Green Peace
BLK Girls Green House brings plants and tranquility to West Oakland
In a generation of anxiety-inducing media, where the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, war and police brutality can be seen all over screens, it’s important to find a space to feel calm within the storm. In the East Bay, two local businesspersons are ensuring that there are relaxing environments like this for Black folks who have been particularly traumatized by the ongoing racism and violence committed against Black communities.
Today, it’s more important than ever to have a place for people of color who are looking for this sense of tranquility. That’s what Kalkidan Gebreyohannes and J’Maica Roxannee set out to accomplish in August of 2020 when they opened up their plant shop, BLK Girls Green House, after their first meeting at the Black Joy Parade. BLK Girls Green House is a specialty home goods store and plant shop on Center Street in West Oakland, near the recently launched West Oakland Farmers Market.
“Whenever you’re in Oakland, we hope that you join us and find something you love, whether it’s a plant, a gift, a cup of coffee with a friend or to just catch a vibe,” Gebreyohannes and Roxanne state on their website, describing the calming ambiance that the space emits as soon as visitors walk in. BLK Girls Green House is the spot for anyone looking for a luscious monstera, a lively fern or who just wants to grab a candle or new kitchenware.
Open Friday-Sunday, the shop also features a coffee kiosk by Black-owned Blythe Coffee and only contains merchandise from other Black-owned businesses. In a 2020 interview with Bon Apétit, Gebreyohannes said it’s been difficult finding nurseries and plant stores that are accommodating to Black folks. BLK Girls Green House is looking to change that by providing a shop that is solely dedicated to Black joy.
The BLK Girls Green House team has done a lovely job merchandising products for a sleek and modern household. For those who want to find a new staple for their home, or who’d like to attend one of their upcoming community events like scent workshops, follow their Instagram: @blkgirls_greenhouse.
Readers’ Picks
Best Architect
Ecobuild Architects
Best Contractor (Commercial)
Caha Design
Best House Cleaning
The Cooperative Cleaning Company
Best Solar Supplier
A1 Sun
Best Oriental Rug Dealer
Istanbul Rug
Best Green Home Builder
Blue Dog Construction & Renovation
Best Home Improvement Store
Cole Hardware
Best Window Cleaners
A-1 The Clear Choice
Best Landscape Design Company
Sue Oda Landscape Architect
Best Hauling
Nixxit Junk Removal
Best General Home Contractor
Hometelligent
Best AC/Heating
Harry Clark Heating & Air Conditioning
Best Interior Designer
LMB Interiors
Best Carpeting/Flooring
The Floor Store
Best Deck Builders
Blue Dog Construction
Best Appliance Store/Repair
Galvin Appliance
Best Kitchen/Bath Remodeler
Custom Kitchens
Best Landscape Supplier
Acapulco Rock and Soil
Best Consignment Furniture
Uhuru Furniture
Best Furniture Store
KCC Modern Living
Best Home Audio
Man Cave Ameria
Best Electrician
Kent Cates, Lektricman
Best Plumbing Company
Harry Clark Plumbing
Best Carpet Cleaning
Surf Clean
Best Roofer
Nicholas Roofing
Best Tree Service
The Professional Tree Care Co.
Best Painting Contractor
JJ’s Fine Painting
