DIY, Recycling and Upcycling

In Lagos, often times, if you want something done right, you have to do it yourself. This applies most especially when it comes to design. Working with artisans takes a special type of skill that they simply don’t teach you in school. As a woman, you are politely brushed to the side until other consultants and workers see the value you bring. Then, and only then, do you become “Aunty”.

Our culture teaches us that if you can pay someone cheaper to get the job done, then use that avenue. We have generally become lethargic and unwilling to use our hands to do much of anything. Fast-forward to a new wave of African product designers, who are taking the world by storm. The hiccups in our manufacturing sector in Lagos have only aided their creativity, and have made it easier for like-minds to come together. This week’s feature is a mover and shaker doing it herself, and doing it well:

  Rubber Tires for Play

Bubu Ogisi, a fashion designer turned multi-disciplinary phenomenon came up with a series of colour coded stools and tables that debuted at her showroom. Afterwards, she produced furniture for children’s parties. Her method is quite simple. She uses a composition of wood, glass, rubber tyres, and high gloss paint to arrive at her home ware collection. It was at her showroom I witnessed the greatness, first hand. Luckily, I went on a Sunday and Bubu and her team were in the middle of rearranging the interior of the showroom.

Located in Victoria Island, the retail flagship store combines minimalist ideals that are genuinely and unapologetically African. The first thing to hit me was the bicycle installation; upside down and painted white, with hay hanging in the tyres. Next, I was drawn to the monochrome stools at the central area. This section of the room houses her fashion collection so there is a play of fabric-covered hangers, as well as racks, also DIY’d. The cash warp is done in a similar style, but I am unsure if the designer did this piece herself, or had it manufactured and fit-for-purpose. The minimalist ideal is seen within the framing of the whitewashed walls and display stands. Ogisi used this shade as a backdrop for the apparel showcase.

A space tucked quietly in the back of the store is mainly where the furniture collection is predominantly seen. Stacks of rubber wheels form a table with a glass top, surrounded by stools. Art by Addie Mak laces the walls, but one in particular is placed on a stool with my most favorite cultural element in the space- a Ghanaian masquerade doll (which I plan to steal). The combined elements in the space make for an enjoyable experience of contemporary African interiors, which are popping up at every corner.

The multi-dimensional designer is not stopped by the confines of the fashion world. Instead, she uses it as a platform to launch her creativity. Leaving the space, you see the signage of the concept store, also done in the reoccurring recycled theme. Should you wish to go to the space now, it’s located at No. 16, Karimu Kotun. The showroom is an ever-changing space and what is shown in the pictures is not what you will see when you get in. Hint: something metallic is happening on the walls. Tell her I sent you…