For This Chicago-Based Designer, Creating Authentic Spaces Is Key

Acknowledging the contribution of Black interior designers to the design and decor spaces is crucial to moving forward and giving all voices, regardless of their backgrounds, the space to be heard. We’re highlighting talented Black interior designers who are thriving in the industry today.

Marissa Nelums, founder and principal designer of Glasshouse Interiors, always knew that she would live a life that was led by, consisted of, or imagined by design in one way or another. With a road that started in fashion and ended up in interior design, Nelums is a force in the design community of Chicago.

What made you decide that being a designer was your calling?

 I've always desired to add beauty and enhancement to people's lives, initially through fashion; it wasn't until I made my way to Chicago for fashion, working several years in the retail industry as a visual stylist and manager, that I was introduced to the concept of creating a well-designed environment.  

My love for interiors grew after I decorated my first apartment and posted pictures on social media, only to have the pictures stolen by a design firm and used as clickbait, this act only inspired me to grow. While researching and developing what would soon become the introduction and birth of Glasshouse Interior, I started to study and find designers that looked like me—despite there not being many—and decided to reach out and collaborate with them toward mentorship. 

I realized that interior design was my calling once the firm began to skyrocket; I went from having rooms in my portfolio that were essentially freebies for my friends and family, to having paid clients who were willing to invest in me, as a form of investment for their home. Another impactful time that led me to my calling was when I did a child's room makeover that actually brought two young girls to tears of joy.

How would you describe your style and approach to designing spaces?

My approach to designing spaces is essentially designing a room like an outfit. I use fashion and the history of fashion to inspire my point of view as a designer. I like to think of space as a mannequin of some sort. I can start with a dress that's akin to a sofa, shoes akin to a rug, a handbag akin to decor, etc. I consider all of the components that would allow the space to come together like a completed puzzle.  

I also like to incorporate the core of who my client is based on where they've been, where they are, and where they'd like to see themselves in the future. 

I enjoy creating spaces that generate conversation, inspire, and support comfort.

Do you have any design inspiration, whether it be from your culture, other cultures, or anything else in between?

I think a lot of my design inspiration comes from fashion. My love for beautiful garments and accessories coincides with the beautiful and luxurious materials that make up my portfolio every day.  

I am also inspired by my different travels throughout the world, primarily high-end luxury resorts. I also like to gather design inspiration from my team, we have open forums and discussions on a daily basis that lead to expanded intellectual and creative perspectives and abilities.

What’s a design project that you’ve done that’s stuck with you throughout your career?

Throughout the beginning of my career, I did a project in lower-income housing that stuck with me for the remainder of my career. It was that humble space and client who was willing to take us on in an area that would typically be void of design curation in order to build a portfolio that would go on to inspire throughout my career. 

A second experience I was able to benefit from was a project in Marco Island, Fla. that I was able to design from the ground up, valued at over $10 million. It was selecting all of the finishes and furnishings for the space that allowed me to flourish in my abilities as a designer because I was given an unlimited budget and the flexibility to create what I saw fit for my clients and their family 

What's your favorite design project?

My store is my favorite design project. To start my career in department stores and be blessed enough to have the resources to establish my own storefront in the heart of the city, near the very expressway that connected me from my hometown to the city that I would make my home; it's been one of the greatest accomplishments that I've been met with.

I was able to really hone in on the essence of what Glasshouse is and what we offer and showcase some of the very products that we use in some of our projects, all in one space.

What does it mean to you to be Black in your industry?

Being Black in my industry is a trailblazing honor, the population of Black designers in our industry is less than 5%. I feel a deep obligation to bring awareness to other Black creatives through an example of business and creative excellence. Black designers matter.

What’s your favorite part of your own home?

My bed.  I work hard, I have an eight-year-old daughter and our favorite thing to do is watch movies and cuddle in my bed. It's my safe space, my peaceful place, and a place where I can be my ultimate self.

What’s one thing you try to incorporate in every space you design?

Our signature pillow karate chop is something I've been doing for over eight years now and has become a staple in each and every one of our design projects. It serves as a stamp of approval.