Akra Designs was established in 2006 and specialises in authentic, handmade products for the home and distinctive fashion accessories. Based in the UK, the business operates both retail and wholesale, bringing beautifully crafted pieces to customers who value originality, heritage, and skilled craftsmanship.
For over 15 years, Akra Designs has proudly supported and championed talented artisan designers in Ghana, helping to showcase their creativity to a wider audience. The idea for the business began when the owner, Eva, spent time in Ghana and recognised both the exceptional quality of the handmade work and the opportunity to create meaningful support for local makers.
What started as a passion has grown into a purpose-led brand — connecting customers with unique, handcrafted designs while contributing positively to artisan communities. By promoting authentic craftsmanship and fair collaboration, Akra Designs helps preserve traditional skills and creates real social impact through every collection.
Our Story
Akra Home Interiors began with a simple but powerful idea — that the incredible handmade products created by artisans in Ghana deserved a wider audience and fair opportunity.
Founder Eva Obeng saw first-hand the depth of creativity and craftsmanship across Ghana, but also the difficulty many small producers face due to limited support and market access. She recognised that these authentic homewares and accessories would be loved by customers in the UK and Europe — and that a business could be built that created real social impact.
Akra first launched online, bringing handmade goods to UK customers. As interest grew, customers wanted to see and experience the products in person, which led to Akra establishing a presence at Enfield Market, where the business continues to grow.
Today, Akra Home Interiors is both a retail and wholesale business with a long-term vision to expand further onto the High Street and beyond.
Meet The Team
Eva Obeng
Funder and CEOEva Obeng is a Ghanaian-British entrepreneur and the Founder & CEO of Akra Designs, a UK-based retail and wholesale creative business established in 2006. Driven by her heritage and passion for authentic craftsmanship, Eva founded Akra Designs to showcase and support talented Ghanaian designers, bringing their handmade home and fashion accessories to a wider audience in the UK and beyond. 
Under her leadership, the company has become known not only for its unique, culturally rich products but also for its commitment to social purpose, creating positive economic impact within Ghanaian artisan communities while celebrating African creativity and design. 
Eva continues to champion heritage craftsmanship and ethical business practice through Akra Designs, helping bridge creative talent from Ghana to international markets. 
Matthew Baiden-Reid
DirectorMatthew Baiden-Reid is a British-Ghanaian business leader serving as Director of Akra Designs, a creative retail and wholesale lifestyle brand known for showcasing high-quality contemporary African-inspired homeware, fashion and artisan products. As Director, Matthew provides strategic vision, operations leadership and creative direction that support the company’s mission to celebrate craftsmanship, cultural heritage and ethical design practice.
In his role, Matthew works closely with founder Eva Obeng to grow the company’s presence in the UK and international markets, build strong supplier and retailer partnerships, and maintain Akra Designs’ commitment to supporting talented artisans in Ghana and beyond. Under his guidance, the company continues to blend cultural authenticity with modern design sensibilities and commercial opportunity.
Matthew’s leadership reflects a focus on creative innovation, sustainable business development and community empowerment through thoughtful design and global engagement.
Samantha Biglwoe
Company SecretarySamantha Baiden-Reid is a British company secretary and corporate officer serving Akra Home Interiors Limited, the company behind Akra Designs. She has held the role of Company Secretary since 17 August 2006, providing essential governance, compliance and administrative leadership to support the company’s operations and strategic growth. 
In her role, Samantha ensures that corporate reporting, statutory filings and company procedures align with legal requirements in the United Kingdom. Her longstanding position reflects a commitment to strong organisational management and continuity of corporate stewardship, contributing to the success and stability of the business.