Mimi Shodeinde’s Miminat Designs Opens a Jewel Box Space in London

For more than two years Mimi Shodeinde searched for the perfect building for her studio, Miminat Designs. The British-Nigerian artist and designer envisioned a showroom and exhibition space where she could highlight her existing work and focus on her next collections. “I didn’t want it to be like a typical gallery or too heavily curated,” says Shodeinde. “It has a lightness to it as a showcase for a selection of my signature pieces.”

Shodeinde found the bi-level, 883-square-foot space nestled in the St. John’s Wood neighborhood in London, a serendipitous moment for the Beatles fan, who felt an instant connection to the surroundings. She not only appreciated the good bones of the building, but also the music history – the famed Abbey Road Studios is nearby.

As she began to transform the space, which she describes as “all glitter” in its original state, Shodeinde envisioned a jewel box-like setting. The first floor serves as a gallery, with a series of sculptural furniture and light fixtures alongside a collection of artworks. On the second floor, a materials library holds a range of samples, from fabrics to glass and metal. Sparking discovery at every turn, this area is an immersive haven that reflects the studio’s appreciation for the sensory experience of touch.

An arch motif echoes throughout the showroom, reminiscent of classical architecture as well as Shodeinde’s own design language, which emphasizes an interplay between structure and fluidity. For the color palette, she looked to her recent travels across the globe for inspiration. She sought to capture the essence of the sacred spaces she visited in Saudi Arabia, particularly the mosques of Mecca. Rather than enveloping the interiors in a pure white, Shodeinde opted for a palette with surprising depth via tonal variations plus gray, brown, cream, and ebony tones.

A range of textured finishes enlivens the showroom with unexpected combinations. Limewash walls and microcement floors complement the raw beauty of stone. Deeply grained woods are brushed, hammered, and burnt for unique surface treatments paired with rich leather. Chrome accents add a bit of shine.

Highlights now on view include the NRIN vessel reimagined in a crimson shade, and the Howard Daybed, an homage to magnate-pilot Howard Hughes, rendered in travertine, brushed stainless steel, and plush upholstery. The first gallery takeover features the work of linguist turned artist Alexandra Yan Wong. By appointment only, visitors can expect a full calendar of exhibits and installations that will rotate during the year.

For Shodeinde, the showroom is more than brick and mortar, it represents her philosophy. “I appreciate beauty in all aspects of life,” she notes. “It’s nice to be here with my team in such a personal space as we make these beautiful objects.”

Mimi Shodeinde

For more information on Mimi Shodeinde or Miminat Designs, visit miminat.com.

Photography by Felix Speller and Genevieve Lutkin.