This summer, art and design share the space at Finnish Design Shop’s showroom & shop
Art and design, what a perfect match! This summer, Finnish Design Shop’s showroom & shop showcases Juhani Melender's art alongside design treasures like this Karuselli lounge chair by Artek.
FINNISH DESIGN SHOP'S Showroom & shop has become a beloved destination for design lovers – a carefully curated space where timeless design and inspiring atmosphere go hand in hand. This summer, the design treasures are joined by something new: a curated selection of abstract paintings by artist Juhani Melender.
Melender was known for his remarkable eye for composition and colors. The sofa is from GUBI, paired with the Atollo 237 table lamp by Oluce. The tube cushion is Johanna Gullichsen’s Tilkku, and the white cushion is the Dot by HAY.
A selection of Melender's works has been curated for display at Aviatie. And did you know? Just like our design treasures, these artworks are also available for purchase.
Juhani Melender was a prolific artist whose catalogue includes over a thousand documented works, and the true number is likely much higher! Although Melender discovered his passion for form and colour early on, it wasn’t until a serious illness in the 1990s that he fully turned to art. Recovery opened up space for creativity, and stepping away from a hectic professional life gave him the time to slow down and fully immerse himself in drawing and painting. Art became both a refuge and a source of renewal – something he later credited with adding not just meaning to his days, but years to his life.
This summer, Finnish Design Shop’s showroom & shop presents a curated selection of Melender’s most vibrant works. Showroom manager Maija Rasila collaborated with the artist’s daughters, Anne and Suvi, to bring together a collection that lets Melender’s bold colours and quiet precision speak alongside carefully chosen design. Step inside and experience how art and design can inhabit the same space!
Art is an effortless way to add depth and character to home décor. The softly rounded Rond bowl is by Audo Copenhagen, and the iconic PH 3½–2½ table lamp is designed by Poul Henningsen for Louis Poulsen.
Hi Maija – the exhibition looks absolutely stunning! What inspired the idea of showcasing rotating artists in the showroom & shop?
“Last summer, we hosted an exhibition by artist Marjatta Holma, and thanks to the warm reception it received, we wanted to continue with the same concept this year. Art beautifully complements our design pieces, adding depth and interest to the overall atmosphere, much like it does in a thoughtfully styled home.
We also wanted to create a platform for presenting the work of interesting contemporary artists, while offering an easy way to discover and acquire curated art for your own space. Just like last year, all the pieces on display are also available for purchase!”
The vivid colors in Melender’s works find their perfect match in the small details of the interior. The wall shelf is by Montana Furniture, and the stools are the iconic four-legged stool E60, designed by Alvar Aalto.
How did Juhani Melender’s work come to be part of this summer’s exhibition?
“Melender’s work has long been admired, yet it’s only been shown in exhibitions on rare occasions. That's why I’m truly excited that we now have the opportunity to share these striking pieces with our visitors. Melender's inspiring combinations of shades and patterns pair beautifully with modern Scandinavian design. There’s a quiet vibrancy to his work: the colours feel current no matter the year, and always seem to find their match in the small details of an interior, bringing warmth and energy even to the most minimalist Nordic spaces.”
“Melender's inspiring combinations of shades and patterns pair beautifully with modern Scandinavian design.”
How have visitors responded to the exhibition? Have any favourites stood out?
“The feedback has been incredibly positive! We’ve welcomed guests from near and far, and also received a number of inquiries online. What’s been lovely to see is how individual the favourites are – some are drawn to the bold, larger-scale pieces, while others are captivated by the smaller, more delicate works. There truly is something for every eye.
The exhibition is open through August, after which sold works will be handed over to their new owners. Until then, the collection is here to be enjoyed all summer long!”
Timeless classics sit effortlessly side by side. Juhani Melender’s harmoniously artwork is paired with Aalto tea trolley. The iconic Snoopy table lamp by Flos adds a playful touch.
How does the summer season come to life at the showroom & shop this year?
“In addition to the art exhibition, we opened a summer café at Aviatie, serving both sweet and savoury treats during regular showroom hours. Our weekday lunch service continues as usual from 11 am to 2 pm, and on select summer weekends, we’re delighted to host guest chefs as part of our Summer Table concept – each offering their own unique take on seasonal dining.
We’ve also refreshed our showroom & shop with a hand-picked selection of seasonal favorites, from stylish summer pieces to statement classics that work year-round. For the latest updates on events, product highlights, and special offers, our Instagram is the place to follow – we’d love to have you join us!”
Finnish Design Shop’s showroom & shop
The showroom is open on weekdays from 11 am to 6 pm and on Saturdays from 11 am to 3 pm. Address: Aviatie 2, 20360 Turku, Finland. You’re very welcome to drop by our showroom if you’re visiting Finland this summer!
See also:
• Read also: Experience summer at Finnish Design Shop’s showroom with all your senses >
• Finnish Design Shop's Showroom & shop >
Text: Susa Pääkkönen Images: Suvi Kesäläinen
Published on 4 Jun, 2025
