15 Year Anniversary

We can’t quite believe that it has been 15 years since we established Nkuku. It was 16 years ago that we set off on a round-the-world trip, with the obligatory backpack and flip flops. It was Africa that proved to be the inspiration for the business, the name Nkuku was borrowed from a hut in Zambia, at the same time as the idea for a business venture together was coming to fruition. The business plan and founding values were jotted down on the back of a novel, whilst staying on an Island off Malaysia, and perhaps amazingly our values haven’t changed since then.

The beauty of handmade
An important founding principle of Nkuku was to support and work with artisans throughout the world, with particular focus on handmade techniques and traditional skills. We were inspired by the artisans we met but also aware of the challenges they faced.   

A passion for sustainable materials
We didn’t want to bring in mass produced items and we have always focused on handmade artisan techniques and process, and the unique products that creates; keeping alive all the astounding skills we had witnessed.  

“We have always been passionate about the materials we used to create our products, working with recycled and sustainable materials and promoting more natural alternatives in the homewares market.”

It started with a journey and a journal....
Over the years we have been fortunate to explore more and more corners of the world, learning more and more about indigenous craft methods and meeting many talented artisans on the way. It has been hard work but also created wonderful opportunities to travel with our young family and we are fortunate to count many of our suppliers as good friends.

The company has gone from two of us working in our garage on Dartmoor, to a full and brilliant team based in Dartington, Devon and our product selection has increased from ten to over fifteen hundred products. Most importantly of all, we’ve met and worked with some unforgettable characters both in the UK and overseas. We have made some wonderful friends and managed to indulge our passion for product and design with travel and sustainability.

To celebrate our 15 year anniversary we have designed a limited-edition collection that embraces travel; the catalyst and inspiration behind Nkuku. The capsule collection includes luxurious leather travel wallets, journals, travel pouches and luggage accessories; perfect for accompanying you on your next journey, wherever it may be.