Shakara

The studio is thrilled to share our latest collaboration with award-winning architects Red Deer: Shakara, a modern West African restaurant and cocktail bar on Baker Street, Marylebone.

Spanning 6,000 sq ft, Shakara is a celebration of West African culture, blending rich heritage with contemporary design. From terracotta tiles echoing Nigeria’s iconic red soil to curated artworks in partnership with Red Door Gallery, every detail reflects the vibrancy and depth of African artistry.

Founder Jolly Cole shares his vision:
"Shakara was born from a simple concept – to export the African palette to the world whilst maintaining international standards. Our aim is to entice the five senses—taste, sound, smell, sight, and touch—to create the most memorable experience."

Beyond hospitality, our work in the residential space continues with the near completion of a private residence in Holland Park. We have carefully sourced luxurious fabrics from Perennials, Ferm Living, and Monologue London, creating an elevated neutral African inspired palette. Collaborating closely with the client, we’ve crafted a space that balances warmth, sophistication, and cultural resonance. We look forward to sharing more soon.

Looking ahead, we’re expanding our engagement with international design events. This year, we’ll be attending 3 Days of Design in Copenhagen for the first time—an exciting shift after nearly a decade of visiting Milan. We are eager to explore new perspectives and immerse ourselves in fresh creative dialogues.

And finally, outside the world of interiors, we found Schiaparelli’s Spring 2025 Couture Collection deeply inspiring. The collection’s sculptural silhouettes, colour and intricate craftsmanship reminded us of the parallels between fashion and interior architecture—where form, texture, and storytelling merge seamlessly.

We’d love to hear from you —

Until next time,

Tola Ojuolape Studio