“A good design should be rich in storytelling that resonates with people differently,” says British-Nigerian designer Yinka Ilori. He carries this philosophy into his latest collaboration with Dunelm, the UK’s leading home furnishings retailer. Together, they bring joy and color to homes through vibrant and accessible furniture pieces. The new 40-piece Yinka Ilori x Dunelm home collection comprises chairs, lamps, side tables, duvets, and more that seem to fit right into a maximalist’s home, exuding nostalgic vibes of the 1970s and ’80s.
The collaboration marks the designer’s first complete furniture and homeware collection with Dunelm. He wanted it to be cheery and eclectic, and something to evoke a sense of community.
In a conversation with Dezeen, he points out, “The feel of materials, craftsmanship, love of community and just how design plays a big part in how we orchestrate joy and togetherness within the home. For me, as a kid, design was always at the forefront of that – whether a sofa, or a rug, or a curtain, or a light.”
The soulful pieces in the collection draw from colors and textures of loud communities of Nigeria and Leicester that he was part of growing up. However, the inspiration transcends oceans. According to Wallpaper, many pieces in the collection draw on diverse communities that transformed Leicester’s textile industry around the 20th century. There are floral patterns inspired by national flowers from countries like India and Pakistan, nodding to the city’s Asian, African, and Caribbean cultures.
According to Dunelm, “the collection celebrates playful design across textiles, furniture, home décor and lighting…Inspired by Dunelm’s Leicester origins and the diverse communities brought together by the 20th century textile boom, this collection centers joyful objects that resonate with real people and real life.”
The lineup is bold, effervescent, and summer-ready, and feels balmy to look at and uplifting to the touch. Let’s explore a few impressive pieces from the YinkIlori and Dunelm home collection that you should snag right away.
Half Moon Boucle Snuggle Chair
This snuggle chair is an ultimate conversation starter. It is chunky, plush, and playful, but also comfortable and strikingly contemporary. The chair is a bold design statement in your living room. Upholstered in a tactile ivory boucle, the chair’s soft contours create a cozy retreat for relaxing as its lavish proportions let you curl up in the utmost comfort. While it may not be retro in colors, its bulky silhouette certainly is.
Biscuit Pine Side Table
Biscuit is an unlikely name for a table. However, the table echoes the name with soft, rounded edges and a bold modern look. The pulsating color elevates the overall appearance, whereas the unexpected form turns the familiar object into a statement piece. You can pair it with the snuggle chair for a visually enlivening contrast.
Bell Touch Dimmable LED Table Lamp
Light up your home with this dimmable LED table lamp. The lamp fills a space with joy through its playful and sculptural design. It is eye-catching and classic, with a retro soul. The lamp features dual light sources and stunning, contrasting hues, casting ambient light at the base, while leading more focused light into the dome above.
Swivel Dining Chair
Redefine comfort and design with this dining chair. It swivels and makes a perfect statement piece for modern homes. Upholstered in the Sweet Flows green patterned fabric, the chair blends comfort with standout design. The chair’s shape is enveloping, embracing you in relaxation, while its smooth 360-degree swivel base brings effortless movement.
Kaleidoscope Wool Round Rug
Crafted from wool, this kaleidoscopic rug is downright beautiful. Inspired by nature, the rug is perfect to bring playful energy and vibrancy into your home. It is easy to maintain, cozy, and adds a layer of warmth into your living space.
These are a few pieces from the collection that made our jaw drop. So, what are you waiting for? Add a slice of the ’70s and ’80s into your home with this impressively detailed and eclectic collection.
