In honor of Black History Month this February, Redecor is thrilled to be partnering with the multi-faceted & ultra-creative HGTV host & interior designer Mary Tjon-Joe-Pin.
Mary started her work in design part-time (while also working as a flight attendant), helping her husband, Jon Pierre with home staging and interior design. Her keen eye for detail and natural sense of style made her work stand out.
She was quickly recognized as an asset for designing homes that sold faster because of their tasteful and sophisticated staging and overall design. As their family business grew, Mary took a leap of faith, left her role as a flight attendant, and took on full responsibility for the staging and design portion of Harper Raine Homes, LLC. As the company’s full-time designer, Mary offers private consultations for design and home staging services as well as continues to partner with Jon Pierre on mutual projects.
Mary is also well-known for hosting HGTV’s fabulous series Going for Sold and Two Steps Home alongside her husband.
We had the pleasure of speaking with Mary and are excited to share her answers to some of the things we were eager to learn. She opened up about her life, interior design, Black History month, and what drives and inspires her to create.
Let’s dive in!
Hi Mary! We’d love to get to know you better. How did you start your journey in interior design?
My journey in interior design started when I became involved in our home investment business. I was tasked with creating designs that could appeal to everyone, and I loved the challenge of finding unique and cost-effective ways to enhance homes and add value.
We’re thrilled to collaborate with you, especially during Black History Month. What does this month mean to you?
Black History Month is a celebration of those who paved the way for dreamers like me. They made sacrifices and fought for equality so that I have equal opportunities to pursue my dreams. This collaboration highlights individuals who look like me and will inspire the next generation of designers to dream even bigger.
Can you tell us about a project that has been particularly meaningful to you as a woman of color in the interior design industry?
Every project I work on gives me the chance to represent my culture, where I come from, and those who came before me. Each design I create tells a unique story, history, and future through my eyes, so they are all meaningful to me.
Can you talk about any challenges you’ve faced as a woman of color in the industry and how you’ve overcome them?
Finding my own voice and design style that feels authentic was a challenge for me. I overcame this by staying true to my vision and persevering through uncertainty, which helped me build my confidence and take risks that paid off.
How would you describe your design style and where do you find inspiration?
My design style is inspired by the art, history, and architecture I grew up with in Louisiana. I would describe it as a big bowl of gumbo- fluid with bold elements, a dash of flair, and modern twists that highlight character in each space.
What are some of your favorite design trends right now?
Some of my favorite design trends right now are mixed metals, wood accents, and earthy elements.
How do you think new design trends in interior design are established?
I believe new design trends are established when creators take risks and think creatively.
What decor item can you not live without?
I cannot live without throw pillows! They’re like the icing on the cake and come in so many different styles.
Can you share any tips or advice for Redecorators who want to redecorate their spaces but don’t know how to start?
Always trust your instincts and don’t be afraid to mix things up. If you need a place to start, choose the space where you spend the most time. Focus on how you want the space to feel, rather than just how it will look, and it will guide you in making decisions that will create a space that lifts you up.
