AS well as being the wife of DJ Clark Kent, Kesha Franklin is a visionary interior designer who has made a significant impact in the world of luxury design.
On October 24, 2024, her husband sadly passed away surrounded by his loved ones following a battle with cancer.
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The producer and artist had suffered from colon cancer for three years before his death at the age of 58.
Born Rodolfo Franklin, he worked with some of the biggest names in the game, including Jay-Z, Kanye West, Lil Kim and the Notorious B.I.G.
A documentary about his life called God’s Favourite D.J: The Story of DJ Clark Kent is still in production at the time of his passing.
A heartfelt tribute from his family posted on Instagram reads: “It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of the beloved Rodolfo A. Franklin, known to the world as DJ Clark Kent.
“Clark passed away Thursday evening surrounded by his devoted wife Kesha, daughter Kabriah and son Antonio.
“Clark quietly and valiantly fought a three year battle with Colon Cancer, while continuing to share his gifts with the world.
“The family is grateful for everyone’s love, support and prayers during this time and ask for privacy as they process this immense loss.”
Who is Kesha Franklin?
Kesha Franklin is the principal designer and owner of Halden Interiors.
She has established herself as a force to be reckoned with in the industry, earning accolades and recognition for her exceptional work.
Her passion for design was sparked in her formative years through exposure to her father’s vast collection of Architectural Digest and GQ magazines.
This early introduction to art, luxurious interiors and fine menswear laid the foundation for her future career.
Early career
Before fully immersing herself in interior design, Kesha gained valuable experience in event production and stage design.
She worked on large-scale galas for organizations including the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, honing her skills in creating impactful spaces.
Clark passed away Thursday evening surrounded by his devoted wife Kesha, daughter Kabriah and son Antonio
Family Statement
Kesha also has a background in fashion, having worked with The Ground Crew and as backstage management at high-profile fashion shows.
Halden Interiors
Her transition to interior design was organic, stemming from a failed business venture in 2003.
In 2020, she told Business Of Home: “My husband is in the entertainment industry, so back in 2002 we had heard that Barclays Center would be coming to Brooklyn.
“The following year, there was a four-story building [near the Barclays site] that was vacant; we reached out to friends of ours and [decided to] partner on putting a bar/lounge and restaurant there.
“I have a background in corporate event production, so I knew that I could fill it and run it.
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“But the part that we didn’t really think about was how to actually build it and get it to open.
Doing that venture is how I got exposed to interior design without even realizing it.
“We invested almost three years in that project, with lots of ups and downs, and by the end, it had become a money pit — I think it was 75 per cent there, but required more financial investment.
“We had gotten some legal and financial advice, and they were like, ‘Guys, it doesn’t make sense’. So we walked away.”
This experience planted the seed for what would become Halden Interiors, officially launched in 2009.
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The company name, inspired by her great-grandfather, reflects Kesha’s commitment to building a legacy that extends beyond her own name.
Design philosophy
Her design aesthetic is characterized by her ability to curate color palettes, balance textures and select distinct furnishings.
Her approach is deeply personal, beginning each project with a heart-to-heart conversation to understand her clients’ needs and aspirations.
The commitment to highly personalized service has become a hallmark of Halden Interiors.
Asked to provide three words describing her style, Kesha told LexTalks: “Tailored, modern and sophisticated.”
Kesha’s journey in interior design is marked by determination, artistic vision and a passion for creating spaces that inspire her clients and support their lifestyles.
Her work continues to push boundaries and redefine luxury interior design.