London-based design studio, Forestalgia, has launched Modular 001, an integrated table and chair design that houses an internal audio system
Photography by Forestalgia showcasing its first furniture launch, the M.001 Seating system designed by Emmanuel Lawal
Words by Roddy Clarke
Founded by Creative Director and DJ Emmanuel Lawal, East London design studio, Forestalgia, launched its first furniture design earlier this year, revealing the core values behind its practice and the desire to promote connection in a world that needs it more than ever. Speaking of the wider mission behind launching the studio, Lawal says, ‘I felt this burning desire to encourage people to find ways to connect offline, using product as a vehicle to form authentic, tangible connections.’
Photography by Forestalgia showcasing the M.001 furniture system and how it is centred on bringing people together to spark connection
Modular 001, the studio’s inaugural product launch, was officially unveiled in March this year, on the terrace of Gordon Ramsay’s restaurant Lucky Cat on Bishopsgate before going on display at the London Design Biennale in June. ‘It was a perfect way to launch the concept,’ says Lawal. ‘The environment felt indoor yet outdoor and it worked so well as a piece to gather around as well as to lounge on.’ The seating concept, which brings together Lawal’s passion for design and music, is a modular seating system in which the organically shaped stools integrate perfectly into the table, allowing it to be used in a variety of ways. With the shape of the table referencing the studio’s visual identity, it is conceived with the notion of creating a space in which people can connect, converse and create. With a portable speaker housed within it, and mood-light panels enclosing its base, Modular 001 offers a multi-sensory experience that creates the mood within the environment in which it is placed.
Photography by Forestalgia showcasing the creative force behind the studio, Emmanuel Lawal
Hand-built in London from the studio’s Hackney Wick workshops, the system utilises materials sourced from local British suppliers, with its upholstery being a sumptuous vegan suede giving it extra tactility and comfort. Centred around the glass topped table, Lawal’s vision is to create a hardshell version for public spaces. ‘The design highlights the importance of multi-functional, comfortable and inviting environments within social spaces,’ he continues. ‘With Forestalgia, you have a seat at the table, we all have to start somewhere.’
With this initial launch symbolising the studio’s passion for community, Lawal says every product offering or curated event that he hopes to create will always be rooted in pulling people closer together. ‘Whether that’s through furniture, jewellery, accessories or special partnerships, our plan for the future, as of now, is to just keep dreaming.’
Photography by Forestalgia showcasing how the furniture system is designed to enhance convivial and welcoming social experiences
Prior to launching his own studio, the British Nigerian designer has led several creative projects, working with brands such as Bentley Motors and serving on the committee of Frieze 91. Being marked as one of the Design Council’s 25 for 2025 Trailblazers, Lawal is also one half of AUDIOCOMINGSOON, a creative music platform with a podcast titled ‘The ACS Show’ leading the platform to partner with festivals such as Glastonbury and publications including British GQ.
While growing up in Greenwich, Lawal’s vision for Modular 001 pays homage to his Nigerian heritage with it referencing African, mid-century modern furniture through a contemporary design lens. When speaking of his desire to promote connection, he says it is both an important and personal mission. ‘I grew up with my passions and interests being difficult to access because of where I lived and how I looked,’ he states. ‘With Forestalgia, it’s important for me now to create for all, with a team that reflects real diversity.’ Using design to help formulate this narrative, he goes on to say how he believes that people now are starving for connection more than ever. ‘Design can only survive with a community in mind and vice versa. If people are considered and at the forefront of design, the outcome will only serve to strengthen communities.’
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