We were lucky to catch up with Camia Brown recently and have shared our conversation below.
Camia, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Let’s start with the story of your mission. What should we know?
Our mission at Camia Brown Interiors goes beyond designing spaces; it’s about education, inspiration, and challenging the status quo. We’re on a journey to uncover perspectives that redefine design for our clients, embracing uniqueness and valuing the exploration process. We find excitement in deviating from the ordinary, avoiding the mundane remixes and opting for fresh, original creations. While our aesthetic leans towards modern and colorful, we believe in the limitless possibilities of interior design. At the core, we’re about spreading joy, infusing luxury spaces with color, whimsy, and unexpected elements. We’re not just designing; we’re creating experiences that resonate deeply with those who share our passion and enthusiasm.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I appreciate the opportunity to share more about Camia Brown Interiors with your readers.
I’m Camia, a Georgia native with a passion for design that stems from a blend of cultural influences and a love for exploration. My journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design and a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish from Georgia Southern University, and I hold the distinction of being a licensed designer with NCIDQ credentials.
The heart of my design philosophy lies in weaving vibrant colors, creativity, and resourcefulness into every project. My experience extends from relief projects in Costa Rica to contributing to post-Hurricane Sandy reconstruction in New York City.
Camia Brown Interiors (CBI) is based in Brooklyn, NY, and stands at the intersection of timelessness, modernism, and whimsy. Our approach is client-centric, and we specialize in crafting spaces that are inviting, livable, and luxurious. Whether it’s private homes, large-scale commercial developments, or hospitality environments, we address challenges creatively and embrace the unique needs of each client.
Our work at CBI reflects a perfect balance between sophistication and practicality. We take pride in bringing creativity, ingenuity, and intelligence to both private and public spaces. I believe in creating environments that not only meet the aesthetic desires of clients but also enhance their overall quality of life.
I’m most proud of our ability to forge meaningful connections with clients, explore endless design possibilities, and deliver spaces that go beyond expectations. What sets CBI apart is the dedication to client satisfaction and the seamless integration of timeless design elements with modern sensibilities.
For potential clients and followers, I want them to know that at Camia Brown Interiors, we don’t just design spaces; we create experiences. Our commitment is to bring beauty, functionality, and a touch of magic to every project.
Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?
Certainly! Here are a few books that have profoundly influenced my entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy and a few more I’m currently reading and are in my que. Yes, I’m obsessed with books, mostly because I believe that all the tools we need to succeed are within us and around us, we just have to tap in and explore.
“Who Not How” by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy. The central idea of the book revolves around a shift in mindset when it comes to achieving goals. Instead of asking “how” to accomplish a task, the authors advocate for asking “who” can help you achieve it. This approach emphasizes collaboration, delegation, and recognizing the strengths of others. The book encourages readers to focus on their unique abilities and leverage the expertise of others to achieve greater success and fulfillment. It’s a guide to rethinking productivity and building a network of support to reach one’s objectives more efficiently.
“Good to Great” by Jim Collins: is a management and business book that explores why some companies make the leap from being good to becoming great, while others don’t. The book identifies common characteristics and strategies shared by these “great” companies, such as disciplined people, disciplined thought, and disciplined action.
“The Entrepreneur Roller Coaster” by Darren Hardy is a motivational and practical guide for entrepreneurs navigating the ups and downs of building a business. Hardy takes readers on a journey through the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship, offering insights and strategies for success. The book addresses common fears and obstacles faced by entrepreneurs and provides actionable advice on mindset, productivity, and building resilience. It encourages readers to embrace the roller coaster ride of entrepreneurship, emphasizing personal growth, goal-setting, and the importance of perseverance in achieving long-term success.
“Rocket Fuel” by Gino Wickman and Mark C. Winters explores the concept of combining the visionary and integrator roles in a business to achieve optimal performance. The authors introduce the idea of a visionary leader who focuses on innovation, ideas, and the future, and an integrator who is skilled at executing plans and managing day-to-day operations. When these two forces come together it creates a powerful force and maximizes the business potential.
These books below are what I’m currently reading:
The Hard Thing About Hard Things” by Ben Horowitz:** Horowitz shares practical advice on navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, drawing from his experiences as a successful Silicon Valley entrepreneur and investor.
“How to Consciously Design Your Ideal Future” by Dr. Benjamin Hardy guides readers on how to proactively shape and create the life they desire by leveraging principles of conscious design and intentional decision-making.
“The Art of Possibility” by Rosamund Stone Zander and Benjamin Zander is a transformative book that explores leadership, creativity, and the limitless possibilities when we change our perspective.
“Drive” by Daniel H. Pink examines the science of motivation, providing valuable insights into what truly drives people, which is crucial for effective leadership and management.
“Mindset: The New Psychology of Success” by Carol S. Dweck explores the concept of fixed vs. growth mindsets and how adopting a growth mindset can lead to success in business and life.
These books cover a range of topics and there are so many more out there. I’ve also read a lot of Interior Design based books as well, but these are general entrepreneurial books that have helped and are helping me!
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
Certainly! When I launched my interior design business just before the pandemic hit, the sudden lockdowns and economic uncertainties posed a significant challenge. Recognizing the shift in priorities and the surge in remote work, I swiftly pivoted my services to cater to home office design solutions, helping clients create functional and aesthetically pleasing workspaces in their homes. As a licensed interior designer, this not only allowed me to adapt to the changing needs of my clients during the pandemic but also showcased the resilience and versatility of my design expertise.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.camiabrowninteriors.com
- Instagram: @camiabrowninteriors
- Facebook: Camia Brown or Camia Brown Interiors
- Linkedin: Camia Brown
Image Credits
Rayon Richards Photography