Modern interior design has evolved to embrace a harmonious blend of aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability. Today, homeowners and designers increasingly opt for decor that enhances living spaces and aligns with eco-friendly principles. This shift toward conscious design is redefining the concept of modern living, where sustainability meets style, creating spaces that reflect both personal identity and global responsibility. One of the leading voices in this movement is Jumoke Dada, the visionary founder of Taeillo, an African home decor brand that embodies this ethos. With her innovative approach, Jumoke is redefining modern African design.
Jumoke Dada: redefining modern African home decor at Taeillo
Jumoke Dada is an accomplished entrepreneur and the driving force behind Taeillo, a brand reshaping African home decor with a unique fusion of modern style and sustainable practices. Born and raised in Nigeria, Jumoke graduated with first-class honours in Architecture from the University of Lagos. Her passion for design and commitment to sustainability led her to create Taeillo, a brand that beautifully merges contemporary aesthetics, traditional African elements and eco-friendly practices.
Jumoke’s journey began in 2013 during an internship at a construction design firm while she was still an undergraduate. This experience exposed her to significant projects, such as one for the Central Bank of Nigeria, which informed her vision for sustainable architecture and design. She further pursued a Master’s Degree in Environmental Design.
Subsequently, she obtained a Master’s Degree in Environmental Design and participated in various design competitions and workshops, one of which was organised by the African Contemporary Institute of Design. In September 2015, Jumoke exhibited as a finalist at the Innovation Award.
As a member of the Young African Leadership Institute (YALI), Jumoke earned a certificate in entrepreneurship, reinforcing her dedication to innovative, sustainable design. In an interview with Bella Africana, she explained that the central theme of her idea draws heavily from culture, identity, morals in society, and issues relating to feminism.
Jumoke believes that traditional materials and methods can be revitalised and adapted to suit modern lifestyles, a philosophy she describes as “Modern Africa.” Through this concept, she envisions a world where Africans stay connected to their heritage while thriving in contemporary settings. This vision inspired the creation of Taeillo, a brand that bridges the gap between the past and the present, allowing Africans to celebrate their roots while embracing modernity.
Taeillo: blending tradition with technology.
Not one to follow a conventional path, Jumoke quickly transitioned from working for others to founding her own company, which has grown into one of the leading furniture brands in Nigeria and Kenya. At Taeillo, Jumoke combines traditional African craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology to create a distinctive brand identity.
One of Taeillo’s standout innovations is its use of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies to create a virtual showroom- a first for a Nigerian furniture company. This virtual showroom allows customers to experience Taeillo’s products in an immersive, interactive environment from the comfort of their homes. It enhances the shopping experience while reducing the costs and logistical challenges associated with physical showrooms.
This innovative approach has earned Taeillo recognition and accolades, with Jumoke featured on global platforms like BBC World News, CNN Inside Africa, and the NASDAQ Tower at the New York Times. Jumoke has been celebrated as one of Lagos’s most powerful women and recognised by Tony Elumelu as one of Africa’s top entrepreneurs. She has also received numerous awards, including the Leading Ladies Africa 100 Most Inspiring Women in Nigeria 2021 and the HER Network Woman of the Year (Entrepreneurship) 2021.
Jumoke Dada’s work at Taeillo elevates African home decor and sets a new standard for sustainable and culturally relevant design worldwide. As she continues to break new ground, Jumoke remains an inspiring figure, redefining what it means to create modern, meaningful, and stylish living spaces.
