8 minute read

Interior Therapy

DARRYL & JESSICA SHARPTON

Advertisement

ALBANY PARK OFFICIALLY LAUNCHES NEW WEST AFRICAN-INSPIRED FURNITURE LINE, THE EKÁÀBO COLLECTION.

Albany Park, a hip-chic furniture brand founded by former NFL linebacker Darryl Sharpton and his wife Jessica, officially announce the launch of The Ẹkáàbọ̀ Collection, a limited-edition furniture line inspired by Ankara, the vibrant and electrifying West African wax prints. Following the successful release of the Akwaaba and Koyo prints last fall, Albany Park is debuting two more - Ademi and Idowu. Beginning tomorrow, Thursday, Feb. 18, the bold and welcoming patterns are available in both their Albany Collection and Park Collection models and currently available for purchase at www.albanypark.com.

Albany Park’s latest furniture line was borne out of Darryl’s learning – from a DNA test in 2019 – his roots originate in Nigeria. Eager to integrate more of the West African culture into the world around him, Darryl set out to bring a slice of Lagos - the excitement and vibrance of this city - home with him. In creating this new line, his ultimate goal is to transform the rhythm & soul of the culture into a unique statement piece. Whether enjoying a cup of coffee or just sinking into one’s couch, Darryl wants this new collection to represent its namesake - Ẹkáàbọ̀ [eh-ka-bō] - used by the Yoruba people across West Africa - to make others “feel at home.”

“As African Americans, our ancestry has been completely cut off. We’ve had to create our own culture,” said Darryl Sharpton, Albany Park’s Co-Founder and CEO. “Now, through this discovery, I’m able to retroactively add my heritage to the American melting pot and infuse it into my company and my products.”

The Ẹkáàbọ̀ Collection is a noticeable departure from the existing aesthetic in the home furniture space that focuses on trendy and affordable furniture with traditional textiles and colors. Incorporating Ankara prints, Albany Park’s new line

brings all of the electrifying energy of West African cities right into living rooms. Ankara prints carry a variety of distinct meanings, from nods at pop culture, to messages of good fortune; often a hidden message or wish to convey to the world. It’s a taste of tradition remixed with a contemporary design, waiting to welcome people all over the world home.

Darryl and Jessica aren’t strangers to the e-commerce furniture business. The couple launched Edloe Finch, a modern furniture brand born out of their love for furniture and for each other, in 2017. Much like their flagship brand, Albany Park is radically changing the way people shop for sofas with only three models that satisfy everyone’s needs, free delivery via UPS, and packaging that’s apartment-friendly and space conscious.

Albany Park is a remarkable furniture collection that’s stylish, super comfortable and perfect for relaxing. For more information about The Ẹkáàbọ̀ Collection, visit Albany Park’s website and engage in online conversation by tagging @albanyparkhome and #EkaaboAlbanyPark on Facebook and Instagram.

ABOUT ALBANY PARK

Albany Park, co-founded by former NFL linebacker Darryl Sharpton and his wife Jessica, is a hip-chic furniture brand offering high-quality timeless designs at an affordable price. Following the success of their flagship furniture brand, Edloe Finch, the Sharptons continue to disrupt the industry with contemporary sofas, sectionals, loveseats, armchairs, ottomans and more. Introduced in 2019, Albany Park is radically changing the way people shop for sofas with only three models that satisfy everyone’s needs, free delivery via UPS, and packaging that’s apartment-friendly and space conscious. Albany Park and Edloe Finch are estimated to complete $18 million in sales in 2020; up from $3.9 million in 2019. More information about Albany Park is available at www.albanypark.com.

Click photo to visit the instagram page

BILLIARDS NEVER LOOKED SO GOOD!

