Last weekend, we welcomed a select group from our community of interior experts, stylists and content creators to Shoreditch for an exclusive first look at our AW26 collection.
As we move through summer, our thoughts begin to drift towards the slower rhythms of autumn: changing light, cosy evenings at home and the comfort of thoughtfully curated spaces. At Nkuku, we are always quietly working behind the scenes, creating collections that celebrate these moments. Our AW26 Preview Event was an opportunity to share a first glimpse of what we have been crafting for the season ahead.
On an unexpectedly warm and beautifully sunny day in London, guests stepped into a carefully curated space where timeless Nkuku favourites sat effortlessly alongside our new designs. Created to feel like a lived-in home rather than a showroom, the space invited guests to wander at their own pace, discovering the collection through texture, scent and story.
New textiles adorned the walls, while hand-blown recycled glass pendant lights gently swayed in the warm breeze. The comforting fragrance of our award-winning Oakmoss & Rose Home Fragrance Collection filled the space as guests explored, taking time to feel and discover the craftsmanship and natural materials behind each piece.
Our team shared the stories behind the collection, celebrating the materials and traditional techniques that bring each piece to life. Natural, reclaimed and recycled materials are shaped by hand into designs with organic forms, tactile finishes and individual character, each bearing the subtle marks of its maker and material.
The collection embraces an understated palette inspired by nature. Warm ochre tones sit alongside muted olives and eucalyptus, warm masala pinks as well as delicate, airy neutrals, bringing a sense of calm and warmth to the home. From the organic beauty of hand-blown glass to tactile handwoven textiles and reclaimed woods rich with history, every piece celebrates the character of natural materials and the individuality of handcrafted design.
Throughout the space, every surface was thoughtfully styled to show how old and new naturally sit together. It perfectly reflected our belief that homes should evolve slowly, filled with pieces collected over time, layered with character and designed to be cherished for years to come.
After exploring the collection, guests gathered for a conversation about the relationship between our homes and our wellbeing. Hosted by award-winning interiors journalist Busola Evans, the panel brought together Nkuku's Lead Product Designer, Catharine Denham, Japandi specialist Cate St Hill and Interior Design Masters winner Lia Gold. Together, they explored how thoughtful design can support everyday wellbeing, sharing personal experiences and professional insights into creating spaces that feel restorative and deeply personal.
While each panellist brought a distinct aesthetic and perspective, they agreed on one simple idea: our homes should make us feel happy. Whatever our style and whatever we choose to surround ourselves with, home should be a place of calm, comfort and belonging. Guests joined the conversation with thoughtful questions and reflections, creating a genuine sense of connection among a community united by a shared love of interiors.
Following the panel, everyone gathered for a relaxed family-style lunch hosted by Ottolenghi, beautifully served on Nkuku serveware. Our Indigo Drop plates provided the perfect canvas for a seasonal feast, followed by delicious cakes and a glass of something sparkling to end the afternoon.
It was a special day and one we will remember fondly. Sharing our new collection with such an inspiring community, hearing their thoughtful feedback and seeing their excitement for what is to come has made us all the more excited to share AW26 with you.
We cannot wait for you to discover the collection when it launches in the coming weeks.