I was first invited to Nkuku Totnes  Totnes in 2022 to explore their newly extended barn and refurbished café, a space that perfectly reflects the brand’s ethos of thoughtful craftsmanship, calm design, and conscious living. Visiting Nkuku Totnes again, I was struck by the seamless blend of sustainability and style, from the hand-thrown ceramics to the seasonal dishes served with quiet elegance.

Since that visit, Nkuku has continued to grow, most recently opening a beautiful new venue in Redbrick, Leeds. Revisiting this inspiring destination feels like the perfect way to celebrate timeless design, sustainable style, and the spaces that make us feel truly at home.

From the Totnes barn to the new Leeds venue, Nkuku’s journey reflects a beautiful balance of evolution and ethos , staying true to its roots while expanding its reach.

Nkuku based just outside Totnes in the glorious South Hams countryside in Devon. Originally a farmyard of barns housing cattle and was derelict for over 20 years before Nkuku discovered them and worked their magic. There is free parking, wifi and well behaved dogs are very welcome. There’s even a little treat waiting for them by the door. I might have to make this my new place to sit and write, it’s so lovely.

The barns are filled with collections styled so beautifully, it’s impossible not to imagine these serene, curated corners in your own home

Inspired Collections From Nkuku Totnes For Every Home

I’ve created three mood boards showcasing my favourite pieces from Nkuku’s latest collection. The designs span a variety of styles and price points, making them easy to adapt to your own home. With their light, tactile and natural materials, each piece adds effortless warmth, texture, and character to any living space, whatever its size or location. I hope these boards spark ideas to bring a touch of Nkuku’s timeless style into your own home!

The Garden Room

Inspired by nature and natural surroundings, the garden room or conservatory is a perfect place for relaxing, reading and entertaining. I love candles and the braided hemp designs to bring the outside in and all the pieces together.

The Ondal Round Braided Hemp Side Table

Adds a sturdy, neutral layer to living rooms or garden rooms. (top left)

The appealing braided pattern is expertly crafted by hand using the warm, golden fibres of hemp. This attractive side table feels solid and sturdy and works well as a neutral layer in a living room, garden room or snug area.. This table would also work well as a footstool or an occasional seat.

Planters

Bring greenery indoors for a refreshing touch.

Planters (centre) are a fabulous way to add green and a refresh to your garden or garden room, complementing other textured, tactile pieces.

Sia Lantern

Elegant lanterns to create a warm and striking ambience.

These lanterns are enhanced with an antique black metal finish, holding tall glass panels for the perfect silhouette for a church candle or tealight. Easily transported from home to the garden, creating a beautiful setting wherever they are. (top right and bottom centre )

Halali Fire Pit Kadai with Surround

A statement piece to anchor your outdoor living space.

Generously proportioned and crafted from solid iron, this traditional fire bowl is surrounded by a practical table edge, perfect for warming plates or drinks. (bottom right)

Alwar Outdoor Wall Light

Adds grace and a soft warm glow to any outdoor setting.

The antique brass patina of the stylish swan neck and lamp head pairs elegantly with the clear glass shade. This iconic design works well in traditional and contemporary homes alike. (bottom left of the mood board)

The Sitting Room

Inspired by shades of white, neutrals, wood, touches of greenery and of course, living by the Devon coast a touch of blue. Cosy, comfortable and light is the feel of our room; perfect for cosying up in front of the fire and a good book in the winter and light and airy in the summer months too.

Muturi Glass Floor Lamp – Antique Brass

Adds warmth and elegance to neutral or bold interiors.

I love the combination of warm antique brass and elegant clear glass. The striking mix of materials makes this a standout piece in any home.

The Deni Collection

Generous, comfortable seating in timeless design.

The Grand combines soft contours, luxurious comfort, and timeless design, in a stylish UK-crafted solid wood framework with pure Brera Linen upholstery and solid wood legs. Available in six muted shades, you can order a free swatch pack to see the fabric choices. (middle centre and bottom left)

Braided Hemp Rug

Adds tactile, understated style to any room.

Hand-braided from hemp in a traditional pattern, the warm gold hues make it perfect for any living space, conservatory, or family room. (bottom right of the above mood board)

Chara Hammered Bottles

Simple yet elegant styling for your home.

These bottles are decorated with a hammered glass finish and etched detail, skilfully created by blowing glass through a brass ring. Perfect styled alone or with fairy lights. (above right)

Kajala Cotton Cushion Cover

Soft, versatile cushions with subtle geometric design.

Crafted in monochrome with black thread running through the fabric in a softly broken line, these covers are calming and adaptable to a variety of interiors. (above left and top centre of the mood board)

The Kitchen

The heart of the home. The busiest space of the house. With two teens, this room needs to be practical, effective and with Nkuku’s styling storage jars and accessories, the new collection ticks many boxes. A place for everything and everything in it’s place! See my pantry makeover for more inspiration.

Kamtha Water Hyacinth Tray

Adds texture and warmth to side tables or kitchen counters.

These round trays are woven from water hyacinth, a plant that grows in abundance in the waterways of Vietnam. The warm, golden tones and attractive braiding work make them a great accessory to add texture and a natural touch to your interior. I keep mine on a side table in the garden room/conservatory. (Above centre)

Recycled Glass Dome Cake Stand

Stylish display for cakes, cheeses, and other treats.

These elegant recycled glass domes slot neatly into a mango wood base, providing a polished yet practical way to store culinary delights.

Charal Storage Jars

Keep ingredients fresh while adding natural elegance to your kitchen.

The simple clear glass body and mango wood top of this Charai storage jar makes it the perfect everyday organisational accessory. Finished with a silicone seal to ensure that its contents remain fresh. Perfect for pulses, grains, herbs, and spices.

The Dura White Marble Wine Cooler

A tactile, luxury accessory for entertaining.

With striking variegated tones and a smooth finish, this marble cooler looks stunning on any kitchen island or table. (above left)

Visiting Nkuku Café: Calm, Thoughtful and Welcoming

The Nkuku Café, Totnes was fully refurbished and extended in 2022 and is a haven of calm, perfectly complementing the curated collections. Opening out onto the courtyard, there’s a serene space to enjoy a coffee, iced tea, or a light meal.

Whether you’re local or visiting Devon, you’ll be greeted with a truly warm welcome.
A heartfelt thank you to Helen and the entire Nkuku team for a wonderful visit, it’s always such a delight to see you and experience your beautiful spaces. I could happily spend the entire day here!

* This post was originally published in 2022 and has been updated in 2025 to include the latest collection and insights.