NORDIC QUARTERS
ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN STORIES FROM FINLAND, THE NORDICS AND THE BALTICS
TOUCH EXPLORES OUR HUMAN NEED TO EXPERIENCE, TOUCH AND FEEL THINGS.
NORDIC QUARTERS
ABOUT NORDIC QUARTERS
Nordic Quarters is a new digital publication launched by Habitare Pro, Finland’s largest design trade fair. Published digitally in English, it features the most important architecture and design stories from Finland, the Nordics and the Baltics through people, products and spaces, whilst also offering current design highlights from around the world. Our publication is subscribed by and targeted to the professional architecture and design industry each quarter, with over 35,000 readers.
By combining a seasoned editor with a rich and active background in design journalism, covering global design stories, and a passionate creative who lives and breathes design and events, a publication was born that covers the best the Nordic region has to offer.
Each quarterly issue will be compiled into a single publication just before the Habitare design fair opens each September. The first issue of the year is released following the announcement of the new Habitare theme in December.
Finland and the Nordics are a hub of architecture and design inspiration, and our Nordic Quarters publication is an expression of the best that the region has to offer to a wider audience. Our aim is simple: to be the source of the most interesting, relevant and up to date design publication coming out of the Nordics.
Photography by Fanni Laukkanen
NORDIC QUARTERS
COVER Photography by Aleksi Tikkala, courtesy of Habitare
6 NORDIC QUARTERS TEAM
The people behind the stories, ideas and designs that make each issue happen
8 FROM THE TEAM
A note on the people, products and places that brought together the latest issue
PRODUCTS
10 NEW NORDIC
Swedish design brand Blå Station isn't afraid to challenge the status quo
12 GLASS ACT
Lintex turns up the volume with seven bold new magnetic glass finishes
14 MODULAR DEBUT
USM and Buchanan Studio have teamed up for their debut collection Tessellate
18 MODERN LEGACY
Artek unveils a limited-edition collection inspired by Tove Jansson's whimsical art
20 ZENSEFUL ACOUSTICS
A new collection by Baux offers sound solutions that look as good as they perform
22 CIRCULAR COMFORT
Fredericia's Gomo armchair by Hugo Passos combines sustainability with sleek design
26 MODULAR MOTION
Swedish brand Mizetto launches Cargo, a modular sofa inspired by industrial logistics
PEOPLE
30 A DAY IN THE LIFE OF
Tej Chauhan on emotive design, his cutting-edge work and making people feel good
34 PRO VISION
From emerging talent to futurefacing themes, Hanna Laikola shares her vision for this year's event
38 NEW NORMAL
An extract of Petra Ilonen’s book New Normal Design Finland showcasing the work of Mustafa Alshihani
42 HELSINKI PLAYGROUND
Adam Tickle on community, play and how he's giving back to the city
PLACES
46 HOOK ME UP
Founded by Ebba Lindgren and Pia Högman, Malmö coworking space Streck is made for collaboration
52 SAUNA SPIRITS
Finnish studio Puisto creates a cocktail bar and sauna in the steamy heart of Helsinki
58 PLAY TOGETHER
Amos Rex joins forces with Yinka Ilori for an exhibition celebrating joy and connection
JESSICA-CHRISTIN HAMETNER
Writer, editor and consultant
Jessica-Christin is a writer, editor and consultant specialising in design and architecture. Drawing on nearly a decade of experience in publishing, Jessica-Christin steers the editorial direction of publications and brands, bringing a global perspective and a keen visual sensibility. Over the years, Jessica-Christin has written for various titles, including Wallpaper*, The Modern House and FRAME. She was also a guest speaker at the École cantonale d’art de Lausanne (ECAL) (2024, 2025) and on the jury for Global Creative Graduate Showcase (2024, 2025) by Arts Thread and WGSN + Coloro.
HANNA LAIKOLA
Designer and creative brand manager, Habitare Po
Hanna Laikola is the Creative Brand Manager of Habitare Pro, the trade division of the design fair Habitare. By combining her skills, she seeks to engage and inspire broad audiences, create excitement, and new commercial opportunities with the aid of design. She has a strong professional background in furniture and product design, especially in the use of cardboard. As a natural extension of her creativity and strong business acumen, she steers the B2B platform for design professionals. Hanna’s Finnish-British heritage means she can draw on her insights in the international design spectrum.
