Today we’d like to introduce you to Dashirl Roach.
Hi Dashirl, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My journey into interior design has been anything but linear, and that is exactly what makes it so meaningful. Before launching 16 & Three Designs, I spent over 11+ years building a career in finance, where I developed a deep appreciation for structure, strategy, and thoughtful decision-making. At the same time, design had always been a constant in my life. I was the person friends and family called when they wanted help reimagining a space, choosing finishes, or making their home feel more like them.
Eventually, I realized that my analytical background and creative passion did not have to exist separately. I founded 16 & Three Designs to bridge that gap, creating a studio where beautiful, personalized interiors are grounded in clarity, purpose, and realistic investment planning. I believe great design should feel inspiring, but also attainable. Every project is approached with the same level of care, from understanding how a client lives day to day to guiding them through decisions that respect both their vision and their budget.
Today, 16 & Three Designs is rooted in the idea that our homes should reflect who we are and support how we live. I am honored to help clients transform their spaces into thoughtful, functional sanctuaries, and to walk alongside them from the first conversation to the final reveal with transparency, creativity, and intention.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Not at all, and I think that honesty is an important part of the story. One of my biggest challenges has been confidence, especially early on. Transitioning from a successful career in finance into a creative industry came with a very real case of imposter syndrome. I often questioned whether I truly belonged in the design space, even while doing the work and delivering strong results. Learning to trust my instincts, my training, and my perspective has been a gradual but transformative process.
Another ongoing challenge has been balancing it all. Building a design business while maintaining a full-time career requires constant prioritization and discipline. There were seasons where progress felt slow, and moments where it would have been easier to pause or play small. What kept me moving forward was a clear sense of purpose and the belief that both sides of my background bring value to my clients.
Those struggles ultimately shaped the business I run today. They taught me resilience, clarity, and the importance of showing up fully, even when confidence wavers. Over time, those challenges became strengths, allowing me to lead projects with empathy, intention, and a deep understanding of what it means to build something meaningful from the ground up.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
16 & Three Designs is a full-service interior design studio rooted in the belief that great design should be both beautiful and intentional. At its core, the brand is about creating spaces that feel aligned with how people truly live, not just how a room looks in a photograph. We specialize in residential interiors, offering everything from full-service design and procurement to consultations and curated styling solutions for clients who want clarity, guidance, and a seamless experience.
What sets us apart is the intersection of creativity and strategy. With a background in finance, I approach design with a strong emphasis on planning, transparency, and thoughtful investment. Clients are guided through decisions with a clear understanding of scope, priorities, and budget, which allows them to feel confident rather than overwhelmed. We are known for designing spaces that feel elevated yet livable, layered yet functional, and deeply personal to the client rather than trend-driven.
Brand-wise, I am most proud of the trust we build with our clients. Many come to us unsure of how to articulate their vision or hesitant about the process, and leave feeling empowered, supported, and excited about their space. From the first conversation to the final install, the experience is collaborative, intentional, and grounded in honesty.
What I want readers to know is that 16 & Three Designs is not about one signature style. It is about listening, translating, and designing with purpose. Every space we create is meant to support real life, reflect individuality, and stand the test of time.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
My close friends and family deserve an incredible amount of credit. They have been my earliest and most consistent cheerleaders, encouraging me to pursue this path long before it felt comfortable or certain. Several of them became my first clients, trusting me fully and giving me creative freedom on their projects. That level of belief is invaluable for any creative, and it gave me the confidence to lean into my voice and refine my approach.
I have also been deeply supported by peers within the design industry. Being part of an interior design mastermind program led by the C.A.S.E. Collective in Atlanta was instrumental in my professional growth. Through that experience, I gained a stronger foundation in the business side of design, while also forming meaningful relationships with other designers who understood the challenges and opportunities of building a creative business.
Those relationships, both personal and professional, have shaped not only the success of 16 & Three Designs, but also the way I show up as a designer. Having people who believe in your vision, challenge you to grow, and walk alongside you makes all the difference.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.16andthreedesigns.com
- Instagram: 16andthree
- Facebook: 16andthree
- LinkedIn: 16andthree
Image Credits
Tiffany Ringwald Photography
Denise Benson Photography
