THEURBANATIVE
Design Shaped by African Narratives
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AYA COLLECTION 2020-
Selection of pieces from our Aya Collection, originally designed in 2020, this body of work centres on the Adinkra symbol Aya, pronounced “eye-ah,” representing resourcefulness and endurance. Conceived as a living collection, Aya continues to evolve over time, with pieces from the original design phase being released gradually as the years unfold. This evolution reflects the nature of the African fern itself, which adapts, regenerates, and grows through changing conditions. In the same way, the collection expands through ongoing exploration of materials and the application of new technologies, allowing each release to build on what came before while remaining rooted in the original concept.
At the core of the collection is the influence of Adinkra symbols, originating from the Ashanti and Akan kingdoms of West Africa. Each symbol represents a concept grounded in shared values and ideals. The collection focuses on Aya, one of more than 700 Adinkra symbols linked to the Gyaman kingdom. Aya, meaning “fern,” signifies the ability to overcome adversity, inspired by the resilience of the hardy West African fern.
The materials used throughout the collection include powder-coated recycled steel, reclaimed ostrich egg, timber, and brass elements. These are intentionally selected to reflect the deeper meaning of the symbol through layered materiality and thoughtful making.


INFINITE AYA CONSOLE
in Collaboration with
AVOOVA
Year of design: 2024
Year of creation: 2024
Description:
This console unit features a sturdy framework made of powder-coated mild steel bars and sheet, ensuring durability and a sleek appearance. The surface showcases a mosaic of reclaimed ostrich egg shells embedded in epoxy for a unique, eco-friendly touch. Brass elements highlights a play on abstracted shapes of the Aya symbol.
Dimensions:
(Height x Length x Depth in cm)
160 cm x 60 cm x 82 cm

AYA OBELISK
in Collaboration with
AVOOVA
Year of design: 2020
Year of creation: 2024
Description:
This contemporary floor lamp boasts a modern design silhouette with a powder-coated mild steel frame in laser-cut plates. The lampshade showcases the unique AVOOVA mosaic crafted from reclaimed ostrich egg shells in epoxy, supported by a solid oak tray.
Dimensions:
(Height x Length x Depth in cm)
150 cm x 38 cm x 38 cm


AYA MIRROR
in Collaboration with
AVOOVA
Year of design: 2020
Year of creation: 2024
Description:
This contemporary floor mirror is crafted with a steel frame, grey mirror surface and a details in AVOOVA’s mosaic of reclaimed ostrich egg shells in epoxy. Brass accents embedded in the solid oak base add to the layered story of the fern and the embedded meanings behind Andinkra symbols.
Dimensions:
(Height x Length x Depth in cm)
183,5 cm x 51,5 cm x 61 cm
AYA LAMP
Year of design: 2020
Year of creation: 2021
Description:
The Aya lamp draw inspiration from Adinkra symbols, originating in the Ashanti and Akan kingdoms of West Africa(spanning Senegal to Nigeria). Each Adinkra symbol embodies concepts and ideals to be practiced or embodied in life.
The lamp is based on the fern symbol, representing endurance and resourcefulness. The Aya table lamp is crafted from powder-coated steel and features a solid ash timber tray.
Dimensions:
(Height x Length x Depth in cm)
47,5 cm x 20 cm x 20 cm



AYA VESSELS I & II
ENDURANCE & REGROWTH
Year of design: 2020
Year of creation: 2026
Description:
This series of contemporary vessels presents a sculptural yet restrained language, combining powder-coated mild steel bodies with layered stepped detailing and solid timber bases. The cylindrical forms are punctuated by subtle stacked rings that introduce rhythm and grounding, while brass-plated circular tab details add a considered accent, balancing utility with ornament. The contrast between matte metal, warm timber, and brass creates a quiet material dialogue, allowing each piece to read as both functional object and collectible form.
In exploring the messages of resilience and resourcefulness carried by the Aya symbol, the collection embraces a layered material approach. Steel, timber, and brass are combined to highlight their individual character while functioning together as a unified whole. Each vessel becomes an expression of endurance through structure, material integrity, and thoughtful making, translating cultural narrative into contemporary form.
Dimensions:
(Height x Length x Depth in cm)
Vessel !: 28 cm x 12 cm x 16 cm
Vessel II: 26 cm x 12 cm x 16,5 cm



AYA TRAY 1
GROUNDING
Year of design: 2020
Year of creation: 2026
Description:
This contemporary tray explores sculptural form through the interplay of reclaimed timber and a powder-coated mild steel frame. The circular composition reveals a carefully balanced arrangement of contrasting wood tones, shaped into flowing geometric segments that suggest movement and continuity. Each timber component is selected from reclaimed material, allowing the natural grain, colour variation, and history of the wood to become an integral part of the design. As a result, no two pieces are alike, with every vessel carrying its own unique character and story.
In exploring the themes of endurance and resourcefulness embodied by the Aya symbol, the vessel embraces a layered material approach. Reclaimed timber is given renewed purpose within a precise steel framework, celebrating both sustainability and craftsmanship. The piece becomes an expression of transformation, where material history and contemporary design converge to create an object that is both functional and collectible.
Dimensions:
(Height x Length x Depth in cm)
Aya tray !: 34 cm x 300 cm x 70 cm










