Black History Month is always a meaningful time for me. As the daughter of Nigerian parents raised in Germany, I’ve experienced first-hand the richness and diversity of cultures – and I carry that sense of identity into my design work.
When I founded Eva Sonaike, my mission was to bring the vibrancy of West African heritage into contemporary interiors. I believe that design is more than just aesthetics: it’s about telling stories through colour, pattern, and thoughtful craftsmanship.
The Power of Storytelling in Design
Every collection I create draws on memory, culture, and personal heritage. Our cushions, wallpapers, and fabrics – all made from high-quality organic cotton – carry cultural motifs and colour palettes that evoke history yet feel fresh and modern.
Design, for me, is about creating meaningful spaces. A bold pattern can become a conversation starter; a neutral tone can bring balance and serenity; a well-made piece of furniture can hold stories for generations.
“Colour is life, and pattern is memory” – this belief has guided me throughout my journey as a designer.
The Robert Langford x Eva Sonaike Collaboration
This ethos of meaningful design has come to life beautifully in our exclusive furniture collaboration with Robert Langford, launched at the Design Centre Chelsea Harbour.
This collection was created to make the language of colour and pattern more accessible – we softened our signature palettes into gentle beiges and warm blues, creating pieces that introduce colour in a subtle, sophisticated way.
I’m delighted that the collection has been recognised with the Livingetc Style Award for Best Furniture Collaboration 2025, a testament to the power of collaboration and cultural storytelling in modern interiors.
Shapes, Styles, and Versatility
One of the reasons I love this collaboration is the versatility of the collection’s pieces. Each design combines thoughtful shape, function, and cultural resonance, allowing them to complement a wide range of interior styles – from contemporary minimalism to warm, layered eclectic homes.
Some of my favourite highlights include:
Swivel Chairs (Ayo Blue and Ife Beige)
These sculptural chairs are bold yet timeless. They work as statement pieces in living rooms, add style and comfort to a dressing table corner, or become a focal point in a bedroom. Their compact, elegant form makes them a seamless fit in both grand and more intimate spaces.
Accent Benches (Batik Sky and Ife Beige)
I love how these benches bring function and beauty together. Place them at the end of a bed for a refined bedroom accent, in a hallway as welcoming feature seating, or even as extra seating around a coffee table for relaxed gatherings. Their sleek shape and tactile fabrics add warmth wherever they’re used.
Round Ottomans (Ayo Blue and Ife Beige)
These playful, soft pieces are wonderful for introducing colour into neutral spaces. They work as both occasional seating and decorative accents, adding character to living rooms, bedrooms, or boutique hotel-style lounges.
Batik Ottoman Coffee Tables (Beige and Sky)
One of my personal favourites in the collection. These tables embody the idea of style meeting functionality with their integrated wooden inlay top, which is as practical as it is elegant. They serve as a stylish centrepiece in living spaces, combining cultural storytelling with modern versatility.
A New Chapter for Colour in Interiors
This collaboration with Robert Langford reflects my belief that colour and pattern should feel approachable and adaptable. By softening the tones – from vibrant signature prints to calming beiges and welcoming blues – we’ve created pieces that are not only beautiful but also easy to integrate into a wide variety of design schemes.
The collection embodies everything I value in design: storytelling, craftsmanship, versatility, and inclusivity. Whether you’re furnishing a city apartment, a country retreat, or a boutique hospitality space, these pieces invite both comfort and conversation.
Celebrating Black History Month Through Design
Black History Month reminds us of the power of heritage and creativity in shaping our shared cultural narrative. For me, it’s a time to honour the stories behind our designs and celebrate the craftsmanship that keeps those stories alive.
The Robert Langford x Eva Sonaike Collection is an expression of that – a bridge between heritage and modernity, offering pieces that allow anyone to embrace the richness of colour, culture, and meaning in their home.
If you want more tips on how to live a colourful life, download my free colour guide full of tips & techniques to help you introduce colour to your home with style and confidence.
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