In the House: Celebrating America's Leading Black Interior Designers

A vibrant and inspiring celebration of America's leading Black interior designers

In the House is a groundbreaking showcase of the talent, vision, determination, and impact of today's leading Black interior designers. With gorgeous photography, compelling profiles, and vivid narratives spotlighting signature projects, this book offers an intimate look into the work and inspiration of 33 trailblazing designers, including Brigette Romanek, Tiffany Brooks, Elliott Barnes, Ishka Designs, Forbes Masters, Beth Diana Smith, Keita Turner, Laura Hodges, Justina Blakeney, Leyden Lewis, Rayman Boozer, and many more.

Featuring designers working in an extensive variety of styles and aesthetics, In the House spotlights the breadth and collective brilliance of Black interior designers in one volume. These creatives are redefining style, forging new paths within the industry, and setting new standards in residential spaces across the country and around the world.

Author Alton LaDay's introduction draws on his extensive interviews to explore the Black experience in interior design, honoring pioneers such as Cecil Hayes (the first Black designer to be featured in Architectural Digest, in 1997, and included on the AD 100 list, in 2000) and examining how far the field has come - and where it's headed.

Perfect for design enthusiasts and professionals alike, In the House is more than a visual feast; it's a powerful testament to the creative impact of today's Black interior designers, and a source of inspiration for the next generation of talent.

Author: Alton Laday
Publisher: Monacelli Press
Published: 07/01/2026
Pages: 256
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 3.60lbs
Size: 11.20h x 9.30w x 1.10d
ISBN: 9781580937306

About the Author
Alton LaDay is the founder and principal of Alton LaDay Media, a dynamic public relations and consulting agency working within the creative industries. A native Texan, LaDay began his career in Houston, where he was Marketing Director for the Decorative Center Houston. In 2004 he founded Alton LaDay Media, and in 2009 he joined the popular lifestyle television program Wild About Houston, producing and hosting the hot trends segment, "The A! List." LaDay is also a cofounder of the design destination event Texas Design Week, which is held annually in Houston and Dallas.

LaDay has served on numerous boards and committees and has been active with the Museum of Fine Art Houston's African American Art Advisory Association (Five A), American Society of Interior Designers Industry Partners (ASID-IP), Fashion Group International, HRC Federal Club, National Association of Black Journalists, and the Public Relations Society of America.

LaDay lives in San Diego and represents clients across the United States.