Empowering African Design: A Call for Sustainability and Innovation
At the forefront of innovation in the African design landscape, Bolarin Okunowo, the Managing Director of Chemical and Allied Products PLC (CAP), has called upon designers, architects, and builders across the continent to embrace sustainable materials that not only elevate aesthetics but also respect our environment. This compelling message resonated during the high-profile Design Week Lagos 2025, which stands as Africa’s premier design and innovation showcase.
In her keynote address titled “Colour, Materials & Innovation in Our Built Environment” at the Design Week Lagos Talks, Okunowo discussed how CAP’s flagship brand, Dulux, is spearheading a transformative movement throughout Africa with its cutting-edge, low-emission coatings, digital access tools, and tailored colour systems that cater specifically to the diverse African climates and cultural narratives.
“The built environment of tomorrow hinges on materials that are not only visually striking but also intelligent, efficient, and sustainable,” Okunowo articulated with passion. “At CAP PLC, we firmly believe that a foundation of sustainability is vital when designing spaces that inspire and endure.”
Among the exciting developments highlighted was CAP’s commitment to low-VOC coatings—innovations that significantly enhance indoor air quality while meeting international green building standards. The introduction of the Dulux Tint-Base System in 2022 is particularly noteworthy, allowing customers across Nigeria to choose from thousands of shades at their convenience.
Further emphasizing the importance of foundational work in design, Okunowo explained the critical role played by proper surface preparation. “The ultimate finish is determined by what lies beneath it,” she stated, crediting CAP’s Surface Preparation range, Caplux, for ensuring that surfaces are well-prepped for long-lasting results.
Innovation takes a digital turn with CAP’s newly revamped Dulux e-commerce platform. This digital initiative streamlines the process for both professionals and everyday homeowners to select, order, and receive their preferred paint choices right at their doorsteps. “Sustainability isn’t just about physical construction; it’s about empowering others to build responsibly,” she noted. “Through our innovations and digital access, we are making sustainable design solutions more inclusive across Africa.”
But Okunowo didn’t stop at sustainability; she also delved into the profound impact that colour has on our spaces and experiences. “Colour is transformative; it shapes emotion, boosts productivity, and reflects identity,” she explained, highlighting Dulux’s extensive research into how colour interacts with various elements.
Throughout the dynamic week-long event at Livespot Entertainium, CAP PLC showcased its latest Dulux innovations alongside an interactive booth, where visitors could explore product technologies and engage in discussions on colour psychology and climate resilience.
This year marked CAP’s second consecutive partnership with Design Week Lagos, reinforcing its mission of “Creating A New Africa Inspired by Colours.” By prioritizing sustainability, creativity, and innovation, CAP PLC is paving the way for a brighter, more sustainable future in the built environment across Africa.
