Pop-Up Store
Yinka Ilori

Yinka Ilori launched his first pop-up store in Shoreditch, East London. Drawing inspiration from West African architecture, Ilori created a unique retail environment which features his recent collection of products alongside new launches.

Ilori launched his debut homeware collection in 2020 at the height of the pandemic. Tableware and textiles in bold colours and patterns referenced his British-Nigerian heritage and upbringing as well as local London scenery. Ilori’s collection reworked unexpected, functional household items as artworks to inject joy and optimism into our living environments. He has since launched a range of products that span homeware and lifestyle that encourage a sense of playfulness.

With this pop-up, Ilori addresses the current creative state of retail as the sector continues to face challenges. He aims to explore how stores can encourage consumers to connect, experience and discover in a continuation of design work that is inspired by his heritage and storytelling. Recalling the houses and mosques found in Burkina Faso, he has created a new typology and design language, translating vernacular architectural forms into colourful display units. The store is dominated by blues, greens, pinks and violets used to create a sense of hope and optimism.

“The high street plays such an important role in our communities but in recent years we have experienced a steep decline with many independent businesses struggling. With this pop-up I wanted to bring retail back and design a fun, engaging space that tells a story. I want to start a conversation about the future of our stores, how we curate these spaces and what experiences we can create to forge deeper, more meaningful connections.”

Client
Yinka Ilori

Practice
Interior design