Calvin Ashford facts for kids

Calvin Ashford, Jr. (born around 1935 – died June 24, 2008) was a talented African-American interior designer. He lived and worked in Chicago, Illinois. Calvin Ashford was the main designer and director at his own company, Gilmore-Ashford-Powers Designs, which he started in the 1970s. He also created The Black Interior Designers Association in 1998. He was a big part of The Organization of Black Designers until he passed away.

Early Life

Ashford was born in Ypsilanti, Michigan, in 1935. His parents were Calvin Ashford and Alice Ashford. His father worked in construction.

Calvin grew up in Willow Run, Michigan. He was the oldest of five brothers. One of his brothers was Nickolas Ashford, a famous musician.

Education and Learning

Calvin Ashford finished high school early. He then moved to New York City. There, he earned a degree in interior design from Columbia University at just 18 years old.

After that, he went to London to gain more experience. He also studied microbiology at the University of Michigan. Later, he earned a doctorate degree in microbiology from the University of Illinois at Chicago Medical. He was even offered a job as a professor there.

Designing Career

Calvin Ashford opened his design company, Gilmore-Ashford-Powers Designs, in the 1970s. His office was in the Lake Point Tower in Chicago. This building was the tallest apartment building in the world for many years.

Calvin worked closely with Keith Moore for 18 years at his company. They created amazing spaces together.

His brother, Nickolas Ashford, helped Calvin meet famous people. Nickolas was part of the music duo Ashford and Simpson. He introduced Calvin to stars like Diana Ross and Dionne Warwick. This helped Calvin become very well-known.

Calvin Ashford designed homes for many celebrities. Some of his famous clients included:

• Maya Angelou
• Whitney Houston
• Sammy Sosa
• Jalen Rose
• Juwan Howard
• Diana Ross
• Dionne Warwick
• Eddy Curry
• Kendall Gill
• Michael Finley
• Lauren Bacall
• Lana Turner
• Gina Lollobrigida
• Mickey Rooney
• Raquel Welch

He also designed many private homes in cities like Chicago, New York, and Palm Springs. One of his designs was in the famous Trump Tower.

Awards and Recognition

Calvin Ashford did a lot to help other designers.

• In 1998, he started the Black Interior Designers Association. This group helps young African-American people interested in interior design.
• He was also very involved with the Organization of Black Designers.
• In 1990, Calvin won a Chicago Design Award.
• He was listed in "Who's Who in Interior Design," a book about important designers.
• He also received the Design Pioneer award for his great work.

Death

Calvin Ashford, Jr. passed away on June 24, 2008. He was 73 years old. He died at his home in the Gold Coast area of Chicago.