Nigerian American designer Ini Archibong makes major moves in the European luxury furniture market.

Ini charts his path to design with European luxury brands.

When they say “The glow up is real” it’s really blazing for Ini Archibong. Ini is an American born 1st generation Nigerian designer, who is now based in Switzerland. My first time discovering the work of Archibong was after following the Instagram account of Gallery Rossana Orlandi. The Milanese eponymous gallery headed by Orlandi is known for forecasting new and upcoming and established designers.  Rossana is an important figure in the design world. Think of her as the Anna Wintour of contemporary design. The works that are selected for her gallery are revered for their experimental nature and leading-edge design and thinking. So, needless to say, when Rossana Orlandi touches you, your career in design is made.

Ini was selected to design its IV collection titled “Below The Heavens,” that debuted during Salone del Mobile April 2018.

It was after he graduated from Switzerland’s L’École Cantonale d’Art de Lausanne that he really got a foot in the door to design with luxury brands. He spent his undergraduate years at Pasadena’s Art Center College in California. 

His first major break came in 2015 when he designed “In the Secret Garden,” a collection inspired by fairy tales and mythology Ini is now designing for Sé, a luxury designer brand headquartered in London and fabricated around Europe. Ini was selected to design its IV collection titled “Below The Heavens,” that debuted during Salone del Mobile April 2018. “Sé creates objects that celebrate character, sculptural profiles, and an ability to captivate the senses”. The series, which totals more than 20 pieces will be all launched within the next two years. They showcase his affinity for color and gorgeous materials, resulting in playful functional sculpture.

“As a minority anywhere rising through the ranks, you don’t have a lot of people who look like you saying there’s a path toward success,” he says. “Not seeing examples of myself out there, I created my own version of what it means to succeed.” Tiffany Jow, Surface Magazine 

It’s really amazing that Ini has transcended the ranks and moved up to become a sought-after designer for such luxury coveted lifestyle brands. He’s one only a handful that has made this mark. Ini’s childhood had a big impact on his design philosophy. His objects reference Southern California’s hip-hop culture—graffiti, lowrider cars, big rope chains—through gold-toned details and polished surfaces, and Nigerian culture via bright hues and rhythmic energy. Although he’s in a very rare position for black designers he is taking it in stride and not letting it stop him “As a minority anywhere rising through the ranks, you don’t have a lot of people who look like you saying there’s a path toward success,” he says. “Not seeing examples of myself out there, I created my own version of what it means to succeed.” Tiffany Jow, Surface Magazine 

Gaea pendant shown on the left is from the latest collection by Se. The ceramic beads amazing here with the cocoon-shaped shade.

The Moirai Chandelier design is inspired by a “constellation of clouds”. Created by the glass technique of cold-working, it has three main families of shades. 

Gaea Pendant  Image ©  Se Collections

The Circe chair is very inviting and playful with a harp-like back that seems to give you good posture. Shown with the Eos table. A cantilevered disc sits atop a ceramic or lacquered base: akin to the sun rising over a horizon.

Circe Sofa Image ©  Se Collections

Atlas Bench features a marble node acting as a discreet and precious bond between the bench’s elegant legs and marble seat. It reminds me of ancient stone ruins. ♥

Helios Horizon    Image ©  Se Collections

Occasional tables with ceramic or lacquered bases are arranged together to appear as planetary bodies in orbit.

Sè showroom London               Image ©  Se Collections

To see more of the Se Collections visit here.