Former NFL linebacker debuts African-inspired furniture line

Darryl and Jessica Sharpton, co-founders of Albany Park, share the story behind their exclusive Ẹkáàbọ̀ 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.