Abu Dhabi: A January of Design Inspiration, Elegance & Colour

The year has had a full-on start — and I’m not even trying to pretend it hasn’t.

I was fortunate enough to spend the Christmas break in Dubai, soaking up the warmth, the energy, and that special feeling of being somewhere completely different. After returning briefly to London (with a quick stop in Germany), I headed straight back out again — this time to Abu Dhabi, where I was honoured to exhibit at Ataya.

It’s safe to say I’m still on cloud seven… and now I have to gently bring myself back into real life in the studio here in London.

Ataya: A beautifully curated event with purpose

Ataya is a truly special showcase — not just because of the creative talent it brings together, but because it has heart. There is a strong charitable aspect woven into the event, and you can feel that sense of meaning and community in the atmosphere.

What I found especially striking is how Ataya attracts local Emirati women, whose style and elegance are simply captivating. Their presence added such a sense of refinement and occasion — and I left feeling genuinely inspired, not only by the design on display, but by the way fashion, culture and confidence were expressed so effortlessly.

The African Pavilion: craft, creativity and global talent

One of the most memorable parts of my time at Ataya was being selected to showcase within the African Pavilion — a space filled with creativity, craftsmanship, and talented makers from across the continent and beyond.

I was showcasing alongside the wonderful sisters from Studio Ananta, and I have to say — I completely fell in love with their breathtaking work from their Cape Town design studio. They create the most mesmerising beaded vases, and they truly felt like pure artistry — intricate, sculptural and full of presence. The kind of pieces that make you stop mid-step because the workmanship is so detailed and so beautifully executed. Being surrounded by creators like that felt energising and affirming — it reminded me how powerful design can be when it carries story, culture and skill.

What we showcased: furniture, lampshades and tabletop moments

Ataya was also an exciting moment for us, because we were able to introduce a selection of our newest pieces to a completely new audience — and I loved seeing how warmly they were received.

We presented parts of the Robert Langford x Eva Sonaike furniture collaboration, which blends timeless silhouettes with statement textiles and a refined, modern sense of luxury. It’s a collection rooted in craftsmanship and character — pieces designed to elevate a space while still feeling personal and lived-in.

Alongside this, we launched new lampshades in Ayo Blue and Ife Beige. I always say lighting is one of the most underrated design tools — because a lampshade isn’t just functional, it creates mood. It softens, warms and finishes a room, especially when pattern is used in a way that feels elegant and intentional.

And of course, we also showcased pieces from our tabletop collection, because setting the table is one of the simplest ways to bring beauty into everyday life. For me, dining is never just about food — it’s about connection, laughter, and the atmosphere we create for the people we love.

A little cultural inspiration: the Mosque and the Louvre

Whenever I travel, I always make sure to immerse myself in the culture — to really understand and feel the places I visit. So visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi was on my bucket list.

I was completely mesmerised by its beauty and quiet grandeur. Despite its incredible scale, there is such a sense of calm. The level of craftsmanship and the attention to detail are another level — every surface, proportion and pattern inspired me, and seeing it through my design eyes made the experience even more powerful.

I also visited the Louvre Abu Dhabi again, and once more I found myself just as taken aback by the building as I was by the art. The dome overhead and the shadow play beneath it feels almost poetic — a reminder that design doesn’t only live in objects, but in light, movement and mood.

Back in London: inspired, energised and ready for what’s next

Now I’m back in London, starting the year slightly later — but full of inspiration and excitement for what’s to come.

I’ve definitely learned, experienced and grown so much in these first twenty days, and I already know I’ll be applying that growth directly to the business this year — creatively, commercially, and with a wider vision of where we can go next.

We’re also looking ahead to our new Eyo collection launch later this spring, and I cannot wait to share more soon.

Want to use colour in your home with confidence?

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