In case I failed to mention it in earlier posts, the name of our Lesotho restaurant is No.7. The number 7 is traditionally regarded as the most iconic shirt number in soccer and ties in with Kick4Life’s use of soccer in teaching children in Lesotho about HIV/AIDS.
In the initial design brief, Kick4life suggested we display locally made artwork as well as cultural items that are unique to Lesotho. I got inspiration for this when visiting one of my favourite cafes in Brooklyn called Toby’s Estate. This could have something to do with the fact that they sell Australian coffee. (Full Disclosure: I don’t drink coffee, but all my Australian visitors do).
One of the best things about Toby’s Estate is the fabulous display wall. It provides hours of interesting gazing and is fun for us Aussies to try and pick out all the familiar items – Weatbix and cricket bats anyone?
Toby’s Estate Display Wall. Source: Share Design
On a recent visit to Toby’s, it got me thinking about installing a similar display wall at No.7 and trying to design it in a way that displays the number 7. Perhaps something similar to the rough sketch below:
These shelves would serve two purposes:
Firstly, to display artworks and products from local artists. This could be on a rotating basis and items would be for sale to support the local economy and artists. And secondly, to display historical and current Lesotho cultural items.
In the photo below you can see a range of items on display at Toby’s Estate, from old coffee-pressers to biscuit tins.
Here is a list of Lesotho items we could display as part of the No.7 Wall.
- Vintage Sewing Machine: The Lesotho textiles industry is the largest exporter of garments to the US from sub-Saharan Africa.
- Soccer Ball: Soccer is the oldest and biggest sporting discipline in the country.
- Goalie Gloves: Soccer memorabilia also ties in with Kick4life’s mission of using sport for development.
- Basotho Hat: The most recognizable symbol in the country.
What do you think of this idea? Happy to hear any other suggestions or feedback! Let me know in the comments section below.
– Penny xo
