KOOBA SAGAMU: Embracing Heritage through Sustainability
In honor of my Grandfather and his friends
K - Kamiyo, Mohammed
O - Onimole, Bolaji
O - Orelesi, Daniel
B - Badmus, Musiliu
A - Ajetumobi, Solomon
The KOOBA project celebrates the journey of vintage metal chairs imported into Nigeria in the 70s, purchased by my Grandfather and his friends for their chair rental business in Sagamu. In this interesting fusion of craftsmanship, heritage, and sustainability, I reimagine the past by upcycling these iconic metal chairs from the 1980s that have journeyed through time, bearing the memories of countless gatherings, celebrations, and shared moments
Originally imported from Australia, the chairs represented an era of innovation and change, replacing traditional wooden chairs and introducing a novel concept in event seating with their distinct stackable design across gatherings, parties, and weddings. In paying homage to this familial heritage and embracing sustainability, I embark on a heartfelt endeavor to revive these iconic ‘stack-a-bye’ chairs, which have become emblematic of a bygone era and a core memory from my childhood visits to Sagamu.
Collaborating closely with skilled local metal artisans and painters, we meticulously breathe new life into the chairs, incorporating comfort and style without compromising the original structure and form. Each chair was carefully disassembled, cleaned, and refurbished to maintain its structural integrity.
Additional elements like leather and faux fur enhance the chairs’ aesthetic appeal and improve their comfort and usability, aligning with the contemporary needs of today’s users. The result is a collection that seamlessly marries the old and the new while highlighting the importance of sustainable design.
The chairs are a testament to craftsmanship and sustainability, emphasizing the appeal of repurposing and breathing new life into ‘outdated’ objects. Through the lens of sustainability, I hope to inspire a collective shift towards conscious consumption and highlight the value of sustainable practices in the modern world.
The project also includes stunning images of my grandparents and the chairs, photographed by the talented Koye O. in their Sagamu home.
Seyi Omotoso
Founder & Creative Director