Craft that belongs in the room
Bring regional craft into screens, joinery, lighting and furniture through a small, testable material palette.
NDUNGU · Editorial draft · 1 min read
Start with the room’s job
Before choosing a pattern, decide what the element must do. A screen might frame a view or improve privacy; joinery might organise an awkward edge. Let its function, setting and proportions guide the design.
Make a sample before a roomful
Compare a small sample against adjacent materials in the actual light. Agree the finish, cleaning needs, fixings and edges with the maker. Record any craft references and credit collaborators rather than treating every African tradition as one interchangeable style.
A modest change at home
Rearrange existing furniture to give one made object room to be seen, or group a few pieces by material. Test the arrangement before buying more. Keep paths and door swings clear; electrical, structural and suspended elements need the appropriate specialist input.