
For anyone new around these parts I started in events with an interior design degree, because I saw a woman that looked like me killing the game in events, not interior design. I didn’t see or know of any interior design firms that showed the work and craftsmanship of a minority woman. Representation is so important!
To hear her teams individual stories on how when they were matriculating through school, teachers and fellow classmates didn’t think they were good enough to be designers. TUH! Now they are on TV showing those same non believers along with the world—look at me now!
On a personal note, I love that she is standing her ground on not having kids until she’s good and ready! I could stand up and give her a standing ovation for that too. We are all told to get married, buy the house, and fill it with kids. WHYYYYYYYYY — if that’s your choice and story great but, if that is not your choice and story that’s great too!!! There is no wrong way or right way for this. Currently, it’s a hard no for me. LAWI is my current kid and she’s passed the terrible twos. People tell you to have kids, but don’t allow the space for you to evaluate what that means for you personally. Just like buying a house, but not explain HOA fees, maintenance, and TAXES!
I’m just happy Netflix isn’t scared to go out the box. I love how they are finding minorities and brining them and their stories to the forefront. I hope in my own time I’m able to shed light on my own story and firm. I’m so proud of my team and completely overjoyed that we are continuing to grow. I can’t wait for our first office, and I can’t wait to see how we’ll make our mark in the world of design. If not anything else, I want to be the firm that shows representation for Black Designers and curate a space where they can grow and learn.
Thank you for your time and if you haven’t already, check out Designing Miami on Netflix! Let me know in the comments what you think.
