Africa, a continent of colours, textures and stories, offers an inexhaustible source of inspiration for the world of interior design. Through its talented craftspeople and innovative designers, Africa proves to be a treasure trove, skilfully blending tradition and…
Africa, a continent of colours, textures and stories, offers an inexhaustible source of inspiration for the world of interior design. Through its talented artisans and innovative designers, Africa proves to be a treasure trove, skilfully blending tradition and modernity. This article aims to introduce you to five African creations that embody the spirit and richness of ‘Made in Africa’ design. These pieces, chosen for their originality, their commitment to local craftsmanship and their ability to transform spaces with character and elegance, reflect a continent in the midst of a creative boom.
Dibi Chair - Mali
I deeply admire Cheick Diallo’s creations for their ability to transcend the simple piece of furniture to become true works of art! Diallo’s furniture, with its interplay of volume and its fluid, airy lines, is not merely functional; it invites us to rethink our relationship with space and objects. His works—be they chairs, cupboards or lamps—demonstrate his exceptional talent for transforming materials such as nylon thread, used tyres, glass bottle bases and recycled metal into luxury objects. This approach offers a constant reflection on the importance of the environment and sustainable development. His creations, characterised by volumes that play on clean, elegant lines, have captivated a global audience, from art galleries to the most prestigious exhibitions and biennials. 
Baskets - Rwanda
I am particularly fond of Rwandan baskets for their versatility and beauty. These items, which can be used as trivets and placemats in their flat versions, or as elegant fruit or bread baskets, or for various other storage purposes in their hollow versions, embody the essence of ‘Made in Rwanda’. Entirely hand-woven, these baskets are a symbol of environmentally friendly craftsmanship. They are made from straw wrapped in sisal fibres, a plant from which the fibre—initially white—is extracted by hand and then dyed using mainly eco-friendly colours. This process creates the patterns that adorn each finished product. (©Kicirrwanda)
Bronze figurines – Burkina Faso
I am drawn to the bronze statuettes from Burkina Faso for their elegant depiction of female figures, delicately capturing the details of the accessories that accompany them. These pieces are not merely decorative objects; they reflect a rich culture and exceptional craftsmanship: the lost-wax technique, an ancestral art form. Each statuette tells a story, that of a heritage passed down from generation to generation, where the art of bronze serves as the guardian of Burkinabe memory and identity. (©Boureima Ouedraogo)
Woven pagne armchair – Senegal
Woven pagne, traditionally associated with the Manjak tribes of southern Senegal and northern Guinea, is a fabric of choice for special occasions such as weddings, christenings, initiation rites and funerals. Inspired by the richness of this fabric, the founders of the Senegalese brand Tisserand have chosen to transform it into a range of interior décor items and fashion accessories.I love this midnight blue chair for several reasons. Firstly, its deep, rich hue evokes the serene beauty of the night sky. Midnight blue is a colour that catches the eye whilst blending perfectly with a variety of interior styles, from modern and minimalist to the most traditional and opulent. This particular shade of blue adds a touch of sophistication and elegance to any space. This armchair can serve as a bold centrepiece or complement other elements in the room. (©Tisserand Sénégal)
Wall hooks - Ghana
I love these brass wall hooks for their aesthetics and functionality. Their hand-moulded diamond shape brings a touch of originality and elegance to any space. They serve not only as wall décor but also offer a practical solution for hanging lightweight items such as jewellery, clutches and scarves, thereby enhancing both the organisation and beauty of the interior. These pieces, crafted in Kumasi, Ghana, using the traditional lost-wax technique, are a testament to exceptional craftsmanship. The process, in which a wax mould is created, coated in dung and clay, then melted away to reveal recycled brass, illustrates the magic of craftsmanship and the transformation of materials. Each piece is unique. (© Golden editions) 