Fashion designer Armando Cabral has partnered with USM Modular Furniture to unveil NKYINKYIM, a collection that merges West African heritage with modern design. This collaboration presents a fresh perspective on functional home furnishings, blending Cabral’s cultural influences with USM’s signature modular aesthetic.
The collection features a range of striking pieces, including a bookshelf, storage bed, end table, and tray, all designed with a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and history. The name NKYINKYIM is derived from an Adinkra symbol of the Akan people, representing life’s journey through progress and challenges. The influence of this symbol is reflected in the intricate construction of each piece, embodying movement and transformation.
A Fusion of Heritage and Innovation
Cabral’s background in fashion and design plays a pivotal role in shaping the aesthetic of NKYINKYIM. His ability to balance form and function is evident throughout the collection, where traditional elements from West African culture intersect with USM’s signature modular approach.
The bookshelf is a standout, its winding form echoing the NKYINKYIM symbol. Designed with four main structural legs, it reflects the seamless integration of heritage-inspired design and USM’s modular framework. This approach extends to the storage bed, which features a bold orange finish, an extended headboard, and built-in nightstands, creating a statement piece that is both practical and visually engaging.
Another highlight is the semi-upholstered armchair, crafted in olive green with brown patterned cushions. This piece embodies Cabral’s signature style, merging textural elements with contemporary functionality. The collection also includes a minimalist end table and tray, both designed to enhance everyday living spaces with thoughtful craftsmanship.
The Meaning Behind the Collection
The collaboration between Cabral and USM is more than a design project—it’s an exploration of cultural storytelling through furniture. By drawing from the symbolism of NKYINKYIM, Cabral brings a layer of depth and narrative to each creation.
“To me, the modular nature of USM’s designs symbolizes that—the way each component forms a cohesive, functional structure,” Cabral stated in a press release. This perspective aligns with USM’s philosophy of adaptable design, reinforcing the idea that furniture should evolve with the user’s needs.
The collection serves as a visual representation of progress, transformation, and interconnectedness, themes deeply rooted in both Cabral’s personal experiences and the broader West African cultural landscape.
Showcasing at USM Soho
The NKYINKYIM collection is currently on display at USM’s Soho showroom, where visitors can experience the designs firsthand. Running from February 12 through May 1, the installation features Cabral’s work alongside curated pieces from Rruka, Fefo Studio, Amalia Home Collection, Nordic Knots, Alkemis Paints, and Savior Beds.
This carefully selected mix of homeware brands and artists further enhances the exhibit, creating a space that celebrates heritage, craftsmanship, and design innovation.
For those interested in experiencing NKYINKYIM in person, the showroom provides an opportunity to see how the pieces interact within a thoughtfully curated interior setting. The exhibition offers a chance to explore how Cabral’s fashion sensibilities translate into home furnishings, reinforcing his reputation as a designer whose vision transcends disciplines.
Bridging Fashion and Home Design
Cabral’s work in fashion has always emphasized elegance, structure, and cultural influence. This collaboration with USM Modular Furniture marks an expansion of his creative vision, allowing him to explore how cultural identity can be woven into interior spaces.
By incorporating elements of modular functionality and West African storytelling, the NKYINKYIM collection showcases a unique dialogue between tradition and modernity. The result is a visually compelling range of furniture that maintains both aesthetic integrity and practicality.
With this partnership, Cabral and USM have not only redefined contemporary furniture design but also created a collection that honors heritage, adaptability, and the power of storytelling through craftsmanship.
For more details, visit USM Modular Furniture and explore the NKYINKYIM collection before the exhibition closes on May 1.
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