Tactile, Grounded, Refined: Inside the World of Tola Ojuolape
people • DESIGNERS
Tola Ojuolape is a multidisciplinary designer based in London, working across interiors, branding, and furniture for contemporary brands and cultural spaces. Her work balances aesthetic refinement with emotional depth, often shaped by her Nigerian heritage and a nuanced, intuitive design sensibility. In this interview, Tola shares reflections on creating warm interior design that resonates on a personal level, spaces that feel not only beautiful but deeply considered. From emotive palettes to intentional process, her approach reveals a practice grounded in care, culture, and creative precision.
Words: designeers
APRIL 2025
WEBSITE: tolaojuolape.com
INSTAGRAM: @tolaojuolape.studio
DESIGNEERS
What first drew you to becoming a multidisciplinary designer?
Tola Ojuolape
Architecture was my initial draw; however, I also loved art. While I was still in school, I did research with my tutor and discovered that interior architecture could be the perfect blend of both worlds. It offered a creative outlet and a shorter path than traditional architecture. It just felt right.
DESIGNEERS
Growing up in Ireland with Nigerian heritage, how did these diverse cultural backgrounds shape your perspective on design and creativity?
Tola Ojuolape
I grew up seeing two very different yet equally beautiful worlds. Nigerian culture is rich with colour, tradition, and an innate sense of elegance—fashion was a powerful medium of expression and inspiration for me. Nigerians are incredibly stylish and regal. Ireland, on the other hand, is home. There’s a quiet serenity and simplicity in the landscape that’s deeply grounding. That peacefulness and spatial calm shaped the foundation of how I approach design.
DESIGNEERS
If your design style had a soundtrack, what would it be?
Tola Ojuolape
Ooh, great question—probably the Romeo + Juliet soundtrack. It’s vibrant, energetic, melancholic, and memorable. It holds so many nostalgic and creative memories for me.
DESIGNEERS
Describe your aesthetic in three words.
Tola Ojuolape
Grounded, tactile, refined
DESIGNEERS
What’s one design “rule” you always break?
Tola Ojuolape
I don’t really believe in rigid rules, but I’m definitely not afraid to use deep, warm colours in small spaces—even when it’s unexpected. Done right, it creates intimacy and depth.
“Warmth comes from more than just colours or textures; it’s about creating an atmosphere where people feel instantly at ease like they’ve arrived somewhere familiar—even if it’s their first time there.”
Tola Ojuolape
DESIGNEERS
Where do you go (physically or mentally) when you need inspiration?
Tola Ojuolape
I try to travel as much as possible—it’s essential. But closer to home, I love spending time in London parks. They offer stillness, reflection, and the best kind of people-watching. There’s so much inspiration in the way people express themselves through fashion and movement.
DESIGNEERS
What do you want people to feel when they walk into a space you’ve designed?
Tola Ojuolape
I want people to feel warm, comfortable, and seen—not just physically, but emotionally. To me, warm interior design means creating an atmosphere where people feel instantly at ease—like they’ve arrived somewhere familiar, even if it’s their first time there. I think the design should hug you a little and most importantly, I want people to feel seen. That means designing with intention, listening deeply to the person or community the space is for, and creating something that feels deeply personal and considered. It’s about more than aesthetics—it’s about connection. I think the best spaces are ones where you feel like you belong.
DESIGNEERS
If you could collaborate with any brand or designer, past or present, who would it be?
Tola Ojuolape
So many! In fashion, I’d love to work with Victoria Beckham or Roksanda Ilincic—I really admire what they’ve built. Patrizia Urquiola is another major inspiration; I feel like I’d learn so much from her. In terms of brands, I’d love to create a textiles range with a French house like Dedar or Casamance.
DESIGNEERS
What’s one piece of advice you wish clients knew before working with you?
Tola Ojuolape
Trust the interior design process and practice—it takes time to create something meaningful and personal. Be open, and don’t be afraid to embrace the unexpected.
