Yinka Ilori MBE partners with Dunelm to launch a playfully vibrant and nostalgia-focused home furnishings collaboration.
Yinka Ilori MBE, the London-based, multidisciplinary artist and designer, is also known as “The Architect of Joy”, rightly so for his vivacious creations, which span public art installations and colourful architecture.
Since founding his design studio in 2015, Ilori continually creates interest and admiration within the design world through upcycling vintage furniture and telling stories through everyday objects. He was made a Member of the British Empire (MBE) for services to Design in the 2021.
Today, his work has expanded into large-scale public commissions, pavilion designs, and retail collections. His latest large-scale project is the collaboration with home furnishing retailer, Dunelm.
A knighthood for architect extraordinaire David Adjaye
Image credit: Yinka Ilori x Dunelm
The collaboration fuses playful design, Nigerian heritage and 60s, 70s nostalgia.
This colourful capsule collection nods to shared heritage (British and Nigerian) and the coming together of communities, with original pieces across textiles, furniture, home decor and lighting.
Speaking about his collection, Ilori said: “This collection is really inspired by 60s and 70s nostalgia.
“Good design can be for everyone.”
“What struck me about Dunelm’s beginnings was their love for community. Growing up, community was everything for me. It was how we shared stories.
“Good design can be for everyone. It can change the world, change what we see and dream. I think it’s important we design objects that are rich in storytelling, that speak to people in different ways.”
Shop our favourite pieces from the collaboration
The Swivel Dining Chair
Image credit: Yinka Ilori x Dunelm
We love the pattern, which gives a playful nod to 70s nostalgia. Also, the swivel function gives a modern twist.
£149
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The Calabash Lamp
Image credit: Yinka Ilori x Dunelm
One of our favourite pieces in the collection, the Calabash Lamp references Ilori’s West African roots, where a calabash is a hollowed out drinking vessel or bowl.
£55
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The Rhythm Rug
Image credit: Yinka Ilori x Dunelm
Add a tasteful splash of colour and style to your flooring with this rug.
From £115 – £319
Shop here
The Sleeve Metal Chair
Image credit: Yinka Ilori x Dunelm
This boucle-covered metal chair will give your space an air of style and sophistication. The light-coloured fabric instantly elevates any area.
£299
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The Trumpet Steel Side Table
Image credit: Yinka Ilori x Dunelm
The side table gives pared back, yet stylish tones with its glass top and metallic frame. It also comes in a coffee table option too.
£99
Shop here
