Mimi Shodeinde is challenging preconceived ideas about African design. In London, her design and interior architecture studio, Miminat Designs, is developing its own particular language—one characterized by rich material palettes, and based on her intuition. “My intention is to produce design that speaks to my journey as a British Nigerian,” she says. “I want to express my culture in my work.”

Nana Biamah-Ofosu: How do you imagine people living with your work?

Mimi Shodeinde: I want people to feel proud, and for it to afford them a feeling of home as a sanctuary. I appreciate how fortunate I’ve been to have clients who are in the position to spend the amount that they do on my work, and I want them to be fully immersed in the experience of my objects, furniture and spaces.

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