Dominique Calhoun’s journey as a successful interior designer wasn’t so linear. It started off by getting denied from interior design school, pivoting to fashion, and thinking that was going to be her career path. But design continued to be close to her heart. So in 2017, she took the step towards making her passion into a thriving business. Her company, Remix Living, is now a 6-figure interior design firm known for its bold, eclectic style and fashion-forward interiors. She has serviced celebrities like Kevin Hart, professional athletes like Malcolm Jenkins, and continues to gather national attention for her unique, eye-catching work.
Can you start by introducing yourself and sharing, in your own words, your inspiring story?
I’m Dominique Calhoun, a bold interior designer focused on creating spaces that spark conversation and inspire. I grew up in Philadelphia, and even as a kid, I loved being creative and pairing bold, fun patterns.
But my journey into design wasn’t easy. I applied to Philadelphia University to study interior design and got denied, so I pivoted and went to the University of Maryland Eastern Shore to study fashion. Obviously, my story didn’t stop there. I was still creating unique spaces in my own home, and because of the positive feedback I was getting, I decided to take my hobby to the next level.
Making this change, overcoming challenges, and embracing my passion allowed me to turn my vision into a thriving business. Now, through my firm, I offer a range of services to meet clients where they are in their design journey, making luxury design accessible to all. I aim to curate spaces that make you feel something special, with unexpected elements and energy that resonate with our clients.
We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I got where I am today through perseverance and tunnel vision. Interior design has always been where I was meant to be, but there were a number of challenges I had to overcome to arrive where I am now. My experience in fashion helped shape the way I approach pattern, texture, and layering, but also growing up and having the opportunity to be creative set the foundation. When the opportunity finally arrived to take design, the thing I had always loved, and turn it into something bigger than just a hobby, I dove in and never looked back. It’s been an incredible ride, and I’m proud to share that with every project, I’m helping others create spaces that speak to who they truly are.
What made you decide to go into business for yourself?
What truly pushed me to start my own business was the rejection I faced from other firms, because I didn’t attend design school, I was seen as underqualified. That rejection was hard, but it became the spark that ignited my determination. I decided to prove that passion, skill, and real-world experience could go further than a degree, and that’s when I knew it was time to pave my own path. It was the best thing I could have done, and now I have a thriving business rooted in passion and purpose.
How did you market your business when it was brand new?
When my business was brand new, I turned to social media, especially Instagram, as my visual portfolio. It became my primary marketing tool, allowing me to showcase my designs, connect with potential clients, and build a brand that resonated with people who valued creativity and authenticity.
What is a typical day like for you?
A typical day for me as a designer is always full of variety and changes. From managing office operations and overseeing multiple projects to mentoring my team and collaborating with clients, no two days are ever the same. The constant balancing act keeps me on my toes, but it’s this dynamic nature of the work that fuels my passion and drives me forward every day.
What are the three most important habits to be a successful entrepreneur?
Some of the most important habits that have led to my success as an entrepreneur are the ability to pivot quickly, multitask efficiently, and remain calm in the midst of challenges. In this business, things can change in an instant, and staying adaptable and composed, no matter what, has been key to navigating both the highs and the storms.
If you had one piece of advice for someone just starting out, what would it be?
If I could offer one piece of advice to someone starting out, it would be to work under someone first if you can. Gaining hands-on experience and learning from those who’ve already walked the path will save you from making costly mistakes down the road. There’s so much to learn, and having a mentor or a mentor-like environment can fast-track your growth and give you insights that textbooks or self-study can’t provide.
My business, located in Philadelphia, is proud to give back to the community by offering paid internships through Interior Design co-op programs. This initiative provides aspiring designers with valuable real-world experience while also compensating them for their contributions. It’s important to me to offer others opportunities that were not available when I started, and I’m honored to help nurture the next generation of talented designers in our city.
Every entrepreneur has a goal and problem they’re trying to solve. What was the inspiration that started your journey?
The inspiration that started my journey into interior design was the belief that everyone deserves access to great design. As a child, I watched my mother transform our house into a home with the little she had. Seeing how she created warmth and style in our home with limited resources sparked my passion to help others experience that same sense of style and purpose in their spaces.
How do you prioritize self-care and well-being while managing the demands of your business?
Self-care is something I still struggle with to this day as a hands-on entrepreneur. Balancing client needs, business demands, and personal responsibilities can leave little room for rest. But I’m learning that taking time for myself is essential—not just for my well-being, but for the long-term success of my business. It’s a work in progress, but I’m committed to finding that balance.
What would you consider your biggest accomplishment and why?
Some of my biggest accomplishments include hosting a 24-episode TV show on Cleo TV, which was based around my real design business and featured my real-life clients. Additionally, I opened my own design showroom in Philadelphia, making me the only Black designer in the city with a showroom. These milestones are personal achievements I’m proud of, but they’re also a reflection of my commitment to breaking barriers and paving the way for future designers in the industry.
Can you share some of the most important lessons you’ve learned from your successes and failures in business?
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned in business is to take nothing personally. Everything in business should be handled as business. People are who they are, and their actions or reactions are not a reflection of you. Keeping this mindset has helped me navigate challenges and setbacks without letting them define my journey or my worth.
How do you set your business apart from others in your industry?
I know it’s been said before, but it’s true. Be yourself, especially if you’re building a creative business that is a reflection of you and your passion. I believe that my work stands out because I lean into my own style, embracing what makes me and my designs unique. You’re not for everyone, nor are you supposed to be.
Wrap-up
What truly pushed me to start my own business was the rejection I faced from other firms. Because I didn’t attend design school, I was seen as underqualified. That rejection was hard, but it became the spark that ignited my determination. I decided to prove that passion, skill, and real-world experience could go further than a degree, and that’s when I knew it was time to pave my own path. It was the best thing I could have done, and now I have a thriving business rooted in passion and purpose.
Want more inspiring interviews?
We love spotlighting amazing women! Check out these interviews (plus so many more) on She Owns It.
Meet Alice James of AJG Fashion Consulting, founder of Clear Communication Academy LaQuita Cleare, and Carrie Colbert of Curate Capital. Get to know Color Me Mine Franchisee Andrea Leighton or a Q&A with Grammy-nominated powerhouse Melky Jean.
All of these and more are part of our interview series spotlighting successful women in business.
Melissa Stewart is the founder of SheOwnsIt.com. She is a Purveyor of Possibility, Entrepreneur Advocate and Coffee Addict. She believes that behind every successful woman is her story. What’s your story?