Heritage, Wellness, and Advocacy: Marie Cloud’s Design Mission
In this episode, I chat with Marie Cloud, the founder of Indigo Pruitt, a design firm dedicated to creating emotionally supportive and visually appealing environments. We discuss her unique approach to design, which combines aesthetics with emotional well-being, and the role of family and heritage in her work. Additionally, Marie shares her involvement in community projects aimed at aiding those transitioning out of homelessness and her efforts to increase visibility for black and brown designers in the industry.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
On this Slow Stye Home Podcast episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Marie Cloud from the design firm Indigo Pruitt. We dove deep into the world of design, discussing how environments can promote emotional well-being and the importance of diversity in our field. Marie’s work stands out for its unique blend of aesthetic beauty, cultural heritage, and personal narrative.
Marie revealed the heartfelt story behind her firm's name, Indigo Pruitt. She shared her profound connection to her family history and her fascination with the color indigo — not just for its beauty but for its deep historical significance and scientific aspects, particularly within African American culture.
Marie shared the story of her home redesign, reflecting an evolution in her life, with each room telling its own story of cultural pride, family values, and personal growth. The main piece, a pencil sketch showcasing a blend of history and culture, perfectly encapsulates Marie's approach to design: layers of meaning waiting to be discovered.
She shared an intriguing project that highlighted Marie's ability to bring her client's visions to life. A game room transformation for a tech-savvy client where she converted a client's office into a high-tech room designed to mimic the sensation of being 'high' with cloud-themed decor and smart technology.
Marie doesn't stop with transforming spaces; she's dedicated to enriching her community. Through initiatives like Designers' Community Day and Furniture For Good, she leverages her expertise to make a tangible difference in the lives of the unhoused in Charlotte, weaving a fabric of support and hope. Her work reminds us that design is not just about creating beautiful spaces but about making those spaces accessible and meaningful for everyone. Marie also reflected on the slow progress toward inclusivity within the design industry and stressed the need for a more intentional and strategic approach to celebrating diversity.
Marie Cloud's journey is a testament to the power of storytelling in design. Her projects, deeply rooted in personal narratives and community service, illustrate how spaces can reflect and transform our lives.