EDITORIAL
HEAD OF CONTENT
Jessica-Christin
Hametner
CREATIVE BRAND MANAGER
Hanna Laikola
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Mia Kilpeläinen
MARKETING
MARKETING SPECIALIST
Christa Vuorinen
MARKETING SPECIALIST
Matti Salo
MARKETING SPECIALIST
Saija Vanhanen
ADVERTISING
SALES MANAGER
Ida Grönman ida.gronman@ messukeskus.com
SALES MANAGER
Outi Forsblom outi.forsblom@ messukeskus.com
MANAGEMENT
BUSINESS LEAD
Tanja Pasila
Floor for life
Timberwise is the world’s finest in wood — from plank flooring and design parquet to statement walls and furniture crafted from off-cuts. Crafted in Loimaa, Finland, from the highest-quality raw materials, every piece embodies trusted Finnish craftsmanship, timeless style, and proven safety.
Define your next design project with Timberwise. Tailoring available for truly distinctive visions. Explore now at timberwise.fi/en
FROM THE TEAM
We are delighted to introduce you to the very first collated issue of Nordic Quarters, a new publication by Habitare Pro, the team behind Finland’s largest design trade fair.
Showcasing the most exciting design and architecture stories from Finland, the Nordics and the Baltics, Nordic Quarters is a celebration of the region’s most compelling creative voices. Through in-depth features on people, products and spacesalongside a broader perspective on global highlights - we aim to deliver a publication that reflects the creativity, innovation and forward-thinking spirit that defines this part of the world.
In this inaugural issue, we journey from Finland to Norway, Denmark and beyond, shining a light on everything from the trailblazing creatives shaking up Helsinki’s design scene to the latest advances in circular design emerging from Denmark.
Finland and the Nordic countries have long been at the forefront of design thinking. With Nordic Quarters, our goal is to share that inspiration with a wider audience. We invite you to explore its pages and discover the very best the region has to offer. Follow us on @habitarefair
Photography by Sameli Rantanen
NEW NORDIC
As Habitare returns from 10-14 September, the Nordic Quarters team has selected the standout design brands not to miss
Nordic design has long balanced form and function. But today's furniture company's are adding boldness, personality and circular thinking to the mix. From rising names to future-minded materials, this year's standouts show what’s next in Nordic and contract design. Whether rethinking the office and how we interact with each other or reshaping public spaces, these names are setting a new agenda for contemporary design. Here's our pick of the ones not to miss.
Swedish furniture brand Blå Station has long forged its own path.
Favouring curious, concept-driven design over the expected, the Åhus-based company was founded on the belief that the world doesn’t need more of the same.
From adaptable, modular systems like ABLE to its latest launch P.Y.R - a chair designed by Swedish design studio David Ericsson and crafted entirely from pine plywood - Blå Station isn’t afraid to challenge conventions.
With pieces that strike the perfect balance between playfulness, function and a respect for materiality, the brand pushes the boundaries of contract furniture with innovative materials and sustainable practices.
For anyone seeking fresh perspectives on Nordic design, Blå Station’s latest collections promise to inspire and provoke new ideas for the workplace and beyond. blastation.com
Photography courtesy of Blå Station
GLASS ACT
Lintex is bringing bold colour and playful energy to the office with seven new magnetic glass finishes inspired by surf culture
Its latest launch sees the introduction of seven new magnetic glass colours, developed in collaboration with Stockholm-based design studio Halleroed. Channelling the optimism of retro surf culture alongside bolder fashion references of the 70s and 80s, the palette is vivid, expressive and anything but neutral.
Based in Nybro, Lintex has spent the last four decades reimagining functional workplace staples - think whiteboards, screens and acoustic panels - as confident, joyfully offbeat pieces.
Too often overlooked, these everyday tools are transformed through clean lines, tactile materials and a distinctly Scandinavian sensibility that proves even the most familiar surfaces can be rethought in exciting new ways.
optiwhite tempered glass. The material is engineered to be free from iron, eliminating the green tint typically found in traditional glass. This results in an almost colourless surface, allowing these glass whiteboards to deliver a remarkable purity of colour.
