ZAWADI opened on U St. in Washington, D. C. in 1992 and has grown and evolved along with the street which is now a major attraction for a diverse and well travelled population of city dwellers and visitors.
The owner, Irene T. Whalen, lived and worked in East, West and Southern Africa over a ten year period and thus brings to ZAWADI a knowledge of the continent which has helped create a very special mixture of contemporary and traditional pieces that reflect the very best of Africa.
ZAWADI features both contemporary and traditional african art with a focus on home acccessories. The textiles, home accessories and art pieces change frequently and are sometimes one of a kind. However, there is always something special to be found in Zawadi.