MOYO OGUNSEINDE

We chat to the founder of Nigerian design brand the Àga concept

What makes your utensils unique?

Our products are unique because they tell stories that connect you to our unique African culture. Through form, texture and colour, we want you to feel connected to Africa and all the emotions it conjures.

What’s behind the name, Àga Concept?

“Àga” is a Yoruba word and Yoruba is an ethnic culture and language widely spoken across West Africa. It means a “functional object” or “furniture piece” for any part of the home or space.

Your products are ‘inspired by culture and everyday living in Africa’. Tell us more

Our main source of inspiration is my childhood and everyday living experiences in Africa, particularly Nigeria, where I come from. The diversity and intensity of cultural energy found in food, fashion, music, history, cities and in life in general fuels our passion for design. So we want to share these experiences through objects and furniture. What materials do you work with?

We started off using wood, then gradually added iron, bronze and other locally available materials. We are always exploring materials that can bring out the products in the most authentic way possible. We want the rawness and simplicity of the products we create to evoke emotions of culture and deeper connection to Yoruba culture and Africa in general. So any material we work with must lend credence to our ethos.

You design all the products. How are they produced? We work with a team of artisans in and around Lagos and other parts of Africa to bring our ideas to life. They are masters of their art and it is extremely satisfying to have each product made by hand. Our team is made up of woodcarvers, metalsmiths, sculptors and artists who work with a variety of materials to ensure we achieve our design goals, functions and aesthetic. We love the relationship we have built with them and consider them part of the Àga family.

Your favourite dish to cook with your utensils?

I love using our platters to serve grilled plantains with a peppery tomato sauce and giant West African snails.

What are your dreams for Àga?

Our desire is to see Àga becoming a global design brand; designing for retailers, manufacturers, brands and cultural institutions that appreciate our aesthetic and point of view — Africa meets minimalism.