A Nod to NOLA

The owner of Whitney J Décor, in the Big Easy, shares ideas for adding flair reminiscent of the city to your space

- By Dominique Fluker

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 West-bank, 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.