FashionEVO X Nwaogo Theresa Aroh on Luxury Woodwork and WOODstyles Limited’s Experience Center

FashionEVO: Nwaogo, as the Experience Center Manager at WOODstyles Limited, could you share with us your journey and how you came to specialize in luxury bespoke joinery and cabinetry?

Theresa: I have always had a thing for perfection and creativity even though my professional journey has been a dynamic trajectory that traversed the realms of banking, hospitality, and customer care. This has ultimately led me to venture into the Bespoke Joinery and cabinetry industry as the Woodstyles Experience Center Manager.

Commencing my career in banking provided me with a robust foundation in strategic thinking, meticulous planning, and attention to detail—qualities that would later prove invaluable in the realm of luxury craftsmanship. My time in banking exposed me to the corporate world’s intricacies, where precision and efficiency were paramount.

However, the turning point in my career occurred when I transitioned to the hospitality industry outside Nigeria. The international exposure and experience I gained by interacting with people and spaces broadened my horizons and made me appreciate how far and wide bespoke luxury spaces can be a reality. The world of hospitality demands an acute understanding of aesthetics, ‘look and feel guest experience, and the seamless integration of design elements to create spaces that are not just functional but awe-inspiring. This period enriched my perspective on how meticulous design can elevate the overall experience of individuals within a space, and it ignited a passion for the intersection of functionality and aesthetics.

Upon returning to Nigeria, the opportunity to join WOODstyles Limited presented itself, and it felt like a serendipitous alignment of my skills and newfound passion. Joining the company as the Experience Center Manager allowed me to channel my background in banking and my expertise from the hospitality sector into the realm of luxury bespoke joinery and cabinetry.

 So I will say that my journey from banking to the international hospitality industry has uniquely positioned me to contribute a nuanced and multifaceted perspective to the management of the Experience Center at WOODstyles Limited. It’s a journey that reflects a convergence of strategic acumen, an eye for aesthetics honed in luxurious fit-outs, and a passion for creating immersive environments that define the world of luxury bespoke joinery and cabinetry.

 

FashionEVO: Managing the experience center involves showcasing the craftsmanship of WOODstyles. What inspired you to take on this role, and what aspects of the job do you find most fulfilling?

Theresa: Managing the experience center for WOODstyles is a natural progression for me. What I find most fulfilling in this role is the ability to curate an unparalleled journey for our clientele. The experience center serves as a living canvas, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship, cultural influences, and dedication that goes into every creation. Witnessing the awe and appreciation on the faces of visitors as they interact with our pieces is immensely gratifying. It’s about more than just displaying furniture; it’s about creating an atmosphere that fosters a profound connection between the observer and the artisanal journey.

Moreover, the role allows me to be a storyteller which I will say I love doing and am very good at it too. Each piece at WOODstyles has a narrative, and the experience center is the stage where these stories unfold.

 

Managing the experience center is dynamic and keeps me engaged and invigorated. It’s not just about static displays; it’s about evolving the space to reflect the ever-evolving ethos we uphold at WOODstyles. Introducing new collections, experimenting with innovative display concepts, and staying attuned to design trends ensure that the experience center remains a vibrant, living entity. This constant evolution aligns seamlessly with the spirit of creativity and innovation that defines us as a brand.

In essence, managing the experience center is not just a role; it’s a commitment to curate an immersive journey where craftsmanship becomes an experience. The ability to shape perceptions, evoke emotions, and forge a connection between the observer and the artisanal process is what makes this role profoundly inspiring and fulfilling. It’s about creating not just a showroom but a sanctuary where every piece invites visitors to step into the world of WOODstyles, igniting a passion for craftsmanship that transcends the boundaries of ordinary furniture.

 

 

FashionEVO: With your passion for design and aesthetics, how do you ensure that the Experience Center at WOODstyles provides a captivating and immersive environment for clients and visitors?

Theresa: Drawing on my extensive experience in the hospitality industry, I bring a unique perspective to curating the Experience Center at WOODstyles, ensuring it goes beyond being a showroom and evolves into a captivating and immersive space that resonates with clients and visitors alike.

Firstly, I leverage my background in hospitality to create an ambiance that evokes a sense of welcome and comfort. The Experience Center is designed not just as a display area but as a destination where clients feel invited to linger and explore. Thoughtful consideration is given to lighting, colors, and spatial arrangements to create a warm and inviting atmosphere, akin to the hospitality industry’s focus on guest experience.

