Meet Stella Onifade | Interior Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Stella Onifade and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Stella, why did you pursue a creative career?
I’ve always had a deep-rooted connection to creativity—it’s just always been a part of me. I grew up in a creative household where my sister worked as a textile designer, so I was naturally exposed to the world of color, texture, and design from an early age.

That influence, combined with my studies in Fine Art and Graphic Design, made the transition into interior design feel like a natural evolution.

It allows me to blend artistic expression with functionality, transforming spaces in ways that reflect both beauty and purpose. Interior design gives me the opportunity to tell stories through space—and that’s what truly drives me.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My career in interior design has truly been a journey of passion, persistence, and purpose. I started with a foundation in Fine Art and Graphic Design, which gave me a strong eye for composition, balance, and visual storytelling.

But it wasn’t until I stepped into the world of interiors that I felt everything click. I realized I wasn’t just designing spaces, I was shaping how people live, feel, and connect within those spaces.

What sets me apart is my ability to fuse artistry with intention. I don’t just focus on how a space looks; I focus on how it feels, how it functions, and how it reflects the identity of the people who occupy it.

I’ve built a reputation for creating bold, elevated, culturally resonant interiors that feel both personal and unforgettable. Whether it’s a residential home, a restaurant, or a commercial space, my goal is always to tell a story through design.

I’m incredibly proud of the relationships I’ve built and the spaces I’ve transformed, but I’m even more proud of the journey that brought me here. It wasn’t easy.

As a creative entrepreneur, with no formal interior design education, there were times I had to push through self-doubt, learn how to advocate for my value, and navigate a competitive industry without always having a clear roadmap.

Some of the biggest lessons I’ve learned: stay curious, trust your gut, and don’t be afraid to pivot. Every setback taught me something that eventually led to a breakthrough. I’ve learned that alignment is more important than approval, if the work feels authentic, it will resonate.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that design is more than decoration – it’s transformation.

My story is one of creativity rooted in purpose, and I want every client I work with to feel seen, empowered, and elevated through the spaces we create together.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting Atlanta for a week, I’d make sure they experienced the full essence of the city, its creativity, culture, flavor, and hospitality. Atlanta is rich with history and style, and I’d want them to leave feeling inspired and well-fed.

Day 1:
We’d start with brunch at South City Kitchen in Midtown for a true taste of Southern classics. Afterward, we’d walk the BeltLine and explore Ponce City Market, wrapping the day with rooftop cocktails at the Thompson Hotel.

Day 2:
A visit to the High Museum of Art would be a must, followed by lunch at Houston’s. Then we’d explore Little Five Points, an artsy, eclectic neighborhood that always sparks conversation. That evening, we’d catch live music at City Winery.

Day 3:
I’d take them to ADAC (Atlanta Decorative Arts Center) to explore top-tier design showrooms and introduce them to the creative energy of the industry. Lunch at JCT Kitchen and a walk through Westside Provisions District would round out a stylish afternoon.

Day 4:
We’d explore the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park and the Auburn Avenue Historic District, followed by a fun lunch at Connally Square. Later, we’d visit the Trap Music Museum for a more modern cultural experience.
Dinner at Rock Steady or Tulum
Kitchen & Bar would end the night on a high note.

Day 5:
To slow things down, we’d relax at Piedmont Park or a visit to Jeju Sauna would be the perfect wellness escape. For dinner, I’d treat them to seafood at The Optimist.

Day 6:
We’d spend the day shopping in Buckhead Village District with lunch at Gypsy Kitchen. In the evening, we’d enjoy dinner at The Garden Room, a floral, visually stunning space that perfectly blends design and dining.

Day 7:
On the last day, we’d do brunch at Breakfast at Barney’s, an upscale, Black-owned gem known for its beautiful ambiance and elevated comfort food. Then maybe party at Whiskey Mistress. It’s a perfect sendoff and a celebration of Atlanta’s spirit.

Atlanta has such a vibrant personality, it’s creative, soulful, and constantly evolving. Whether through food, design, or community, there’s something unforgettable around every corner. That’s what I’d want my guest to take away from their time here.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Along the way, I’ve also been fortunate to have a strong community of support. I was a founding member of Kappa Theta Lambda, a non-collegiate sorority created to empower women in business.

That sisterhood played a pivotal role in shaping my confidence and leadership. It pushed me to think bigger, take more risks, and embrace my creative voice.

I’m especially grateful to two women—Sonya Little and Ola Omokomowo—who have been unwavering in their support.

They reminded me that success is often built on the shoulders of those who see your potential even before you do.

Website: https://www.stellaodesigns.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_stellaodesigns?igsh=b2I0a244Y2o5eDFr&utm_source=qr

Other: Pinterest
https://pin.it/3gGdpVXLn