Nicole Avant’s L.A. Home Is Filled With Nods to Black History
A Childhood of Celebrities and History
Growing up in Beverly Hills with a father who was a music industry legend and a mother who was a philanthropist and consummate dinner party host, Nicole Avant had a front-row seat — at a 12-seater antique wood table — to history.
Regular Guests of Honor
Mohammed Ali, Ella Fitzgerald, Bill Withers, Sidney Poitier, Hank Aaron, and Don Cornelius were regular guests who were always offered her mother’s signature drink, Kir Royale. But what Ms. Avant, 56, remembers most about her childhood home is passing the history on what her family called “the Great Wall,” which served as a space to honor Black American entrepreneurs, lawyers, scientists, and professors at historically Black colleges and universities.
The Great Wall
The “Great Wall” was a long, narrow room in the Avant home, lined with large, framed photographs of notable Black figures. The space was designed to educate and inspire, and it played a significant role in shaping Ms. Avant’s perspective on the world. She recalls spending hours there, fascinated by the stories and achievements of these pioneers.
A Legacy of Philanthropy
Ms. Avant’s mother, a philanthropist, was instrumental in creating the “Great Wall” and instilling a sense of pride and purpose in her children. Her father, a music industry legend, would often host impromptu jam sessions in the living room, with guests like Stevie Wonder and Aretha Franklin dropping by to join in.
A Home that Heals
Today, Ms. Avant’s own home in Los Angeles is a reflection of her mother’s legacy. The 5,000-square-foot property is filled with nods to Black history, from the African-inspired artwork to the collection of rare books by Black authors. The home is not only a testament to her mother’s vision but also a symbol of her own commitment to preserving and promoting Black culture.
Conclusion
Nicole Avant’s childhood home may have been a hub of celebrity activity, but it was also a place where history came alive. The “Great Wall” remains a powerful symbol of the importance of education, inspiration, and community. For Ms. Avant, it’s a reminder that her mother’s legacy lives on, and that the stories of Black pioneers continue to shape and inspire her.
FAQs
* What is the “Great Wall” in Nicole Avant’s childhood home?
The “Great Wall” is a long, narrow room lined with large, framed photographs of notable Black figures, designed to educate and inspire.
* Who were some of the regular guests at the Avant home?
Mohammed Ali, Ella Fitzgerald, Bill Withers, Sidney Poitier, Hank Aaron, and Don Cornelius were some of the regular guests.
* What is Nicole Avant’s mother’s signature drink?
Kir Royale, a champagne cocktail, was a signature drink often offered to guests at the Avant home.
