Ghanaian designer Belle Yemofio has achieved a major international milestone after winning a prestigious design prize in Milan, while also earning a nomination at the Africa Golden Awards. The dual recognition underscores Ghana’s growing influence within the global interior architecture landscape.
Yemofio, Founder and Creative Director of EllenDavis Interior Design, received the Professional Award – Residential Space (Innovation Award Category) at the Italy International Design Award—a platform widely respected for spotlighting groundbreaking work in architecture and design. Her win places her among a new wave of designers redefining how contemporary living spaces are imagined and experienced.
The award was presented for her standout project, The Curve Residence Project, a design that impressed judges with its strong architectural identity and refined execution. Characterized by sweeping curves and a fluid spatial arrangement, the residence offers a seamless transition between rooms while maintaining a cohesive visual language. The project reflects a design philosophy rooted in both elegance and usability, where aesthetic ambition is carefully balanced with the realities of everyday living.
Jurors particularly noted the project’s ability to merge sculptural form with practical function. The use of curved geometries softens spatial boundaries, creating a sense of continuity and movement throughout the home. This approach not only enhances the visual experience but also redefines how occupants interact with domestic space—an innovation that set the project apart in a competitive global field.
Reacting to the recognition, Yemofio described the moment as both personal and symbolic. She emphasized that the award represents a broader shift in the design industry, where African perspectives are increasingly influencing global conversations on space, beauty, and functionality. For her, the achievement is also a testament to the dedication and vision of her team at EllenDavis Interior Design.
Her nomination for African Interior Designer of the Year at the Africa Golden Awards further amplifies her impact. The awards celebrate individuals and organizations contributing to Africa’s progress across sectors including the arts, entrepreneurship, innovation, and social development. Yemofio’s inclusion highlights her growing role as a leading voice within the continent’s creative industries.
Based in Accra, EllenDavis Interior Design has steadily built a reputation for delivering sophisticated interiors that merge contemporary aesthetics with cultural sensitivity and functional clarity. Since its founding six years ago, the studio has developed a diverse portfolio spanning residential and commercial projects, positioning itself as one of the emerging forces in African design.
Yemofio’s journey into interior architecture adds depth to her success story. Transitioning from a background in banking, she has, over time, cultivated a practice defined by precision, creativity, and a commitment to excellence. Her rise reflects a broader narrative of African designers carving out space on the global stage through originality and innovation.
This latest recognition in Milan not only celebrates Yemofio’s individual achievement but also signals a wider momentum. African designers are increasingly moving from the margins to the center of global design discourse—bringing with them fresh perspectives that continue to reshape the future of interior architecture.
