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Sure, she won Design Star: Next Gen, but Carmeon Hamilton is just getting started. The Memphis-based founder of Nubi Interiors (and resident Domino plant parent!) is about to star in her own HGTV show. In each episode she’ll help Memphis renters make their temporary spaces, from apartments to townhouses, feel like forever homes. “I’m so excited that I get to be at the forefront of [rental design], because I know there’s so much need for it,” Hamilton tells Domino’s editor at large, Jessica Romm Perez, on this week’s episode of Design Time (out today on Spotify and Apple Podcasts). “It’s totally prevalent in the digital world, but we’re bringing it to television.” 

The six-part series is still in its casting phase, but in the meantime you can get Hamilton’s recs for everything from Memphis hot spots to making a space comfortable. Take a look at the 10 things inspiring the creative right now. 

Hotel Hitmaker

The Santa Monica Proper. Any space Kelly Wearstler designs is on my wish list of places to go.

Design Heroes

Definitely Kelly Wearstler. Hero number one. The lady is as unconventional as it gets. Like, why not try wrapping a room in onyx? Why not?

Favorite Color Pairing

Black and neutral tones like camel or even chocolate. I love the saturation of black mixed with the warmth of neutrals. It just feels edgy but welcoming at the same time.

Material of the Moment

Cane-backed dining chairs are my weakness. How many times can you see cane on a dining chair? A million, and I love every single one of them.

Dream Destination

I can’t wait to go back to New Orleans. It’s on our list as the first trip we’re taking as soon as we leave [Tennessee].

 
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Object Obsession

I designed three pieces in a collaboration with TOV Furniture. They’re all very specific to me—one is a credenza; another is inspired by the infamous slat wall behind our bed. The final item is a side table, which may be my favorite. It’s a small cocktail table, and the base is inspired by the hand-painted mural in my dining room. They’re not even tangible pieces yet. I’m waiting for the samples to show up, but they’ll be available at the end of this year.

Binge-Worthy Show

For visual inspiration, definitely The Queen’s Gambit. From costume design to set design, it was top-notch.

Bedside Read

The latest book I loved is by Alyssa Rosenheck. She’s an interior photographer. The New Southern Style is so good. She’s showcasing the homes of true creatives. Her photography and the design are so incredible.

Rental Hack

I would be remiss if my first tip wasn’t to [suggest] you incorporate plants into your rental; bring the outside in even if you’re not allowed to paint, poke holes in the wall, [or] do anything. The color is going to liven up your space.

Plant Pick

My favorite flower is probably ranunculus. I love all of those pretty petals.