From rich cobalt like Daring 370 and mustard to earthy clay and forest green such as Fearless 570 or Free 580, these whiteboards add a playful twist to brainstorming, sharing ideas and managing projects.
Available across Lintex's full range of magnetic glass whiteboards, mobile and wall mounted, including both the glossy Mood-Glass and matte SilkGlass, the surfaces are made from
By injecting a sense of personality and play into the workplace, Lintex is helping to shift the feel of our shared spaces, making them more vibrant, human and undeniably more fun. lintex.com
A MODULAR DEBUT
USM joins forces with Buchanan Studio to launch Tessellate, an eleven-piece collection featuring bold checkerboard colours
USM, the Swiss family-owned business, and award-winning London Buchanan Studio have unveiled its debut collection, fashioned from the precision-engineered USM Haller system and featuring Buchanan Studio’s signature colour palette in a checkerboard design.
Titled Tessellate, the collection features Buchanan’s signature checkerboard palette applied across a striking series of eleven new designs. Exploring themes of repetition, symmetry and adaptability, it reimagines the iconic modular system through a contemporary lens.
'We turn to USM time and time again in Buchanan Studio projects – like all great timeless designs, we love how versatile it is in any interior,' explains Angus Buchanan, creative director of Buchanan Studio.
'Using the USM Haller system as a foundation for us to explore Buchanan Studio’s signature motifs, colours and materials is a defining moment for us,' adds Buchanan of what inspired the new range.
'WE TURN TO USM TIME AND TIME AGAIN IN BUCHANAN STUDIO PROJECTS'
The Tessellate collection comprises, among others, seating, tables, stools and a bookcase, which come in a playful design and colourways, a hallmark of Buchanan Studio’s brand.
Available in a bold USM Ruby Red and a classic Pure White & Graphite Black, the sculptural pieces also come in a special edition colour, BS Pink, created especially for the collection.
The designs fit into various interior design styles, from hospitality to commercial settings, as the stool and bench, for example, feature seat cushions available in Buchanan Studio’s Teddy, Studio Stripe and Ticking Rose fabrics.
'Partnering with Buchanan Studio on the Tessellate collection is a testament to USM’s continued commitment to innovation and design excellence,' adds Mirko Mueller, CEO of USM UK.
'THIS IS A PERFECT FUSION OF BUCHANAN'S BOLD AESTHETIC WITH OUR MODULAR SYSTEM'
'This collaboration is a perfect fusion of Buchanan’s bold, distinctive aesthetic with our modular, precision-engineered system,' explains Mueller. 'We are delighted to bring this dynamic collection to life and offer our customers a new way to experience the timeless versatility of USM.'
The collection is available exclusively through Buchanan Studio’s online shop, as well as by appointment at Buchanan Studio’s West London showroom. An edit of the collection is also available to purchase directly from USM.
Photography by Alessandro Tear
MODERN LEGACY
In celebration of Artek's 90th anniversary, this limited-edition collection brings Tove Jansson’s whimsical drawings to life with a playful, modern twist
Finnish illustrator and writer Tove Jansson, whose beloved Moomin characters continue to inspire joy and wonder around the world, is celebrated in Artek’s 90th anniversary collection with a playful new furniture range. Drawing inspiration from Jansson’s boundless creativity and adventurous spirit, the limited-edition launch breathes new life into classic designs.
The Stool 60 Celebration and Cabinet 250 Celebration – affectionately known as the cocktail cabinet – are reimagined with whimsical line drawings and handwritten notes from Jansson’s early notebooks and Moomin stories. The designs evoke the charm and spontaneity of forgotten doodles on the backs of school desks, adding a delightful and personal touch that mirrors Jansson’s humane vision and her curious approach to life.
Whether placed in a modern office or design-forward hospitality setting, this delightful collection promises to add an unexpected twist to interiors. Artek’s commitment to design and innovation shines through, ensuring these pieces are as durable as they are delightful for generations to come. artek.fi
Photography courtesy of Artek
ZENSEFUL ACOUSTICS
A new acoustic collection by Swedish design agency Baux blends design with sustainability
Jonas Pettersson and John Löfgren of Form Us With Love (FUWL) first planted the seeds of Swedish acoustics brand BAUX back in 2013, when the team relocated to a new, open-plan space in Stockholm. The studio suffered from poor acoustics, so FUWL got to work and created their now legendary Wood Wool acoustic panels, comprising a durable, recyclable material made from carbon-neutral wood wool, or shredded timber, cement and water.
