Cult At Grand Designs Live With Ayisha Onuorah

Last year's Grand Designs Live saw us team up with the ridiculously talented Ayisha Onuorah. 

With an aligned ethos in values, design, and creativity, it felt like a no-brainer to collaborate with Ayisha, who has paved the way for bold shapes and unapologetic use of colour. And with Cult being the new Grand Designs Live House Partner, it's a marriage made in heaven.

Creating the perfect entry space at Grand Designs Live 2025 from concept to reality takes more than a lick of paint. Discover how Ayisha transformed her dream hallway into a reality, using Cult furniture, of course.

"Materiality and Colour are ALWAYS central to how I design."

I build spaces through texture and tone, using natural, well-made materials that feel connected. For this project, the palette was bold and striking, balanced by earthy, neutral undertones, something I always aim for so that a space feels rich but not overwhelming.

Dark and walnut woods grounded the room, their deep grain adding warmth and weight. The Bond Dining Table and Side Table in Riviera marble introduced contrast, with soft blue tones running through the surface that tied perfectly into the wider palette. The Ivy Swivel Chair in deep red provided a bold contrast through colour and shape, whilst also being super functional.

Lighting played an important role in shaping the atmosphere. The Danika Table Lamp, with its walnut base, brass detailing, and linen shade, added a natural texture that complemented the rest of the material palette. My mantra when it comes to lighting is to light every surface, and the introduction of a table lamp really brought that soft, warm glow to the space.

In the dining area, the Willow Dining Chairs - upholstered in a sustainable boucle - were a real draw. Sustainability is always something I consider when specifying anything in design.

"For me, design is about how something feels – I aim to elicit emotion from people who are experiencing it."

That’s usually my key objective, especially in something like an exhibition where the end users may only experience the space once!

I have always loved Cult Furniture. I’ve used their pieces in past projects, and their aesthetic really aligns with how I approach design. There is a strong sense of style and curation in what they do. It feels considered, expressive, and timeless. Having come from a fashion background myself, that connection feels natural. Their furniture has a confident energy and a focus on craft that I really admire.

"Seeing the space come alive was incredibly rewarding."

Once I knew I would be designing the entry hall, I knew I had to partner with Cult. Their collection fit perfectly with the concept and made the process feel effortless. Seeing the space come alive was incredibly rewarding. It perfectly captured the atmosphere I wanted to create - and made the best first impression!