Design Challenge: Janelle Monae - Electric Lady (2013)
For the final week of Women’s History Month, we’re kicking the design challenge off with a heavy-hitter!
Janelle Monae’s 2013 album Electric Lady is a vibrant fusion of funk, R&B, soul and rock, showcasing her dynamic vocals and eclectic style. Monae collaborated with the legendary late artist Prince for the track “Give ‘Em What They Love,” which became a standout moment for the album and highlighted their shared musical genius. Prince was a mentor and supporter of Monae, and his influence is palpable throughout the project.
The Electric Lady features guest appearances from artists Erykah Badu, Solange and more, further solidifying Monae’s status as a visionary in the music industry. With its futuristic concept and infectious grooves, the album cemented Monae’s place as one of the most innovative artists of this generation. As eclectic as Monae’s sound is, we knew awe wanted to style a living space that had a bohemian yet futuristic feel with pieces that could each stand as a centerpiece to any living room. For the focal point, we decided to go with this gorgeous Belia Modular sectional in “Solstice.”
To compliment the black and white motif that is present in the album art and also played a pivotal part in the artists’ costume design earlier in her career (an homage to the sacrifices her mother made while raising her,) we played around with bringing that contrast in with several different pieces including this black and white checkerboard coffee table!
To help brighten up our selections we utilized the help of electric pink throw pillows care of Anthropologie as well as this pair of two-tone glitter skull lamps care of Haus Skulls.
To balance out some of our bolder choices and compliment the blue velvet in our sofa we went with this custom Jagger credenza in “Merlin Lavender” by Scout Design Studio.
Here’s a look at the finished project…
Credits:
Black and White Checkerboard Coffee Table: 1st Dibs
Two-Tone Glitter Lamps: Haus Skulls
Fiona Ribbed velvet Pillow: Anthropologie
Custom Jagger Credenza: Scout Design Studio
Open Hands Stool: Urban Outfitters
Neutro Black and Warm White Abstract hand-Knotted New Zealand Wool Area Rug: CB2
Annika Table Lamp by Mary McDonald: Perigold
Let us know your thoughts on how this all came together. Have a suggestion for a new design challenge or want our help with your own design project? Contact us at sacredandlit@gmail.com.