There’s magic in the air at the House of MinaLima.
It’s the thirst that simply won’t be quenched. London’s love for all things Harry Potter is insatiable, with every year bringing a new way to celebrate The Boy Who Lived. However, if you sweep aside the themed afternoon teas and shopping departments, you’ll find something truly special. In the heart of Soho sits the House of MinaLima, which isn’t just run by Harry Potter fans – it’s run by the very people who helped bring Hogwarts to life. Last autumn, they movedt to a spellbinding new home with even more space for their magical creations, and having reopened after the latest lockdown, it’s high time you paid a visit! [Featured image: @minalimadesign]
Graphic designers Miraphora Mina & Eduardo Lima (Mina + Lima = MinaLima) accepted a dream job in 2002: helping to design the world of Harry Potter for the now-legendary film franchise. The duo worked on the style and graphics of all the Potter films, as well as the ongoing Fantastic Beasts series, alongside their own projects. Instead of taking a well-earned break from the wizarding world, they opened the House of MinaLima on Diagon Alley Greek Street in Soho, and in summer 2020, announced their move a few streets away to Wardour Street. Now, they welcome fellow Potterheads to geek out over their treasure trove of prints, books, and other objects.
Honestly, this is about as authentic a shop as you’ll find. Stuffed full of graphic art from the wizarding world, there are new and exciting things around every corner. For instance, get up to date with magical goings-on from old copies of The Daily Prophet.
You can also swot up for your OWLS by picking up a Hogwarts textbook – although they won’t teach you how to concoct Liquid Luck, since they’re actually notebooks.
A wander through the House of MinaLima takes you past designs for Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes, and includes artwork from the recent Fantastic Beasts series. But what you’re really after – what you’ve been after ever since you first cracked open The Philosopher’s Stone all those years ago – is a letter from Hogwarts. Don’t worry, they’re here too!
With four floors of graphic art and authentic film props, plus a shop full of stationery, prints, fabrics, and other curiosities, House of MinaLima has everything the discerning witch or wizard will need. Hop on the Northern Line – or grab the Floo powder – and head along for a magical day out!
Practical information
Also published on Medium.