Black History Month: Reflections

In 1990, the up-and-coming Andrea Hysmith was a rarity in the industry where she sought to make a mark. She was essentially unprecedented, known to fellow designers as “the Black girl.” 

Regardless of precedent, Andrea carved a path in the world of design. Rather than conforming to existing standards of an industry that had never heard her voice, she made her own rules, gaining experience not only in design, but in the relevant realms of hospitality and business development. Since launching ASH Interiors in 1999, Andrea has delivered luxury, accessible kitchen, bath, and interior spaces, shared her knowledge with designers and entrepreneurs, and opened the first Black, female owned brick-and-mortar store in her hometown of Ellicott, Maryland.

Though she makes it look easy, Andrea’s journey hasn’t always been smooth. When she pursued a highly-recognized interior design certification, the National Council for Interior Design Qualification did not deem her education at a historically Black college as accredited. With few Black role models or mentors within the industry, Andrea has tackled the variables that limit Black designers virtually alone. Andrea’s goal was to be a role model and create her own path, which is exactly what she has done.

Even thirty years after Andrea entered the design world, only 2% of designers are Black, according to Zippia - a devastating statistic for the multi billion dollar industry.

“I wish there were more people of color in my space,” Andrea says.

But though she is one of the first, she is hardly the last. Andrea has high hopes for emerging Black designers and dreams of collaborating with the BIPOC design community to generate fellowship and promotion. Moreover, as a speaker on design, Andrea wants to impact a new generation, being for young, tenacious artists of color the example and mentor she never had.

This Black History Month, Andrea reflects on twenty years of experience in design and looks towards a bright future.