Collaboration between Armando Cabral and USM unites Swiss functional design with West African aesthetic charm
In the heart of New York City, during New York Fashion Week A/W 2025, the Swiss furniture pioneer USM and designer Armando Cabral unveiled the 'Nkyinkyim' installation. This extraordinary exhibition showcases a fusion of tradition and modern functionality, drawing from Cabral's new lifestyle line, Armando Cabra A Casa, and a series of modular furniture designed exclusively for USM.
Born in Guinea-Bissau and raised in Portugal, Armando Cabral has made a significant impact in the fashion world. Prior to his foray into design, he first made his mark as an international model. In 2008, he founded his luxury footwear brand, Armando Cabral. Now, he has expanded his creative endeavours to include home design.
The 'Nkyinkyim' installation is a testament to Cabral's ability to synthesise West African and European design languages, transforming them into innovative furniture pieces and lifestyle objects. The primary colour palette for the 'A Casa' items is black, allowing structural forms such as bold orange stitching to take centre stage.
The collection includes a bookshelf, an asymmetrical platform bed, a lounge chair set, a side table, and a valet wardrobe stand in a warm palette of dark green, orange, and black. Armando Cabral describes the intentional choices of materials, such as Australian merino wool textiles, bedding, and leather slippers, as complementary elements in the exhibition.
The Adinkra symbol 'Nkyinkyim', which is central to the installation, is a centuries-old West African motif signifying movement, adaptability, and progress. Adinkra symbols carry deep cultural and philosophical meanings and represent concepts, proverbs, and wisdom passed through generations.
Armando Cabral's collaboration with USM marks an evolution of his practice. Previous collaborations include vinyl storage with Symbol and furniture designs with loungewear brand Comme Si. Cabral's brand, Armando Cabral A Casa, celebrates the art of living by blending culture, creativity, and community.
The 'Nkyinkyim' installation collection is available exclusively at the USM Soho showroom and online. This extraordinary fusion of design and culture is a must-see for anyone seeking inspiration and innovation in home design.
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