It’s feature number three and we are joined by Architect, business owner and jewellery designer, Malaika Carr Johnson. In this feature we catch up on transitioning from architecture into product design, running a business and being a parent.
Chalk Jewellery
| Malaika, for our readers, who are you and what is Chalk Jewellery?
My name is Malaika Carr Johnson, and I run a small design studio called Chalk. We design and make jewellery as well as homeware and also dabble in interior design.
| How long have you been running your business now?
I have been running Chalk since 2010, shortly after graduating with my Part 2 in architecture. At that time, the job market was slow, and the construction industry was in a challenging phase. While sending out numerous applications, I decided to spend my time creatively, exploring jewellery and homeware design as an outlet. What started as a small project soon grew into Chalk, allowing me to blend my architectural background with a passion for unique design.
| That is quite some time! How far into starting Chalk Jewellery did you decide to stop practicing as an architect as a day to day job?
Leaving architecture was a gradual process for me. I genuinely enjoyed the projects I was working on, but I was equally excited to see where Chalk could take me. Eventually, I reduced my hours to a four-day week, which made a world of difference—I had been working nearly seven days a week, with architecture during the week and jewellery design on the weekends. This shift allowed me the balance I needed until, four years ago, I finally took the leap and dedicated myself fully to Chalk.
Malaika Carr and Chalk Jewellery
| Was it difficult to step away from the architecture world and put all your passions into Chalk Jewellery?
Yes, it was challenging. I felt torn between a career I had invested so much time and energy into and a deep desire to run my own business. Balancing both was no easy task, but ultimately, my passion for creating and building something of my own won out. Taking that leap was one of the hardest—and most rewarding—decisions I’ve made.
| Your designs have an architectural language to them. What would you say inspires you when making a new collection?
Travel is my greatest source of inspiration. Every journey brings me into contact with stunning architecture, vibrant colours, unique shapes, and rich cultures. These experiences ignite my senses and set my creativity in motion, fuelling new ideas for my designs.
| You have had much recognition for your beautiful designs. Featured in Forbes, Tomfoolery Jewellery London, had Kate Middleton wear your designed earrings, collaborated with MoMA (Museum of Modern Art) and soon to release a collection for the Barbican. These are rewarding landmarks. What has been a challenge in running the business? What advice could you give to someone shifting from architecture to a creative passion that becomes a fully functioning business?
These are major milestones I never imagined reaching. In the beginning, I worried about not being seen and often found myself comparing my brand to others. As someone who’s fairly risk-averse and values stability, moving from a steady pay check to an unpredictable income was a real challenge. But over time, I grew more confident in my ability to build and expand my business, and I learned to believe in myself. Some months are better than others, but I hold onto the faith that my business will continue to thrive.
Chalk Jewellery
As a woman, and now a mother to a young baby girl under the age 1. How have you managed to keep your company staying strong as the founder and key person leading the designs?
Over the past 10 months, my business has slowed as my focus has shifted to my baby girl. I feel incredibly fortunate to have an assistant, which has allowed me to balance running Chalk while embracing motherhood. I go into the studio with Ayah to oversee the process and handle admin from home. This setup feels like the perfect balance for me—I get to spend precious time with Ayah while staying engaged and inspired by my work.
Chalk Jewellery
| At what point did you realise you needed a team and opened up your work studio?
When I was fortunate enough to secure a space at Cockpit Arts, I decided to take on jewellery interns for their work experience year. This experience helped me realise just how beneficial additional support could be and gave me valuable insight into what it takes to be an employer. Through this process, I learned what tasks I could delegate, which led me to make the decision to bring on a permanent team member.
| You have continued to grow from strength to strength within Chalk Jewellery, what is something you would like to do next with Chalk? Or what can we expect next from you?
Thank you, this is a good question, my idea of success keeps shifting as I and my brand continue to develop and grow. It’s been such an incredible journey with Chalk, and there’s still so much I’m excited to explore. Next, I’d love to expand our range to include more homeware pieces, blending jewellery design techniques with functional art for the home. I’m also considering collaborations that would allow Chalk to explore new materials and styles. So, expect a few surprises that bring fresh creativity and versatility to the brand!
| Where can our readers find Chalk Jewellery?
You can find us www.thechalkhouse.com
| Any final words for our readers from the perception of a new mother and creative business owner?
I have found it so rewarding being a mother and creative business owner. This space has allowed me to have the flexibility to manage my time the way I want to. Although my maternity leave has been punctuated with visits to the studio it has given me more purpose and stimulated me and my baby girl. She has created her own community in the studio where others find joy being around her.
Malaika Carr
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