This story is found in our May/June 2025 issue. Subscribe to the magazine here.
When some people think of New Orleans, they imagine cobblestone streets filled with music, the sounds of laughter and the scent of delicious food wafting through the air. Others envision colorful homes with character, delicate wallpaper in eateries and gorgeous cultural art on display. Whitney Jones, interior designer and New Orleans native, sees all that and then some. Through her business, Whitney J Décor, she designs globally inspired homes for clients who seek to elevate their space in the city, and outside of it too.
Her studio delivers stunning, functional living quarters, filled with creations that celebrate individuality—incorporating vibrant shades and bold prints, and pairing unexpected materials that pull all the elements together. The inspiration for her spirited tapestry can be found all around her beloved Crescent City. Jones attributes that eclecticism to Black folks. “From the soulful music that pours out of every corner, to the incredible food that’s a true melting pot of flavors, to the breathtaking art and architecture, it’s undeniable: Everything that makes New Orleans so special is rooted in the contributions and culture of Black people,” she says. “New Orleans is a living testament to our enduring legacy.”
Jones was born in New Orleans proper but grew up on the Westbank, a 20-minute drive across the river from downtown. She credits the city’s style for the way she designs. In fact, she says, it has infused the way many other interior designers conceive spaces.
“New Orleans is more than just a city to me,” she explains. “It’s a feeling, a way of life. I love the sense of community, the celebration of culture and the resilience of our people. It has contributed significantly to the world of interior design, by showcasing a unique blend of European, Caribbean and African influences—think wrought-iron balconies, lush courtyards, vibrant color palettes, and a mix of antique and modern furnishings. This style, born from the city’s rich history, has inspired designers globally to create spaces that tell a story. It’s about creating an atmosphere, a mood—not just a pretty room.”
New Orleans, to Jones, is a feast for the senses and a living mood board. “Bold colors are everywhere you look—in the historic architecture, the lively festivals, even the everyday fashion of the people,” she notes. “New Orleanians are fearless in expressing themselves, and I try to capture that same spirit in my designs. I’m not afraid to use vibrant shades, interesting patterns and rich textures.
I firmly believe that nature is the ultimate inspiration. If a color combination works in a garden or a sunset, it can work in a home.”
When incorporating the Big Easy flair into our own dwelling, she says, it’s all about having the confidence to put it together in a way that feels intentional and harmonious. That starts with a vivid color palette; she suggests embracing rich hues like deep greens, blues, yellows and reds, reminiscent of the city’s spirit. “This rich color palette reflects the unique melting pot of cultures,” she says.
Next, she advises layering textures—for instance, using velvet, linen, wood and metal materials for depth and visual interest, echoing the layered history and culture of the city. “Consider incorporating wrought-iron details, or using the iconic fleur-de-lis motif in your decor—perhaps on pillows, artwork or decorative objects,” she suggests. “This instantly adds a touch of New Orleans heritage and its French cultural roots.”
You can also use vintage finds from flea markets and antique shops to inject character, reflecting NOLA’s preservation of its past. Add potted plants and hanging baskets to bring the outdoors in, mirroring the city’s lush landscapes and connection to nature. Finally, pay attention to minor details, like decorative accessories and unique lighting. The goal is to capture the warm, inviting spirit and rich heritage of New Orleans—creating quarters that feel personal and evocative, rather than like a replica. The products featured here, which you can obtain from Black-owned creatives, will help you accomplish just that.
