OBSIDIAN EXPERIENCE
BLACK ARTISTS AND DESIGNERS GUILD

OBSIDIAN is a virtual concept house launched by the Black Artists + Designers Guild in January 2021. It represents the organization’s inaugural initiative, designed to invite new conversations about the space of home as a place of thriving for one million Black families. Guided by the belief that Black futures are equitable, sustainable, and liberatory, we have created a virtual space that manifests our collective imaginings.

ASID 2022 Design Innovation Award Recipient.

Veranda | Metropolis | Cover | Elle Decoration UK | Designers Today | California Home + Design | Aspire Metro | Design Milk | Houzz

laura hodges | Harmony Room
Mural “The Harmony of Conversation”, glenyse thompson

Watch Laura speak about The Harmony Room, click on the image.

Designer: Laura Hodges of Laura Hodges Studio

“The Dining Room is a vibrant space where family and friends gather to share a culinary experience together. The concept is centered around a large mural inspired by BADG artist, Glenyse Thompson. Thompson’s mural, which is based on one of her smaller works, sets the tone for the space and is both bold and graceful at once. A custom-designed dining table in white oak with a white-painted geometric base plays with both form and shape while anchoring the room’s open space. I designed the freestanding, built-in benches to encourage communal gathering, with vegan cork leather upholstery and ebonized reclaimed oak seats. The form of the custom-designed counter stools was inspired by the shape of stacked African necklaces, while the low seating could be tucked away to allow for an unobstructed view of the landscape.

This room is a multi-use space that serves varying needs throughout the day and supports the family’s evolving lifestyle. The design will showcase the importance of community and shared cultural experience while incorporating a healthy and sustainable environment.”

Cheryl Umbles | The Barka Dai
panel Artwork, “black is a color” and main entry art, “Aurora”, glenyse thompson

Watch Cheryl speak about the creation of The Welcome Room, click on the image above.

SHERYL MCLEAN | THE SHAMAN’S CHAMBER
Artwork, “everyone has to choose a side”, Glenyse Thompson

Watch Sheryl speak about the creation of The Shaman’s Chamber, click on the image above.