Our Story

DESIGNER

Meet Dayo Onaderu, a Nigerian architect with a unique upbringing that shaped his creative vision. Born in Germany but raised in the vibrant city of Lagos, Dayo’s fascination with art and crafting began at a young age. Separated from his parents as a child, he found solace with his grandmother on Lagos Island, immersed in the city’s blend of modernity and tradition.

Living in (EKO) Lagos Nigeria’ rich cultural and traditional tapestry, Dayo soaked in experiences of monarchies, kingship and festivals like Eyo, osun and Eegun (masquerade) as well as stories of village life from his grandmother. These early experiences ignited his deep passion for African history, textiles, and people, influencing his architectural journey as well as a beacon for seeing the world.

During his studies at Caleb University’s School of Architecture, Dayo embraced his heritage, infusing his designs with narratives drawn from Africa’s diverse communities. His meticulous approach, rooted in extensive research and cultural understanding, earned him acclaim and distinction in his master’s program.

Now, as a young architect born in 1995 to a family who relocated to Nigeria, Dayo’s work focuses on storytelling through the lens of African culture. His brand, ULO AFRICA, epitomizes his mission to revive African artifacts and narratives in furniture and product design, bringing Afroluxury and Afrofuturism to the global stage.

Dayo’s designs aren’t just about aesthetics; they’re a celebration of Africa’s rich heritage and a testament to the resilience of black culture. Through his work, he seeks to heal, inspire, and share the untold stories of the continent with the world.

FINEST CRAFTSMANSHIP

Once upon a time, in the heart of Africa, there arose a visionary concept—ULO AFRICA. It was more than just a luxury furniture line; it was a reawakening, a re-emergence of Africa’s rich heritage and culture, woven intricately into each masterpiece. Drawing inspiration from the diverse tapestry of Africa—its tribes, ethnic groups, geography, artifacts, and history—ULO AFRICA embarked on a mission to infuse the essence of the continent into homes worldwide.

In the realm of Afroluxury, where every curve and line spoke of elegance and sophistication, ULO AFRICA stood tall as a beacon of African identity. Each piece bore the mark of craftsmanship, a testament to the ancestral connection that flowed through the hands of artisans. From the northern deserts to the southern plains, from the eastern savannas to the western jungles, every corner of Africa found its voice in the intricate designs and rich symbolism of ULO AFRICA.

With a blend of Afrofuturism and ancient wisdom, ULO AFRICA transcended mere furniture; it became a gateway to the past and a vision of the future. The pieces, adorned with tribal scarifications, carvings, and motifs, told stories of kings and queens, warriors and sages, echoing the glory of African empires and kingdoms. Each item, finished in gold, silver, or brass, shimmered with the pride of a continent reclaiming its lost artifacts and heritage.

As ULO AFRICA ventured into global markets, it carried with it the hopes and dreams of a continent longing to be seen and celebrated. It was more than commerce; it was a cultural renaissance, a celebration of Africa’s 54 nations united in creativity and ingenuity. From the bustling streets of Lagos to the chic boulevards of Paris, ULO AFRICA’s creations found homes where they were cherished not just as furniture but as pieces of art and history.

And so, with each stroke of the chisel and each brush of gold leaf, ULO AFRICA continued to weave the threads of Africa’s story into the fabric of the world. For in the understanding that Afrofuturism is not a distant dream but a tangible reality, ULO AFRICA embodied the spirit of a continent reclaiming its place on the global stage—one exquisite piece at a time.