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London-based artist Yinka Ilori has launched a vibrant homeware collection that takes cues from his British-Nigerian heritage. A celebration of Ilori’s dual cultures, the whimsical collection that spans rugs, pillow cushions, kitchenware, and art prints makes use of bold hues and sharp geometric shapes. With contemporary pieces that touch on global themes, Ilori’s collection also evokes memories from his own childhood to tell a story.
Ilori told Design Milk last month that each product is ”meant to instill a sense of optimism and joy”— as well as “act in their own small way as a distraction” from the difficult times we faced in 2020. The designer explained, “My first homeware collection is a continuation of design work inspired by my own British-Nigerian heritage and childhood. It’s a colorful celebration of two cultures expressed through abstract, technicolor pattern, and contemporary craft.”
Ilori continued, “Unexpected, functional household items that evoke memories from my own upbringing have been reworked as colorful artworks.” That sense of optimism and joy is prevalent in every piece, indeed.
In the homeware section, Ilori has a collection of cushion covers made from a jacquard technique that allows intricate, abstract patterns to be interwoven into the cotton fabric itself. The OMI Cushion (£75) is adorned in vibrant blues, oranges, purples, and greens, while the ERE Cushion (£75) is adorned in bold yellows, oranges, pinks, greens, and purples—both of which designed with circular and geometric shapes.
The vibrant hues and contrasting shapes also seep into the kitchenware collection, filled with mugs, tea towels, plates, and bowls. In the artwork section, colorful murals and installations are adorned with inspiration phrases such as, “Better days are coming I promise,” “Love always wins,” and “As long as we have each other we’ll be OK.” Every piece tells a story, indeed—one that deserves undivided attention. To browse Ilori’s full homeware collection, visit the Yinka Ilori Store.