 

Additionally, my experience in the hospitality industry emphasizes the significance of storytelling. Each piece in the Experience Center becomes a narrative, and visitors are taken on a journey through the cultural influences, craftsmanship techniques, and inspirations behind each creation. This storytelling approach adds depth to the environment, creating a connection between the client and the brand that extends beyond the transactional aspect.

In essence, my passion for design, coupled with my experience in hospitality, forms the foundation for curating an Experience Center at WOODstyles that transcends the conventional showroom. It’s about creating an immersive destination where clients are not just observers but active participants in a journey of aesthetics, craftsmanship, and cultural celebration—a space where the principles of hospitality seamlessly blend with the world of luxury design.

FashionEVO: Beyond your role at WOODstyles, what personal interests or hobbies contribute to your creativity and perspective in managing a space dedicated to luxury design and craftsmanship?

Theresa: I am passionate about craftsmanship and design, and my role at WOODstyles is not just a profession, but a manifestation of that passion. My diverse array of personal interests and hobbies enriches my creativity and perspective in managing a space dedicated to luxury design and craftsmanship.

My love for travel is a wellspring of inspiration, exposing me to a myriad of design styles, architectural marvels, and traditional craftsmanship techniques. I find solace and inspiration in the great outdoors, and my commitment to sustainability extends beyond the workshop. This connection with nature fuels a personal sense of responsibility toward the environment and permeates into the ethos of WOODstyles.

The synthesis of global experiences, a commitment to sustainability, a love for nature, and an art appreciation collectively form the lens through which I approach luxury design and craftsmanship. These elements distinguish WOODstyles in a competitive market and define it as a space where passion, creativity, and purpose converge to create not just furniture, but works of art with a profound story to tell.

 

 

 

FashionEVO: WOODstyles Limited is known for its commitment to delivering exceptional woodwork that meets international standards. Can you highlight some key elements that set WOODstyles apart from other joinery and cabinetry manufacturers?

Theresa: At WOODstyles, our unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional woodwork is anchored in our adherence to the highest quality standards. We meticulously inspect and ensure that each piece of joinery and cabinetry not only meets but often exceeds international benchmarks. This dedication guarantees that our clients receive products of unparalleled craftsmanship.

What distinguishes us is our innovative approach to design. Our team of skilled designers not only stays abreast of current trends but also pushes boundaries to craft unique and timeless pieces. This commitment to innovative design ensures that WOODstyles products are not merely functional but also stand as works of art, setting us apart in a crowded market.

Talk about customization and flexibility we recognize the diverse needs of our clients, we excel in providing customization and flexibility in our offerings. Whether tailoring designs to specific preferences, accommodating unique spaces, or working with different wood types, WOODstyles ensures that each project is a bespoke representation of the client’s vision.

 

FashionEVO: The company focuses on luxury projects across various sectors. Could you share some notable projects that WOODstyles has undertaken, and what challenges and successes have been associated with them?

Theresa: Due to confidentiality agreements we have with most of our clients, we are unable to mention their names as references for residential projects. However, one iconic project we handled was the No. 4 Bourdillon Luxury Tower in Ikoyi with over 40 bespoke luxury apartments almost fully fitted out by WOODstyles limited. We also have office spaces done by us like the Meristem Financial services company in Ikoyi across 5 floors fully fitted out by us. We have also had award-winning spaces like the Pernod Ricard Office in Victoria Island, and The Good Life Restaurant amongst several recently executed spaces. 

 

 

FashionEVO: Sustainability is a growing concern in the design and manufacturing industry. How do WOODstyles address environmental considerations and implement sustainable practices in its operations?

Theresa: WOODstyles is fully dedicated to integrating sustainability into both our design and manufacturing processes. Recognizing the escalating concerns about environmental impact within our industry, we have implemented a comprehensive range of initiatives to effectively address these considerations.

First and foremost, we place a strong emphasis on prioritizing responsibly sourced materials, ensuring that our wood is sourced from sustainable forestry practices. This commitment serves the dual purpose of preserving natural ecosystems and ensuring the longevity of our valuable resources.