11 Ravens Stealth R-11

While playing pool can be relaxing and competitive, Playing on the new 11 Ravens Stealth R-11 places you in another world. Named after the iconic Stealth aircraft, this pool table is the luxury car of billards. Ravens will be unveiling a showroom at the Pacific Design Center this year. The official opening date is to be confirmed/announced. The showroom will be an immersive experience worthy of the 11 Ravens name, and is expected to highlight a number of best-selling 11 Ravens items as well as offer 11 Ravens tequila and chocolates from previous collaborations. While the table was being exclusively sold to the WHISPER group of Rolls Royce Owners, when it hits the market, you may have to decide between this table and a new car. With a ping pong table top addition, you can have some fun with anyone in the family. However, this is DEFINITELY a table that you better not put your drink on. Luxury has its name for a reason. Click on the table below to visit the 11 Raven Website.

WORKOUT WISH LIST

MaMask

Going back to the gym seems like more of a hassle than a benefit. YOu have to take clorox wipes, towels, some gyms have schedules that you have to sign up for, etc. However, one rule that is in place in many cities across the country is wearing a mask. Well, MoMask has one of the best fitness masks that I’ve work thus far. Its lightweight, breathable, stays in place, and washable . If youre going to workout, try one of these and you can thank me later.

Hydration is key. Thats what everyone has alwas said when it comes to working out and staying healthy. However, finding the perfect water bottle is always a pain in the butt. I personally can say I have at least seven bottles in my house. Thats not including the regular everyday water tumnblers. This bottle by HydroJug is a different level of great. First, it has a huge opening that you can dump ice cubes anbd fruit in. Imagins not having to dig out lemons from your water. Second, you can upgrade the purchase with a sleeve that has two pockets and a shoulder strap. Never worry about sitting your phone and keys on the floor in the gym again. THird, its a breezr to clean...you can literally put your entire hand in the bottle and wash it with a cloth or sponge if youd like or just throw it in the dishwasher. Hands down, this bottle is going to be with me for as long as i can keep it.

HYDROJUG WATER BOTTLE

BATTLE OF THE BEARDS

Gentlemen’s, how many of you have ever grown a beard or currently have one? Over the last several years, the notion that beards are a passing trend had been debated, debunked, and discussed again. When 2020 got all weird, we thought it was an end to the beard era. Some believed that those with beards were at higher risk of contracting Covid-19. In contrary, others believed that beards were an advantage creating a tighter seal when masks were worn. Unexpectedly, the beard trend continued. Beards give men a sense of masculinity and boosts their confidence. As we roll into 2021, the beard game remains rooted and is still the most popular facial hair style. So, the real question now is how have you been looking lately? And no, I am not referring to your clothes or your swag. How have you been styling your face? Have you been dressing it up or down? Regardless of where you are on your beard journey, there are many styles to sway. We teamed with our friends at BEARDOHOLIC.COM to sharesome beard style trends to attempt in 2021!

THE STYLES

The Five O’clock Shadow

Also known as a stubble beard it is classic and timeless. Men who can grow beards evenly without patches will be the best candidate for this style. Women also find this to be the sexiest on a man.

Goatee

Another classic style: the goatee is a piece of several popular beards together. It is grown on the chin and does not go back the corner of one’s mouth. Some even pair it with a mustache. There are also many variations so have fun with it.

Van Dyke

A spinoff from the Goatee, you can grow a separated mustache to pair with the goatee. The beard however is narrower.

Corporate Beard

Men who can successfully grow a natural beard will be able to sway this look. It is well shaped and tamed suitable for professionals. It is essential to keep it well groom and tidy. Invest in a good beard trimmer while you are at it. Ducktail Beard

This style is considered medium length full beard. It starts at the cheeks and come down to a point extending 2-4 inches long. Again, just be sure to keep it trimmed and groom.

Hollywoodian

Another easy style is the Hollywoodian. All you need to do is let your beard grow to its natural state. Then, shave off the sideburns and that is it. Pretty easy uh?

Mutton Chop

If you like Wolverine, from X-men, you might like the Mutton chop. It connects the beard, which only grow along the jawlines, with the mustache. There is no hair in the chin.

Chin Strap

Finally, the chin strap. This style wraps from your sideburns tracing your jawline to your chin. You can keep it thick or thin. It is more suitable for those that have challenges with growing a beard.

Ultimately, regardless of what you choose to sway, own it and rock it. That is most attractive and satisfying. Which one is your favorite?