Irene Fajana speaks about home the way some people speak about identity. For her, it is not just a place, but a feeling of comfort, safety, belonging, and quiet self-expression. It is where memories are made, values are shaped, and everyday life unfolds with intention. That philosophy sits at the heart of Mai Haven, the home and lifestyle brand she is reintroducing after a thoughtful pause.
Having previously run two successful retail stores, Irene stepped back long enough to gain clarity, perspective, and a renewed sense of purpose. Motherhood, travel, and the rhythms of daily living deepened her understanding of what people truly want from their spaces—not perfection, but warmth, individuality, and ease. The return to home and lifestyle felt less like a business decision and more like a calling she could no longer ignore. With Mai Haven, she curates from lived experience—drawing inspiration from global markets, everyday family life, and her belief that a well-loved home quietly supports a well-lived life. In this conversation with Funke Babs Kufeji she reflects on what home really means to her, the lessons retail taught her, and why creating beautiful, comforting spaces will always be personal.
You describe yourself as a homemaker at heart. What does “home” really mean to you, and how has it shaped the life you’re building?
Home to me represents comfort, safety, and belonging. It is where memories are created, relationships are nurtured, and individuality is freely expressed. I believe home shapes daily routines, influences values, and provides a supportive environment to grow and thrive. It is not just a physical space, but the people and experiences within it. Building life around this idea of home means creating a welcoming atmosphere, prioritising meaningful connections, and cultivating a space that reflects personal identity. It is about finding joy in everyday moments, whether through shared meals, cosy gatherings, or quiet reflection. This sense of home inspires resilience and purpose, guiding my choices and aspirations toward a balanced and fulfilling life.
You once ran two successful retail stores. What are the biggest lessons you learned from that chapter?
Building strong customer connections is essential, as understanding customers’ needs and preferences helps foster loyalty and encourages repeat business. Adaptability is equally important in an ever-changing retail landscape and being flexible and open to change in areas such as product offerings or marketing strategies can make a significant difference in staying relevant.
What pulled you back into the home and lifestyle business after taking time off?
The pull back into the home and lifestyle business came from a deep-seated passion for creating spaces that reflect individuality and comfort. After time away, I realised how much I missed the joy of curating experiences and products that enhance daily living. Additionally, the desire to contribute positively to people’s environments and foster a sense of home became a driving force. Observing trends evolve and recognising the growing interest in personalised home spaces inspired me to re-engage with this field. Ultimately, it felt like a natural progression to return to something that aligns so closely with my values and interests, allowing me to blend creativity with a purpose.
You love to travel. How do the places you visit influence the items you choose for your store and your own home?
Travelling exposes me to diverse cultures, aesthetics, and design philosophies that greatly influence my selections for the store and my home. Each destination offers unique materials, craftsmanship, and colour palettes that spark inspiration. For instance, visiting markets in Morocco might introduce me to vibrant textiles, while the minimalism of Scandinavian design can influence how I curate functional, stylish pieces. These experiences encourage me to incorporate a global perspective, blending different styles to create a cohesive vibe.
As a mother of three and a business owner, how do you manage your time and keep your family life steady?
Balancing motherhood and business require intention and flexibility. I focus on clear priorities to manage my time effectively while staying present at home and work. Making space for self-care, even in small ways, helps me recharge. Embracing unpredictability and staying open to change allows me to navigate challenges with balance and clarity.
How would you describe your personal style when it comes to decorating your home and choosing your outfits?
My personal style is a blend of modern and contemporary, reflecting comfort, functionality and creativity. When it comes to outfits, I gravitate towards casual chic. I love pieces that are comfortable yet stylish. Overall, my style is about creating spaces and looks that feel authentic and resonate with warmth and individuality.
Where are your favourite places to shop for home accents and furniture, whether in Nigeria or abroad?
I have several favourite places for sourcing home accents and furniture, both in Nigeria and abroad, that help me create spaces filled with warmth and character. In Nigeria, Lekki Market stands out for its vibrant selection of handcrafted décor, textiles, and unique pieces. I also enjoy visiting local artisan markets, where handmade pottery and woven items add a personal, authentic touch. When sourcing abroad, Etsy is a go-to platform for one-of-a-kind handmade pieces from global artisans. West Elm is another favourite for its modern designs and sustainable materials. Whenever I travel, I visit local markets to find items that reflect culture and craftsmanship, helping me build a meaningful and personal home.
Why the name Mai Haven, and when people hear the name, what do you hope for it to resonate with them?
The name “Mai Haven” reflects a sense of comfort and sanctuary. “Mai” suggests a personal touch, implying that each piece is thoughtfully curated for the individual. “Haven” evokes a feeling of safety, warmth, and a retreat from the outside world, essentially a place where one can feel at home. When people hear the name, I hope it resonates as a space that celebrates personal style and individuality. I want them to feel that they can find unique, meaningful items that enhance their living spaces and reflect their personalities. The name is meant to convey that every item in the store contributes to creating a comforting environment, turning a house into a true home. Ultimately, I aspire for “Mai Haven” to evoke feelings of joy and inspiration, inviting customers to explore and discover pieces that resonate with their own stories and aesthetics.
What kinds of home goods does Mai Haven stock?
At Mai Haven, we stock items that help elevate your home. For example, towels, vases, bedside lamps, rugs, silk pyjamas, scented candles, to name a few.
What home décor or trends are you most excited for people to explore at your stores’ relaunch?
I am most excited for people to explore the varied décor pieces we have available—especially our extra-large mirrors.
What advice would you give to women who want to build a warm home, run a business, and still maintain their personal style?
Building a warm home while running a business and maintaining personal style can be rewarding but challenging. The key is being intentional and kind to yourself. Create a welcoming home with décor, photos, or art that reflects your personality. Practice balance by managing your time wisely, making room for work, family, self-care, and creativity. Do not let your personal style fade. Choose versatile wardrobe pieces and use accessories to express who you are. Stay flexible, as some seasons will demand more focus on business than others. Prioritise self-care to support your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Finally, celebrate small wins and acknowledge your progress, as these moments help you stay motivated and true to your style.
