Exploring Life & Business with Sharlene Yaqui of Studio Yaqui

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sharlene Yaqui

Sharlene, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’ve always had a love for interior design, but it wasn’t until later in life that I realized it could be my career. In 2008, I became fascinated with interiors and started a blog to immerse myself in the world of design. Writing about it and connecting with strangers on the internet made perfect sense. That blog eventually led to a social media marketing internship at a major hair-care brand in New York City, which turned into a full-time role. During my time there, they were redesigning their conference room and asked for my input due to my interest in design. I designed a custom media console, sourced new furniture and lighting, and felt a lightbulb moment—I knew I needed to pursue interior design professionally.

Without a portfolio, I enrolled in courses at LaGuardia Community College, where their exceptional Fine Arts and Design program provided me with a solid foundation in art and technical drawing. After a couple of semesters, I felt confident in my skills and developed a strong portfolio, which led to my acceptance into the Interior Design program at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT). During my time at FIT, I interned at architecture firms, balancing studio classes and unpaid internships in New York’s fast-paced environment. This hustle paid off, and I moved up from intern to Interior Design Associate by the time I graduated, working on both educational and luxury residential projects. My time working and studying in New York City deeply shaped my design approach, strengthening an appreciation for community-building and creating inspiring spaces where people gather.

After seven years in New York, I returned to Los Angeles, where I began freelancing and designing for my own clients. I was then recruited as Lead Designer for a developer focused on multi-family renovation projects nationwide. Even during the pandemic, the work continued, and my husband and I relocated to Atlanta, his hometown, to prepare for the arrival of our son. Transitioning our lives while I was six months pregnant was challenging, but it was manageable since we both worked remotely. After our son was born and the developer sold off most of their properties, I took a break to focus on motherhood before returning to design as an entrepreneur.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The entrepreneurial path has been full of growth—building networks, learning systems, and navigating a new market in Atlanta. However, I’ve grown to love the Atlanta design scene, especially after attending the Case Conference, which nurtures designers of color. I connected with talented Black designers who have become a supportive community, and we help one another thrive in the industry.

We’ve been impressed with Studio Yaqui, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Studio Yaqui is a full-service interior design firm specializing in residential and new construction projects. My passion for interior design stems from the ability to create spaces that enrich the way people live and feel. I love blending function with beauty, transforming environments into personal and inspiring spaces. My work is often described as detail-oriented, with a balance of modern and timeless design. I’m known for crafting elevated, yet personal spaces that reflect my clients’ visions and for delivering exceptional results through collaboration.

In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
In the next 5-10 years, I see the interior design industry embracing more diversity and recognition for designers of color. Early in my career, I was often the only person of color in the room, but today, I see more platforms that celebrate us and bring us together. I believe this movement will continue to grow, with diversity becoming the norm, rather than the exception, in our industry

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.studioyaqui.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/sharleneyaqui
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Studioyaqui
• Other: https://tiktok.com/sharleneyaqui