Moreover, we are conscientious about our production processes, constantly striving to minimize waste and energy consumption. Our manufacturing operations strictly adhere to eco-friendly practices, encompassing the efficient use of raw materials and the integration of recycling measures wherever feasible.

Beyond this, our dedication extends to the durability and longevity of our products. Through the creation of high-quality, long-lasting furniture, our goal is to decrease the frequency of replacements, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable consumer cycle.

 

FashionEVO: WOODstyles is based in Lagos, Nigeria. How do the local culture and heritage influence the design aesthetic and approach to craftsmanship at the company?

Theresa: The commitment of the company is to create unique and authentic pieces that are deeply rooted in the rich traditions and diverse history of the region. The local culture has imparted a profound sense of storytelling to WOODstyles, which is one of the key elements. Lagos, with its multifaceted heritage and narratives, serves as a wellspring of inspiration for the artisans at WOODstyles. Each piece crafted by the company is a narrative in itself, reflecting the cultural mosaic that is Lagos.

Furthermore, the design philosophy at WOODstyles is profoundly influenced by the ethos of communal living ingrained in the local culture. The company places a premium on creating furniture that fosters a sense of community and shared experiences.

Craftsmanship at WOODstyles is a celebration of sustainability, echoing the resourcefulness embedded in Nigerian heritage. The company’s commitment to sustainable practices aligns seamlessly with the traditional Nigerian approach of harmonizing with nature rather than exploiting it. The design aesthetic and craftsmanship approach is a testament to the company’s deep-rooted respect for the local heritage, translating into pieces that resonate not just aesthetically but culturally with the community they call home. As WOODstyles continues to evolve, it stands as a living testament to the enduring connection between craftsmanship, culture, and community in the heart of Lagos, Nigeria.

 

 

FashionEVO: WOODstyles is recognized as a trusted name in the industry. How does the company maintain and build upon this trust, especially when working on high-profile projects that demand precision and excellence?

Theresa: At the core of WOODstyles’ approach is an unwavering commitment to delivering top-notch quality in every project. We adhere to the highest industry standards and employ rigorous quality control measures at every stage of production. This commitment ensures that our clients consistently receive products that meet and exceed their expectations all these while building and maintaining trust hinge on transparent communication. WOODstyles prioritizes open and honest communication with clients throughout the project lifecycle. Regular updates, clear timelines, and collaborative decision-making foster a sense of transparency, establishing a strong foundation of trust. Trust is reinforced through our commitment to timely delivery and effective project management. We place a strong emphasis on meeting deadlines without compromising on quality. This reliability ensures that clients can trust us with even the most time-sensitive and demanding projects.

Our commitment to client satisfaction extends beyond project completion. WOODstyles provides comprehensive post-project support and maintenance services, ensuring that our clients continue to enjoy the longevity and quality of our work, further solidifying trust in our brand.

 

 

FashionEVO: As a luxury bespoke joinery and cabinetry manufacturer, what future trends do you anticipate in the industry, and how is WOODstyles positioning itself to stay ahead in this dynamic market?

Theresa: Anticipated Trend: Increased reliance on digital tools for client engagement, visualization, and collaborative design processes.  We are enhancing our digital capabilities to provide clients with immersive visualizations and collaborative platforms, allowing them to actively participate in the design process and visualize the result before production begins.

Anticipated Trend: A shift towards global collaboration and sourcing of materials to create diverse and unique luxury pieces. We are strategically establishing collaborations and expanding our sourcing network to access a diverse range of high-quality materials. This approach enables us to offer clients a broader selection and ensures that our designs remain globally influenced and distinctive.

Anticipated Trend: Growing interest in multi-functional and versatile furniture designs to maximize space efficiency. We are actively incorporating multi-functional elements into our designs, ensuring that our luxury joinery and cabinetry not only exude sophistication but also cater to the practical needs of modern living spaces.

We are not merely anticipating future trends in the luxury bespoke joinery and cabinetry industry but actively shaping and embracing them. Our commitment to sustainability, integration of smart technologies, emphasis on artisanal craftsmanship, focus on multi-functional designs, adoption of digital engagement tools, and global collaboration efforts position us at the forefront of the industry’s evolution. By staying ahead of trends, WOODstyles continues to redefine luxury interiors and deliver unparalleled sophistication to our discerning clientele.  

 

Visit WOODstyles for more information.