Meet Jane Badu, interior designer, travel lover and founder of We Are Nomads, and THE THREAD JOURNAL’s latest Insider – an individual who embodies a connection to their surroundings at home and in their work.
Jane was inspired by her passions for design and travel to create an online store that showcases carefully sourced homeware alongside collections that she designs, bringing together eclectic and exciting pieces with soul for the modern home.
Jane believes that the story of world craft is so rich that it deserves to be shared and celebrated and is passionate that everybody owns a unique piece that is full of life that tells a story.
I took the opportunity to talk to Jane about her relationship to space on a personal level and how it provides a grounding foundation to her work…
Describe who you are and what you do.
Hello, I’m Jane Badu, I’m a Midlander from Stoke-on-Trent now living in London and working as an interior designer. Late last year I launched my online homeware store called We Are Nomads, where I sell items I have sourced from places I have travelled to – it is my passion project and I’m so excited for the future of the shop.
What led you on your path?
I have always been creative since my first art lesson at school. I used to work in administration but I was a frustrated designer so I moved to London to finally study interior design.
I was inspired to set up the shop on a trip to Marrakech, I fell in love with the colours, textures and crafts happening in the city. I feel like with We Are Nomads I have found the thing I have always wanted to do, to combine travel and interiors.
Where is home for you?
Home is a one bed flat in North West London, it has a little balcony. As soon as the sun shines I’m straight out there, normally working on my laptop.
How would you describe your home?
I would describe it as a mix of bits I’ve collected throughout the years. I love eclectic interiors. I love mid-century furniture and have some of that. Lots of cushions and rugs – it’s important that my home feels like a cosy home. I love to travel and my shop is a great way for me to gather up beautiful items I have found and show them to my customers.
What does homecoming mean to you?
Arriving home after being out in London is a joy, when that key goes in the door I breathe out and relax. It’s my sanctuary, when I need to unwind and switch off I’ll spend a day at home. I’m very lucky to have a space that is all mine.
What is the first thing you do when you return home?
Take off my shoes, watch and drop my bag. I grab a drink of water then I’ll got to my laptop and start to work on my online shop. Having two sides to my business means I’m always working but I love it.
How do you unwind in your home?
I will just sit and be quiet, maybe with a glass of wine too as a treat.
Do you have a sacred space or favourite place in your studio?
If I have time on a Sunday I will indulge in a bath, light some candles and watch a film on Netflix. That is absolute luxury for me, I have to have a bath in my home.
What makes a space sacred?
Somewhere that allows me to be with my own thoughts. A space of calm to just sit and be still. London is so crazy and busy as I’ve got older I just crave a bit of calm.
How does the ethos of sacred space play a part in your work?
I am a naturally chilled out person and don’t enjoy working under pressure. I will plan out my work so I can enjoy the projects I work on. I have worked for many years in jobs I didn’t enjoy so it’s important for me to create a work environment that is enjoyable.
If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be?
I would love to live in Palm Springs. I’m obsessed with the Modernist homes and love the desert. The sunsets in that part of the world are stunning.
Find out more about We Are Nomad’s offerings,
Visit the website to view the beautiful collections of textiles, tableware, decor and lifestyle items
Read the blog for latest news from Jane and We Are Nomads
Follow We Are Nomads on Instagram for lots of interiors and travel inspiration, the ultimate source of wanderlust
