The story behind UMOJA
UMOJA was shaped by movement by travel, by places, and by the quiet power of interiors that leave a mark. But it was also shaped by something constant: a deep connection to Africa, where its founder was born, in Congo.
Over time, one idea became clear: a home can do more than look beautiful it can hold identity. Not through loud statements, but through details that feel intentional, warm, and emotionally grounded.
Some spaces calm the mind the moment you enter. Others feel noisy, even when they’re “well decorated.” This sensitivity to atmosphere became the starting point: learning how form, light, and materials can create balance and how one sculptural object can shift the feeling of an entire room.
The gap: access to pieces that truly belong
or years, finding African-inspired decor that naturally fits modern interiors was difficult. What existed often felt too rare, too expensive, visually dated, or disconnected from contemporary design standards.
The most meaningful pieces were often the ones brought back in a suitcase gifts from family, objects found through chance rather than chosen with intention.
Yet the desire remained: to live with objects that carry roots and story, without depending on distance or timing. Not souvenirs but design pieces with presence. Pieces that integrate effortlessly in a contemporary space while bringing cultural depth, texture, and soul.
UMOJA: a contemporary design house of unity
UMOJA was created as an answer to that gap: a curated design house where modern form meets cultural memory with restraint and elegance.
The name UMOJA comes from Swahili and means “unity.” It reflects a belief that cultures don’t need to compete they can meet, blend, and elevate one another through design.
UMOJA’s approach is simple: fewer pieces, stronger presence. Balanced silhouettes, warm materials, quiet contrast objects that anchor a shelf, soften a corner, and bring calm to everyday life.
A long-term vision, built one piece at a time: interiors that feel harmonious, intentional, and alive.
