On September 22, Black Interior Designers Inc., Benjamin Moore and Save Iconic Architecture hosted a special celebration of architectural heritage at the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel. The evening paid tribute to the groundbreaking achievements of Paul R. Williams, a visionary architect whose legacy has indelibly shaped the world of design. Williams’s lasting impact and oeuvre serve as a poignant reminder of the significance of safeguarding architectural treasures—and the importance of honoring the past as a means of recognizing the indispensable role diversity plays in propelling the design and architecture fields forward. More than 125 designers, architects and industry VIPs, including Keia McSwain, June Reese, Jaime Rummerfield, Ron Woodson, Andre Jordan Hilton, Leah Alexander, Linda Hayslett, Beth Diana Smith, Cheryl Luckett and Una Malan, enjoyed views overlooking the pool and spectacular Los Angeles sunset while DJ Val Fleury spun tunes. 

Benjamin Moore debuted a limited edition BID Inc. fan deck, created exclusively for the occasion, featuring 78 paint colors such as Asphalt, Balboa Mist, Exotic Bloom, Fiery Opal, Midnight Summer and Rose Accent. The palette was thoughtfully curated by esteemed designer collaborators and BID Inc.’s AA Top 10, among them Dani Arps, Michel Smith Boyd, Tiffany Brooks, Danielle Colding, Tavia Forbes, Corey Damen Jenkins, General Judd, Monet Masters, Shawn McLean-Bergel, Brigette Romanek, McSwain, Reese and Woodson.

“BID Inc. is delighted to partner with the authority of color as we present hues selected from the 2022–2023 class of African American Top 10 Interior Designers,” said McSwain. “It’s a hand-selected curation birthed from power, depth and the everlasting adoration for color, intended to inspire all to dream and create.”

“Benjamin Moore is steadfast in our commitment to supporting BID Inc. and contributing to a design community that is inclusive, equitable and allows talent to flourish without limitations. Together, we strive to create a future where creativity, merit and opportunities know no bounds,” said Lauren Corbin, senior manager, architecture and designer segments at Benjamin Moore.