Look around your home and lock eyes on a piece of art that makes your heart flutter. We would be pretty confident in assuming that there is a story that goes with the initial purchase. We have experienced a time where long-haul travel and exotic destinations have not been easily accessible. However, this doesn’t mean that you can’t explore virtually and bring new, emotive design pieces into your home.
Photo, Paul Milley.
Zambia is a land-locked Southern African country. Previously known as Northern Rhodesia before independence in 1964, Zambia is a peaceful nation that boasts more than 72 distinct local tribes and dialects. Perhaps most famous for having the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Victoria Falls, the country also has a rich history and is one of the final burial grounds for the famous explorer, Dr. David Livingstone.
Recently, Zambia’s artisans have been able to harness the power of the internet for getting their products out to a broader market. Though still relatively unknown on the international market, the main drawcard of Zambian design is the authentic story that comes with the product. Save some money on your homeowners insurance quotes and then treat yourself to one of the affordable products on our list. Zambia may be a country where unemployment is rife, but people continue to smile and sing while they work. Your investment can make a significant difference in people’s lives. We are happy to show you how to bring Zambian design elements into your home.
Tableware: Every meal deserves a beautifully laid-out table. Moreover, the elements that you put on your dinner table can be expectational conversation starters or ice-breakers during a dinner party. The ultimate inspiration for bright, fun, and funky table linen has to be Tina Pointe, the owner of the luxurious Royal Chundu Lodge on the banks of the Zambezi River. Through Zambezi Joy Society, they have linked ecstatic customers worldwide with rural makers and ensured sustainable employment.
Abanya is another recently launched collection of Zambian crafts and homewares. The Juliet placemats are a particular favorite of ours. The patterns are typical of African design while being monochromatic to blend with any table accessories. These placemats are available in two sizes and are made using traditional weaving methods while upcycling plastic.
Lusaka Collective.
Baskets: The natural aesthetic of a hand-woven basket will fit with any home interiors. Zambians are famous for producing stunning basket ware in all shapes and sizes. Some are functional, whereas others are simply decorative. There is no need to limit baskets to tables or floors; a collection of an odd number of baskets makes for an impressive statement wall while being amazingly affordable. Have a look through the Lusaka Collective website for inspiration.
Kids Rooms: When it comes to interior design, children’s spaces are inevitably the most fun area to stretch your creativity. Take a peek at the bright and playful designs from Tribal Textiles, based in northern Zambia. All of their batiks are hand-painted, and they have a vast collection of cushion covers, growth charts, and wall hangings that would put a smile on anyone’s face.
We hope that we have given you some inspiration about how you can continue traveling the world and bringing design elements from far-off destinations into your home. By shopping directly from suppliers in Zambia, you can also guarantee that your purchases positively impact the communities they support.
