Salone del Mobile Makes Historic Debut at Design Week Lagos 2026
The internationally renowned Salone del Mobile. Milano made its debut in Nigeria at Design Week Lagos 2026, bringing together global design experts and leading African creatives for a celebration of innovation, craftsmanship and cultural exchange.
The event took place at the National Theatre in Lagos, attracting international representatives, Nigerian architects, interior designers, business leaders and cultural figures. The gathering highlighted the growing opportunities for African designers to connect with international markets and contribute to the global design industry.
The visit also strengthened the relationship between Nigeria’s creative sector and Italy’s established furniture and interior design industry.
Italian Design Leaders Visit Lagos
The Italian delegation included Marco Sabetta, general manager of Salone del Mobile, and Marva Griffin Wilshire, founder and curator of SaloneSatellite, a platform known for showcasing emerging design talent.
Their participation highlighted the importance of collaboration between established international design institutions and Africa’s growing creative community.
The engagement also provided an opportunity to explore Nigeria’s design talent, materials and craftsmanship, while encouraging connections between local designers and international industry players.
Marva Griffin Wilshire Receives Architectural Legacy Honour
One of the major highlights of Design Week Lagos 2026 was the inaugural IDEA Honours, which recognised influential figures in architecture and the creative industries.
Marva Griffin Wilshire received the Architectural Legacy Honour. Her award featured a specially crafted plaque created by renowned Nigerian artist and architect Demas Nwoko, a recipient of the Member of the Federal Republic (MFR) national honour.
Other personalities recognised during the event included architect Lesley Lokko and artist Yinka Shonibare.
The honours celebrated contributions to architecture, design and the wider creative sector, reinforcing the role of cultural exchange in shaping the future of the industry.
Design Week Lagos Promotes African Creative Talent
The 2026 edition of Design Week Lagos featured exhibition tours and panel discussions centred on the theme, Making a New Africa: From Material to Market.
The discussions explored how Africa’s natural resources, cultural heritage and creative expertise could support industrial development and create new opportunities for designers and businesses.
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Marva Griffin Wilshire said her visit to Lagos offered an opportunity to discover emerging African talent and help create pathways for young designers to build international careers.
Design Week Lagos founder Titi Ogufere also highlighted the potential of African materials, heritage and creative talent to contribute to global industrial growth.
The event placed a spotlight on the need to connect creativity with production, business development and access to international markets.
Lagos Strengthens Its Position in Global Design
Salone del Mobile’s participation marked a significant moment for Nigeria’s design community, creating opportunities for international engagement and greater visibility for African creatives.
Design Week Lagos ran through October 25, 2026, with the event bringing together professionals across architecture, furniture, interiors and contemporary design.
Attention is now turning to Milan, where the 65th edition of Salone del Mobile is scheduled for April 2027.
The collaboration signals the potential for stronger ties between African and European design communities, as Nigerian creatives seek wider recognition and access to global markets.
