LIONESS WEEKENDER COVER STORY
Miminat Designs, a groundbreaking interior architecture and design business reimagining form and function
Mimi Shodeinde is a British Nigerian artist, designer and entrepreneur, born and raised in London, Mimi’s passion for art was developed at a young age. Winning awards for her artwork she went on to complete her degree in Interior Architecture at Edinburgh. She has worked and collaborated on a wide range of projects both nationally and internationally, from interior architectural projects, furniture design, lighting and product design spanning The UK, Europe, The Middle East and West Africa. Mimi’s drafting and painting skills together with her artist’s eye allow her to break down the relationship between form and function where art and design intersect. She draws on her diverse influences and background to manipulate the use of space through both form and placement defying categorization. Her style is fluid, sophisticated and functional but seeks to imbue each project with a personality of its own.
Lionesses of Africa met with Mimi earlier this year in London to chat about her inspiration, her entrepreneurial journey to date, and her aspirations for the future of the business.
What does your company do?
Miminat focuses on Interior Architecture & Design, Furniture, Lighting and Product Design. The business was established in 2015.
What inspired you to start your company?
I’m originally from a Fine Art background, I’ve always loved painting and sketching from a young age and studied fine before going on to complete my degree in Interior Architecture. I was always interested in how interiors influenced the way people behave, also how people interact with 'things' be it a piece of furniture or an object. I wanted to create pieces that were intriguing and different from what people usually see.
Tell us a little about your team
We are a very small studio of 4, a lot of my team are based internationally and work remotely. My manufacturers/craftsmen are also based all over really, from Poland to Portugal, Morocco, Ukraine, France and the UK. My team is the most important part of what I do, I can't do what I do without them, its great working and having like-minded people on board, who understand your vision and want to grow with you.
Share a little about your entrepreneurial journey. And, do you come from an entrepreneurial background?
I learnt a lot from both my parents, My mother runs several businesses and my father trained as an architect and went on to other pursuits. Both my parents are extremely hardworking. From a young age, they taught me the value of hard work and the importance of having resilience. They both inspire me every day, I wouldn't be who I am without them. The values I learnt from my upbringing will forever be with me.
What are your future plans and aspirations for your company?
I enjoy every aspect of design, whether I'm designing a private home, a piece of furniture, or an object, every project is unique and offers a new experience, so it's always an exciting journey. You never know what opportunities will come along the way, and I'm open to trying everything!
What gives you the most satisfaction being an entrepreneur?
Seeing my ideas come to life. I feel peace when I see something that has worked perfectly, the way I imagined it in my mind. I still get surprised every time I walk into the studio. Taking something from sketch to reality isn't always easy and there are many hurdles, tweaks & corrections needed to get to that final piece. Its hard work, but it's so worth it!
What's the biggest piece of advice you can give to other women looking to start-up?
Consistency is key, love every moment of the journey, and don't forget to give yourself a pat on the back!
To find out more about the work of Mimi Shodeinde and Miminat, send an email to mimi@miminat.co.uk or follow the business on social media platforms and website:
