Interviews
Nani Marquina: The art of the everyday rug
Spanish designer Nani Marquina set out to reinvent the rug, and ended up building one of the most distinctive textile brands in the world. In this exclusive interview, she talks creativity, craftsmanship and what drives her after almost 40 years.
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Inga Sempé finds beauty in the everyday – and turns it into something extraordinary
From her Paris studio, French designer Inga Sempé creates objects that are witty, precise, and utterly her own: lamps, sofas, and everyday things that don’t take themselves too seriously. We sat down with her to talk about daily life, long processes, and why good design should always be worth fighting for.
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Marimekko’s beloved prints come to life at its own textile printing factory
“About one million metres of fabric are printed at Marimekko’s textile printing factory in Helsinki each year,” says Minna Kemell-Kutvonen, Marimekko’s Design Director, Home & Print Design. In her interview with Design Stories, Kemell-Kutvonen shares why the company’s own printing factory remains at the heart of Marimekko’s print design – and what happens before the brand’s bold colours and expressive prints become fabrics, clothing and home textiles.
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Shirley Villavicencio Pizango’s colorful world comes to life with Serax
In Shirley Villavicencio Pizango’s work, people and objects exist side by side in richly layered interiors. Now, her imagined ceramics have become real in a collaboration with Serax. We visited the artist in her Ghent studio.
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Gustav Winsth reshapes steel with Muuto’s Pleat Mirror
Stockholm-based designer Gustav Winsth’s Pleat Mirror for Muuto transforms a rigid material into something unexpectedly fluid. Crafted from folded stainless steel, the mirror balances precision and experimentation, reflecting both Winsth’s engineering background and his intuitive, hands-on approach to making.
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Inside Fredrik Bull’s Oslo home: A space made to be lived in
Interior architect Fredrik Bull doesn’t believe in fitting into one box – neither in his work nor at home. In his Oslo apartment, design, art, and everyday life come together in a space shaped by curiosity and constant change.
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In the studio with designer Maria Bruun
With its gently asymmetrical shape, Maria Bruun’s Re-Norm table reconsiders long-held ideas about how we sit together. Together with Muuto, we visited the Danish designer’s studio in Copenhagen to hear how the concept evolved into a table shaped by today’s ways of gathering.
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Inside the world of Alberto Alessi
Few companies have shaped the world of design quite like Alessi. For more than a century, the Italian “design factory” has transformed everyday objects into cultural icons through collaborations with some of the world’s most celebrated designers. Design Stories had the rare opportunity to meet Alberto Alessi at the company headquarters in Omegna – and to visit his home and vineyard overlooking Lake Orta.
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“Fiskars LAB is our playground for creativity,” says Chief Design Officer Petteri Masalin
Within Fiskars – the brand known for its iconic orange-handled scissors, cookware, and gardening tools – operates a kind of experimental design lab: Fiskars LAB. It’s a passion project for Chief Design Officer Petteri Masalin, a place where the team can explore and test new, even unconventional, ideas.
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Pizza, pine, and the power of making: A day with Fredrik Paulsen
In this exclusive interview, designer Fredrik Paulsen invites us into his creative life in Stockholm – from hands-on work at his spacious Årsta studio to catching up with friends over pizza. Known for his fearless approach to color and craft, Fredrik talks about finding inspiration in the everyday.
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Muller Van Severen: “What matters is to focus on what truly interests us”
From visual artists to superstars of Belgian design, Fien Muller and Hannes Van Severen have forged a bold and unmistakable design language that is easy to fall in love with. In an interview with Design Stories, the couple reveals how their daring mix of art, colour, and form grew into a recipe for international acclaim.
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Ronan Bouroullec: “Finnish pine is a marvellous material”
Designer Ronan Bouroullec moves between mediums, materials and scales with ease. To each new project he brings a philosophy of thoughtful, empathetic design. We asked Ronan – in conversation with writer Laura Houseley – how the Maasto family of furniture for Vaarnii reflects his design ethos, and how he got away with introducing plywood to the Vaarnii range.
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Beauty, balance and a touch of pink – the making of Cream Files Studios
In the heart of Helsinki, a soft pink sanctuary awaits. Cream Files Studios is the long-time dream of makeup artist Eevis Liedes, brought to life in collaboration with Finnish Design Shop’s Contract Sales team. The studio offers experiences for both the skin and the senses – step inside and fall in love!
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Inside the heart of creativity – Visiting Aspekt Office’s studio in Copenhagen
Danish design studio Aspekt Office creates more than just products; they craft entire worlds where experimentation and functionality meet. Design Stories visited their Copenhagen studio – come along for a glimpse inside!
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The story of LAYERED: From a personal need to new take on Scandinavian design
When Malin Glemme couldn’t find the perfect rug, she decided to design one herself – and LAYERED was born. Today, the brand is celebrated for its bold and artistic rugs that redefine Scandinavian interiors. Read Design Stories’ interview to learn how LAYERED became a design trendsetter and what makes its rugs truly unique.
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Bringing Moomin stories to life – Annika Tickle on design, heritage, and playfulness
What is it like to work with the beloved Moomins every day? Annika Tickle knows firsthand. Her team is behind Moomin Arabia’s latest Moomin tableware and home textiles, transforming Tove Jansson’s original illustrations into playful, modern-day collectibles. Design Stories had the pleasure of meeting Annika – read on for our exclusive interview!
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Yrjö Kukkapuro’s studio is a source of limitless inspiration
Studio Kukkapuro, which was the home and workspace of Yrjö Kukkapuro and graphic artist Irmeli Kukkapuro for decades, is an international attraction. Design Stories had the pleasure of visiting the studio in spring 2021 and hearing about Yrjö Kukkapuro’s life’s work and the importance of the space and collaboration for creativity.
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Shaping the future of light – Alessandro Sarfatti on Astep’s vision and heritage
Alessandro Sarfatti, founder of the lighting company Astep, aims to make a difference by doing things as well as he possibly can. Design Stories caught up with Sarfatti – read the exclusive interview and discover Astep’s captivating lighting designs!
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Harmony of light, shadow, and darkness – Wästberg’s lamps embrace the beauty of dimness
The Swedish brand Wästberg creates minimalist designer lamps that bring subtle and adaptable illumination to any space. Design Stories had the pleasure of meeting Magnus Wästberg at the company’s Malmö office – discover the inspiring designs in our exclusive feature!
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Paavo Tynell and the Danish recipe for success – an interview with GUBI’s Marie Kristine Schmidt
The Danish design brand GUBI is reviving the lamps of Finnish designer Paavo Tynell and boldly introducing them to a global audience. GUBI’s Chief Brand Officer, Marie Kristine Schmidt, shares her insights into this shared journey.
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Designer John Tree sends ideas on a journey
The work of British designer John Tree can be found in the collections of HAY, Muuto, and Nine – and now also in Finnish brand Vaarnii’s product range. For Tree, design is about problem-solving, where ideas ultimately find their own path. Read John Tree’s exclusive interview on Design Stories!
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Designing modern icons: A conversation with Simon Legald of Normann Copenhagen
Simon Legald, the creative force behind best-selling designs like the Form Chair, Bit Stool, and Block Table, works as Head of Design at the Danish brand Normann Copenhagen. Design Stories sat down with Simon to chat about his journey and the creative process behind these beloved pieces – join us for an exclusive look into his world!
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Turn your home into a playground! PELATA pieces puts the fun in functional
PELATA pieces launched in 2024 to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Finnish Design Shop. Crafted by celebrated Nordic designers, the wooden games and instruments are the perfect excuse to bring friends together. We caught up with TAF Studio, Anderssen & Voll, Studio Tolvanen, and Kaksikko to get the inside scoop.
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Secto Design is committed to Finnish birch and fine craftsmanship
As a little boy, licking stamps for the invoices of his mother's company, Joakim Jusélius most likely could not foresee one day being the owner of Secto Design. Discover what’s new for the family-run lighting company that trusts in sustainable Finnish manufacturing, including the new Kumulo pendant.
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Chilling in the sun: Note Design Studio’s Sine outdoor chairs invite you to relax
Designed by Swedish Note Design Studio, the Sine outdoor furniture combines practicality and elegant colors with stylish yet casual design. Design Stories visited Note Design Studio in Stockholm – read our exclusive interview and check out the new Sine furniture!
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Janni Vepsäläinen is steering Iittala towards a new era
“At the heart of Iittala has always been an experimental, open-minded, and bold approach to design,” says Iittala’s creative director Janni Vepsäläinen. Read the exclusive Design Stories interview to find out how the beloved Finnish brand was revamped, logo included – and what Vepsäläinen’s own Iittala favorites are!
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Stine Liv Buur is in her dream job at Vitra, working with Eames furniture
Stine Liv Buur, who is in charge of Vitra’s classic furniture collection, is in her dream job where she gets to delve into design archives. The furniture created by Charles & Ray Eames are a passion for her but at the moment, however, the most important thing is the sustainability of the Eames collection.
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Inspiring joy and intuition – this is how the winning entries in the Paimio Sanatorium 90 – Human Perspective poster competition were created
In the poster competition organized to celebrate the anniversaries of the Paimio Sanatorium Foundation and Grafia, the Association of Visual Communication Designers in Finland, the participants were invited to interpret Aino and Alvar Aalto’s vision of the human relationship with the environment, architecture and design. We asked the designers awarded in the poster competition what inspires them most about the Aaltos’ design legacy.
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For designer Fredrik Paulsen, pine is the mightiest of materials
Swedish designer Fredrik Paulsen and Finnish furniture manufacturer Vaarnii share not only a similar set of values but also an enduring love for pine. In Design Stories’ interview, the DIY and counterculture advocate talks about his journey into the world of design and his new 001 stool for Vaarnii.
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Helsinki Design Week’s Anni Korkman: “It’s time to bring new perspectives to the story”
Anni Korkman, the Program Director of Helsinki Design Week, sees the sustainability shift in the design industry as an opportunity to challenge our notions of beauty. She also hopes to create space for a more diverse group of creators. See what events Anni Korkman recommends from the 2023 program – and how Finnish Design Shop is involved!
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Quality sofa manufacturer Interface has turned over a new leaf, but Finnish production still remains a priority
The Finnish brand Interface has been operating for quite some time in the sofa manufacturing business. The company recently decided it was time for a change. But how did Interface originally come to be, and what are the central tenets of its design philosophy? We interviewed CEO Tuukka Leppänen, who also let us take a peek at the company’s manufacturing facilities in Heinola, Finland.
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Anna Vartiainen: “Internationality is about exchange and interaction – at its best, it enables a broader understanding”
Anna Vartiainen, communications director and member of the jury of the Paimio Sanatorium 90 – Human Perspective poster competition, is working with the Paimio Sanatorium Foundation to outline guidelines for the future of the landmark building designed by Aino and Alvar Aalto. Design Stories got to visit Anna above the rooftops of Helsinki—where, by complete surprise, we found a bit of Paris.
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Graphic designer Ilkka Kärkkäinen: “Our society craves for things to feel like something”
Ilkka Kärkkäinen, head of the jury of the Paimio Sanatorium 90 poster competition, wants to engage with an open mind in things that stand the test of time. In this Design Stories interview, he talks about the effect of Aino and Alvar Aalto on his work as a graphic artist – and gives a few tips on those submitting entries to the poster competition!
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Krøyer-Sætter-Lassen’s latest designs for MENU illuminate the home with new perspectives
Danish studio Krøyer-Sætter-Lassen has been busy working with MENU, launching not one but two new luminous designs this year. Design Stories sat down with Emil Krøyer and Mads Sætter-Lassen to talk about their latest projects, how the duo works as a team, and to hear the story of how they first began collaborating with MENU.
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Colors and shapes overlap, intertwine and merge in the Blending collection designed by Minni Havas for Finarte
Finnish design brand Finarte’s latest collection was created in collaboration with illustrator and textile designer Minni Havas. The rug and throw designs are infused with bold colors and striking forms that merge in fascinating ways – the central theme and the name of the collection is Blending.
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Designer Carina Seth Andersson: “The Sand Secrets collection lets the food take center stage”
Carina Seth Andersson created the Sand Secrets collection as a continuation of Design House Stockholm's Sand tableware series. Design Stories chatted with the designer about the idea behind the minimalist pieces and how some considered contrast can make all the difference in a table setting.
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Tom Chung’s adventurous Piton lamp draws inspiration from a desire for wilderness
Created by designer Tom Chung for Muuto, the adventurous Piton lamp surprises with its creative versatility. Design Stories got to chat with Chung, who revealed the story behind Piton and his own guideline for decorating.
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Designer Laura Seppänen: “Being comfortable in my own skin also benefits my clients”
Laura Seppänen is highly regarded as a designer of stylish spaces and beautiful interior images, and a product designer whose social media feeds not only offer inspiring interior design ideas but also hard-hitting criticism of the construction industry. What was Laura’s path to becoming an interior design entrepreneur?
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MUM’s Typewriter Collection by Tomi Leppänen plays with typographic elements
Graphic designer and musician Tomi Leppänen created a series of playful outdoor rugs for the Finnish brand MUM’s. But why is the collection called Typewriter and what does Bauhaus master Anni Albers have to do with it? Read on to find out!
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Furniture designer Tapio Anttila: “I always have my antennae up”
Finnish designer Tapio Anttila's very own furniture line, Tapio Anttila Collection, creates timeless, functional, and responsible designs. In an interview with Design Stories, the long-time designer and interior architect talks about how important it is to consider sustainability at all stages of the design process.
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Rolf Hay: “HAY’s intention is to create great, affordable products with the best designers in the world”
Founded by Rolf and Mette Hay, HAY is a Danish – and increasingly international – design company that celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2022. In an interview with Design Stories, Rolf Hay talks about recipes for relevant and timeless designs as well as HAY’s plans for the next two decades.
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Darkroom artist Mikael Siirilä: “For me, photography is all about the darkroom”
Finnish photographer and darkroom artist Mikael Siirilä is known for his black-and-white works created using the traditional silver gelatin method. In Siirilä's posters for the Danish Paper Collective, everyday encounters and objects take on poetic, abstract forms – especially when they are not fully there.
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Tikau founder Taina Snellman-Langenskiöld: “Tikau is based on a true wish to help”
Founded in 2008, Tikau not only enriches people’s lives with timeless designs but also wants to be a frontrunner in responsible production. We chatted with founder Taina Snellman-Langenskiöld about Tikau’s story, selection and – above all – sustainability.
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Henrik Tjærby’s Osa outdoor furniture puts pine back on the map
Finnish design disruptor Vaarnii challenged Danish designer Henrik Tjærby to create a series of outdoor furniture made entirely of pinewood. The often-overlooked material set a certain frame for the creative process, but Tjærby tells Design Stories that the characteristics of pine actually worked in his favor.
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How to make your home more functional? We asked, and interior architect Hanni Koroma answered
Hanni Koroma is known as an interior architect who can design spaces in which old and new are delicately interwoven. Design Stories went to her for advice on how to make your home more functional and cozy.
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Franckly – home to a creative team of vintage design experts
Franckly is a thriving pre-owned online design marketplace run by a team that’s passionate about curated vintage design and responsible consumption. Design Stories interviewed Franckly’s Sales Manager Lotta Kuuteri, who has found her calling in the marvelous world of pre-owned design.
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Danish company Montana Furniture believes in the power of colors and versatile product design
Montana Furniture is all about color and joy from the get-go. Joakim Lassen, CEO of the Danish company known for storage furniture, tells Design Stories that versatility and a curated color palette are still at the heart of the business. He also reveals his favorite places in Copenhagen.
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Finnish Design Shop’s Customer Service team is here to help you with any and all questions about Nordic design
Ever wondered what’s it like to work in the multi-channel customer service of the world’s largest online store specialized in Nordic design? We talked to Matias Rahkola, a Design Sales Representative at Finnish Design Shop, who thinks the best parts of the job are solving tricky situations, versatile tasks and duties, and the unwavering support of the team.
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The Juslin Maunula x Finarte rug collection was inspired by fashion and architecture
Design studio Juslin Maunula teamed up with Finnish brand Finarte to create a striking rug collection that plays with textures, colors, and proportions. In an interview with Design Stories, the duo talks about their design process and the inspiration behind the collection.
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Finnish Design Shop’s Contract Sales supplies design for projects worldwide – whether it be Milwaukee or the Maledives
With an address book spanning the globe, Finnish Design Shop’s Contract Sales team provides clients with design products that suit their needs, swiftly and with professional pride. Design Stories sat down with Contract Sales Manager Annika Kairento, who enjoys the scope of projects, ranging from restaurants to office spaces – not to mention a warm, welcoming church building.
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Human rights trainer Dakota Robin: “Amplifying under-represented voices is what matters most”
Diversity, equity and inclusion specialist Dakota Robin works with several organizations, including Inklusiiv, which Finnish Design Shop supports as a community member. Robin spoke with Design Stories about guidelines to help enable encounters that are free from bias and discrimination, both in person and online.
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Arni Aromaa’s Primordial Animal sculptures leave room for interpretation
Arni Aromaa’s ambiguous Primordial Animals are crafted in small series, making each sculpture a unique piece of art. Design Stories asked the Finnish designer and artist how the adorable creatures came to be and what makes ceramics such a fascinating material.
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Inner Circle tableware by Maarten Baas gives an organic touch to table settings
The Inner Circle tableware collection, designed by Maarten Baas for Valerie Objects, is based on asymmetry and deliberate imperfection. Design Stories chatted with Baas about his unique approach to design.
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Pertti Männistö has accumulated the world’s largest collection of treasures by Aino and Alvar Aalto
Pertti Männistö has collected an incredibly extensive collection of lamps and furniture designed by Aino and Alvar Aalto. The collector’s home in Kaarina, Finland, is also decorated with Aalto furniture that exudes timeless beauty. Timeless indeed – the newest furniture in Männistö’s Aalto collection was made in the 1960s.
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Textile designer Elina Helenius: “VM Carpet’s Duo rugs look and feel just as I had envisioned”
Designed by Elina Helenius for VM Carpet, the Duo rug collection boasts a beautifully natural look that stems both from the eco-friendly materials and the timeless, nature-inspired patterns. We chatted with the designer about the rugs' journey from idea to final product.
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Illustrator Matti Pikkujämsä: “I’m at my happiest when I’m drawing”
The beloved, award-winning Matti Pikkujämsä will start drawing first thing in the morning, and takes out his sketchbook during the day many times. Part of his artistry consists of portraits, which can make their subjects either cry and laugh.
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Cover Story’s Anssi Jokinen: “Wall color is the interior’s most important element”
Paint brand Cover Story sees painting as decorating, not renovating. That’s why they try to make buying and using their paints as effortless as possible to encourage people to decorate with color.
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Mac Collins’ 009 pinewood bowls are a combination of stocky and sculptural
Mac Collins is one of the designers who contributed to Finnish brand Vaarnii’s debut collection. Collins’ wooden bowls perfectly capture the brand’s unique aesthetics, where brutalism meets sophistication.
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Herman Studio: “We aim to balance the contrast between the elegant and the powerful”
Helle Herman Mortensen and Jonas Herman Pedersen work closely together with both their design agency Herman Studio and the Form & Refine brand. In an interview with Design Stories, the designer couple sheds light on their creative process and what makes their collaboration work so well.
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Finnish Design Shop becomes carbon-neutral by protecting forest biodiversity
Starting from 2021, Finnish Design Shop will be offsetting its carbon dioxide emissions by protecting Finnish forests. According to CEO Teemu Kiiski, forest conservation is an effective way of both compensating for emissions and helping biodiversity to thrive.
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COMPANY’s design explorers Aamu Song and Johan Olin
Aamu Song and Johan Olin of design studio COMPANY get to know and work with local artisans on their travels. The result is distinctive and warmly humorous products with influences from different parts of the world. Design Stories met the couple in their light-filled atelier in the artists' residence Lallukka in Helsinki.
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Designer Katriina Nuutinen: “When you give something from yourself, you will get it back manyfold”
Finnish designer Katriina Nuutinen's glassware is characterized by a delicate nature that stems not only from the fragile material but also from Nuutinen's own personality. In an interview with Design Stories, she explains how she has harnessed her sensitivity as a resource for her design work.
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Thomas Bentzen’s Cover chair family was designed for togetherness
The Cover chair family, designed by Thomas Bentzen for Muuto, took a long time and a lot of work to develop. In an interview with Design Stories, Bentzen reminisces on the design process that lasted more than three years – and praises the patience of the manufacturer.
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The Saari pattern by Aoi Yoshizawa conveys a serene archipelago atmosphere
Aoi Yoshizawa designed the gradient Saari pattern for Lapuan Kankurit. Interviewed by Design Stories, Yoshizawa talks about the stages of the design process and the magical views from the Harakka island in Helsinki.
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Lundia’s classic bookshelf combines Finnish pine and rattan
The bookshelves made by Finnish Lundia still have the same structure as seventy-three years ago, but their look and feel are quite modern. We talked about ecological and modifiable furniture with Lundia’s Chief Executive Officer Karri Koskelo.
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Vaarnii prefers designing discussion pieces to playing it safe
Vaarnii is a new design brand that manufactures furniture from Finnish wood. We met with the founders, Antti Hirvonen and Miklu Silvanto, whose long journey to founding their own company has granted them a lot of perspective along the way. Vaarnii is staunchly Finnish, but what does being Finnish actually mean?
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Mette Hay on curating HAY Accessories: “Most of it is instinct”
HAY co-founder Mette Hay is the creative director of HAY Accessories and responsible for curating the accessory selection with her team. In Design Stories’ interview, she talks about the aspects that make the task challenging and the ones that make it so rewarding – and also reveals her current favorite HAY product.
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Knut Bendik Humlevik: “New Works represents a whole aesthetic universe”
Danish design brand New Works strives to rethink Scandinavian design traditions. Design Stories had a chat with Knut Bendik Humlevik, the Creative Director and co-founder of New Works, who wants to cherish creative experiments and offer some peaceful moments in this hectic world.
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Hay’s Bonbon lampshades by Ana Kraš merge two different design worlds
Designed by Ana Kraš, Hay's Bonbon lampshades fuse large-scale production and delicate artisanship, all the while offering a multitude of possible uses. We chatted with the New York-based designer and artist about how the playful lampshades came to be.
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The Zig Zag shelf by Studio deFORM was created to solve a real-life dilemma
Studio deFORM designed the flat-pack Zig Zag shelf inspired their own experiences of moving. The innovative shelf can be assembled in under a minute by simply stretching it into shape.
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Lapuan Kankurit – high-class linen from Finland
Known for their high-quality linen adorned with delightful patterns, Finnish Lapuan Kankurit has a long history in weaving. The family-owned business continues to produce their linen and wool textiles at their own weaving mill in Lapua, Finland.
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The Kartta sculpture by Santtu Mustonen challenges Iittala’s glassblowers
Designed in celebration of the 140th anniversary of Iittala, the Kartta glass sculptures were created in collaboration with artist Santtu Mustonen and master glassblower Heikki Punkari. We had the chance to visit the Iittala glassworks and see how the challenging pieces are made.
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Laura Väre: “I want my products to bring joy for decades to come”
Furniture designer Laura Väre has a clear vision of her own style, in which she combines a reduced design language with innovative solutions and refreshing details. Having aimed for the creative field since she was a child, Väre wants to pay attention not only to the aesthetics but also to the sustainability of her designs.
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Showroom Finland brings light and order to homes
Showroom Finland has been exporting Finnish design worldwide for twenty years. The popular Pilke lamps and multi-purpose Mixrack storage items have become favorites. Design Stories met the company’s founders and learned that there are fans of the brand’s products in faraway places like Mexico.
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Muuto co-founder Peter Bonnén jumped into the world of cosmetics – Nuori revolves around freshness
”I wanted to find a way to combine my business side and my creative side.” In Design Stories’ interview, Peter Bonnén talks about his career from the time before Muuto to his current job at Nuori, a cosmetic brand founded by his wife Jasmi Bonnén.
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Matri brings Nordic design into the bedroom
Matri creates beds for good sleep and timeless decor items for bedrooms – and a design experience on top of it. Design Stories met with Matri’s creative director Elli Lehnhoff and found out where a good night’s sleep begins.
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Studio Tolvanen’s modern bird feeder Bird Silo invites feathered friends to the garden
The Bird Silo, designed by Studio Tolvanen for their new brand Pidät, got its distinctive conical shape from an old grain silo. In Design Stories’ interview, designers and keen bird watchers Julie and Mika Tolvanen share their story about the new bird feeder and the Pidät brand.
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Lunar pendant by Johanna Hartikainen depicts the phases of the moon
Designer Johanna Hartikainen's Lunar luminaire is one of Woud's fall novelties. The sculptural pendant lamp is inspired by natural phenomena – and especially the night sky.
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Fatboy brings a pop of color to uncertain times
Few brands are as cheerful and undeniably positive as Fatboy. Design Stories met with the brand's Creative Director Pauline Barendregt to talk about Fatboy's colorful essence, her favorite projects and one of the most surprising design collaborations of the year.
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Nikari and Woodnotes join forces
Two Finnish veterans of the design industry, Nikari, known for its solid wood furniture, and Woodnotes, known for its paper yarn carpets and furniture, will begin collaborating. We asked Johanna Vuorio of Nikari and Mikko Puotila of Woodnotes what was behind this surprise announcement.
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Hem’s Petrus Palmér: “We want to work with next generation icons”
Swedish design brand Hem wants to work with designers that are on their own trajectory. We talked with Hem’s Petrus Palmér on the secrets of successful collaboration and creating products that make a mark in history.
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TAF Studio’s Museum side table keeps your belongings on a pedestal
Designed for String Furniture by the Swedish TAF Studio, the Museum shelf has got company from a matching side table that, like the shelf, can be used for a variety of purposes. Find out how TAF Studio’s Mattias Ståhlblom and Gabriella Gustafson would use the new table!
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Verso Design combines natural materials and clean shapes
Finnish Verso Design manufactures wooden baskets that even the Japanese tidying guru Marie Kondo recommends to her customers. Verso Design’s timeless interior design products are innovated by a team of three female designers: Kirsikka Savonen, Tuttu Sillanpää, and Tuuli Burman – a mother and her two daughters.
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The Pleat pitcher by Omayra Maymó was born from an ambitious research project
In her master's project, designer Omayra Maymó collaborated with Danish brand New Works to find ways of bringing individuality and character to industrial production. We interviewed the Spanish designer to learn more about the demanding undertaking and the Pleat pitcher that resulted from it.
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Together but separately – Dejlig, Ratia Stories and Studio Elisa Manninen enjoy working in a shared space
Three Finnish interior design studios have settled at one table in an office in Ullanlinna, Helsinki. In this interview, Tiina Hautala, Laura Ratia and Elisa Manninen tell us what it is like to share a workspace with competing professionals. We can already reveal that in fact, there is no competition at all.
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David Geckeler creates contemporary pieces deeply rooted in Scandinavian traditions
Designer David Geckeler is known for his detail-oriented approach and his love for the Scandinavian design heritage. Muuto's acclaimed Nerd chair created by Geckeler has swiftly reached the status of a coveted modern classic. Design Stories sat down with David Geckeler to find out more about his inspiring work.
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Mifuko’s baskets combine Finnish design and Kenyan craftsmanship
Finnish design expertise has brought Kenyan baskets to homes all around the world. Mifuko’s Kiondo baskets maintain local handicraft traditions and provide small-scale farmers with additional income. The founders of the company, Mari Martikainen and Minna Impiö, want to change the world with design at the forefront.
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Tonfisk Design’s Brian Keaney combines unique form with function: “I wanted to create a mug my dad would use”
The ceramic teaware collection Warm was Brian Keaney's final work at the university, and also the key to success for Tonfisk Design. In Design Stories' interview, Keaney delves into the 20-year history and future plans of the award-winning Finnish design company.
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Lumitiikeri enchants at the Tuusula Housing Fair with its harmonious atmosphere
Laura Seppänen designed an interior for the Lumitiikeri house at the 2020 Housing Fair, which stands the test of time and soothes with its minimalism. She struck a common chord with the future owners of the residence right from the start.
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Jonas Lutz’ Leaf shelves are the result of experimentation
Finnish-born Jonas Lutz is the designer behind Form & Refine’s Leaf shelves made from wood offcuts. As is often the case for the Rotterdam-based designer’s works, the shelves were created by experimenting and testing new things.
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Janne Reponen’s 3D images are startlingly realistic
Janne Reponen is one of the best 3D image-makers in Finland. His interior images are almost invariably mistaken for real photos, despite everything – from lighting to shadows – being created and finalized on a computer. Design Stories met Reponen who shared with us how to tell the difference between a real photo and a rendering.
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Tekla is taking home textiles back to the basics
Tekla is a Copenhagen based textile brand created in 2017, providing a range of thoughtful fabrics to meet the needs and desires of a sustainable home. Design Stories sat down with Tekla's creator Charlie Hedin to hear more about the conscious and coveted products, and to learn what makes their high-quality designs so irresistible.
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Finarte weaves together age-old handicraft traditions and sustainability
Finarte’s popular rugs combine the beauty of handicrafts with sustainable materials. Design Stories met CEO Larissa Immonen, who was only taking her first steps when her parents founded the design company in 1985.
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The Tulppaani pattern by Helmi Liikanen reflects the joy of creation
The new spring line of the Finnish brand Lapuan Kankurit features a cheerful flower pattern called Tulppaani, designed by a young Finnish talent, Helmi Liikanen. We chatted with the textile designer about her collaboration with the family-owned company as well as the inspiration behind the playful design.
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Le Klint’s popular lamps are pleated by hand in Denmark
Le Klint is a traditional Danish lamp maker known for classic designs dating back to the 1940s. All its products are still handmade in Odense, Denmark. Design Stories interviewed the company’s CEO, Kim Weckstrøm Jensen, who had a career in the army before turning to the field of design.
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Textile designer Ritva Puotila: “My creativity has not vanished with age”
Ritva Puotila, artistic director of Woodnotes, and one of its two founders, is among Finland’s most successful and award-winning designers. Design Stories had the honor of meeting her in her home to discuss maintaining creativity and the turning points of her long career.
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Passion for design runs in the family for Danish Sibast Furniture
Danish design brand Sibast Furniture takes pride in carrying on the Sibast family’s design legacy with relaunches of Helge Sibast’s classic designs, manufactured in Denmark. We talked with Anna Sibast about craftsmanship and bringing the Sibast family’s design heritage to a new century.
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Anderssen & Voll’s new designs for Nofred spark children’s imagination
The new launches of the Danish brand Nofred bring playful functionality to the kids’ room or hallway. The design studio behind the items, Anderssen & Voll, wanted to create kids’ furniture that, in addition to their actual function, would be fun for kids to play with.
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Ferm Living’s founder Trine Andersen: “We want to make you feel comfortable at home”
Since 2006 when Ferm Living was founded, the Danish design brand has grown into an inspiring forerunner in modern Scandinavian home decor. We talked to Trine Andersen about the latest collection and learned how it all started with a hunt for the perfect wallpaper.
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Muuto’s Ridge vase brings a touch of Paris to your home
Kaksikko, also known as the design duo Wesley Walters and Salla Luhtasela, created the architecturally inspired Ridge vase for the Danish design house Muuto.
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The Kubus candleholder combines minimalism and precise mathematical calculations
The Danish company By Lassen makes accessories and furniture designed by two pioneers of functionalism, Mogens Lassen and Flemming Lassen. The designs of the Danish architect brothers are complemented by new products, created with the same geometrical approach.
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Harri Koskinen: “Design begins with dialogue”
Harri Koskinen has designed a turntable, which even the most discerning interior designer would love. Alongside his many other tasks, he is involved in the Iwatemo project, which has brought together Finnish design and Japanese craftsmanship. Design Stories interviewed one of Finland's most successful designers, who also gave us some top LP tips.
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Andreas Martin-Löf looks into the future backwards
Andreas Martin-Löf, who designed Frama's AML stool carrying his initials, does not forget about the past when creating new items.
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An internationalized teenager – Finnish Design Shop celebrates its 15th anniversary
15 years ago, Finnish Design Shop CEO Teemu Kiiski founded an online store sharing the pieces of Nordic happiness with the world.
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An Artek classic with a new look: The Publics stool is part of Finnish Design Shop's anniversary collection
The Publics stool designed for the interior of the Publics library in Helsinki is part of Finnish Design Shop's 15th anniversary collection. Valerio Di Lucente, the designer of the updated version of the stool, wished to emphasize Alvar Aalto's timeless design and innovative L-leg structure.
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GamFratesi brings two worlds together
Design studio GamFratesi’s strength lies in the different backgrounds of its leading characters, Enrico Fratesi and Stine Gam. When designing new products, these opposing forces draw strength from each other, creating a balanced new item.
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Poiat wants to take on the world
Timo Mikkonen and Antti Rouhunkoski design timelessly, but with time. The work of design studio Poiat combines minimalism with rich materials.
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Jo Nagasaka colored Artek classics with his ColoRing technique
Japanese architect and designer, Jo Nagasaka, has used traditional Japanese methods to add new colors to Alvar Aalto's classic furniture. He has his sights set on designing a sauna next.
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Nuura's Creative Director Sofie Refer: “We want to create lights that reflect the joy you find in nature”
Lighting company Nuura is a shiny newcomer based on several years of work and decades of experience. We had a chat with Creative Director and co-founder Sofie Refer, who says that every great design wants to convey a message.
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Kvadrat pushes the boundaries of textile design
Kvadrat’s top textiles from rugs to upholstery fabrics are born from micro innovation and the diversity of their designers. Founded in 1968, the Danish company finds inspiration in design and contemporary art.
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The Botanic Shelf provides an adaptable place for green plants
Riikka Kantinkoski and Pinja Rouger designed The Botanic Shelf to meet their own needs. They view this as the reason for the straightforward design process: the commissioner of the project is always present when you design for yourself.
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Mika Tolvanen: “The Visu chair taught me the importance and difficulty of keeping it simple”
Mika Tolvanen, who designed the Visu chair collection for Muuto, aims to create objects that are playful but not boisterous. We interviewed this award-winning Finnish designer about the birth and future of the Visu collection.
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Elina Ulvio – a playful functionalist
Elina Ulvio is a Helsinki-based designer whose pieces of furniture are geometric, inventive and playful. They also reflect her years in architecture.
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Happy tenth birthday, Oiva!
Marimekko’s popular Oiva tableware collection turns 10 this year. We interviewed designers Sami Ruotsalainen and Maija Louekari, who told us how the Oiva dishes and the new Eläköön elämä anniversary pattern were devised.
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Anderssen & Voll: “Great design requires occasional friction”
Muuto’s Outline and Rest sofa series bring new perspectives to the modern Scandinavian sofa. Here, we speak to their designers, Oslo-based duo Anderssen & Voll, whose pieces occasionally originate from divergence.
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Iittala’s Raami tableware is designed for good moments
Jasper Morrison likes to design objects that create a good atmosphere. That was also his goal with Iittala’s brand-new Raami tableware collection.
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TAF Studio – the award-winning design duo behind Artek’s Atelier chair
The Atelier chair was designed for the newly renovated Nationalmuseum in Stockholm. We chatted with designers Mattias Ståhlbom and Gabriella Gustafson – better known as TAF Studio – about Atelier and their work with Artek.
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The center of creative work, Sofia Future Farm, invites you to enjoy yourself
The inviting interior design of Sofia Future Farm was created purely with the furnishing, as the buildings are strictly protected. The &Tradition chairs, supplied by Finnish Design Shop’s Contract Sales, combine the different spaces with each other.
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Cecilie Manz, what makes a design classic?
Separat is an elegant space divider with a wooden frame and leather joints. Danish designer Cecilie Manz had carried the idea with her for a decade, and the collaboration with the Finnish manufacturer Nikari turned out to be a perfect match.
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Rolf and Mette Hay: “We want to make products that people truly care about”
Mette and Rolf Hay, the creators of the Danish brand Hay, have conquered the design world in a decade. It has not been easy, but the entrepreneur couple is driven by passion. They want to develop products that people grow fond of.
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Design Interviews on Design Stories
These stories bring you into conversation with the designers, architects, and makers behind the objects we love. We explore their creative processes, inspirations, and the thinking that shapes their work – from early sketches to finished pieces that stand the test of time.
In the Interviews category, you’ll find in-depth conversations with both legendary figures and emerging voices in the world of design. We’ve spoken with designers such as Alberto Alessi, Ronan Bouroullec, Rolf Hay, Ritva Puotila, and Inga Sempé, whose ideas and work continue to influence the way we think about beautiful, functional objects. Their products can be explored and purchased through Finnish Design Shop.
Design Stories is the online magazine of Finnish Design Shop, created to inspire and delight design lovers everywhere. We hope you enjoy exploring with us! Have a story tip or thoughts on our content? We’d love to hear from you.