Fast forward to 2025, and BAUX has unveiled its latest innovation. Named X-FELT, the firm’s newest collection of high-performance acoustics panels and tiles, is designed to resemble the serenity of karesansui, Japanese rock gardens, founded on Zen ideology. X-FELT, which the Swedish firm describes as an example of “zenseful acoustics”, draws inspiration from the balance, simplicity and harmony of these dry landscapes, where water surfaces and wave motions are expressed through gentle sand patterns called samon.
Made from ultra-fine polyester fibers, sourced from GRS-certified PET that eliminates the need for harmful fire-retardant treatments, the panels and tiles allow designers to mix and match patterns across walls and ceilings. Available in a versatile palette of solid and duotone colours, X-FELT is designed to promote feelings of calm and mindfulness in workspaces, hotel lobbies and
beyond by transforming interiors into sound-softening works of art. Lightweight yet large-format, X-FELT is as functional as it is visually striking. With over a decade of innovation behind them, BAUX continues to set the standard for planet-friendly, design-led acoustic solutions, where sound and style work in perfect harmony. baux.com
Photography courtesy of Baux
Presented earlier this year, X-FELT is a new collection of high-performance acoustic panels and tiles, finding its inspiration in Japanese Zen gardens
CIRCULAR COMFORT
The family-owned company has released the Gomo armchair, realised by Portuguese-born, Copenhagen-based designer Hugo Passos, and created with circular comfort in mind
Designed in collaboration with Hugo Passos, who creates everyday objects and furniture from his studio in Copenhagen, the Gomo armchair by Fredericia reimagines heritage craft with a modern twist.
Combining the comfort of residential furniture with contract-grade durability, the chair features a removable cover that extends its lifespan well beyond typical industry standards.
'OUR AMBITION HAS BEEN TO BRING TOGETHER CRAFT, CIRCULARITY AND INDUSTRIAL DESIGN'
The Gomo armchair embodies Fredericia’s Circular by Design ethos, which ensures new furniture is only introduced into the collection if it has been designed with its environmental impact in mind.
While many office chairs rely on bulky, rigid designs, the Gomo armchair offers a more compact and comfortable alternative.
Whether placed in a meeting room, lounge or coworking space, it adapts effortlessly to the demands of modern working life.
'With the Gomo Armchair, our ambition has been to bring together craft, circularity and industrial design,' says Rasmus Graversen, CEO and third-generation member of the family behind Fredericia.
'In terms of design thinking, Hugo has also managed to incorporate a dash of inviting informality into what can usually be a rather stiff, technical and serious typology,' he continues.
Graversen goes on to explain how the openarm design encourages freedom of movement, allowing both the sitter and the conversation to take centre stage.
Upholstered in a removable textile or leather cover secured with Velcro, the Gomo armchair is available with three base options: solid wood, steel tube, or a swivel base.
Its frame features a core of moulded recycled polypropylene, while the seat incorporates a plywood core, demonstrating Fredericia’s commitment to durability and working with sustainable materials.
'With the new Gomo Armchair, we have achieved versatility,' says Passos.' Plus, a truly efficient and responsible construction where all components have been engineered for easy disassembly, replacement, repair and, if needed, recycling. Take a seat and enjoy!'
Photography courtesy of Fredericia
MEET THE EXPERTS IN CONSTRUCTION, RENOVATION & LIGHTING
Real Estate Helsinki 8–10 October 2025
Smart solutions for the entire lifecycle of a property
The professional event for property maintenance and renovation, Kiinteistömessut 2025, offers top-class programs, the latest products and innovations in the industry, and networking opportunities with the best in the field.
For more information: kiinteistomessut.fi/en
Sähkö-Electricity 15–17 April 2026
The professional event for the electrical industry is finally coming to Helsinki!
Sähkö – Electricity 26 is a new Nordic professional event for the electrical industry, covering the entire sector from energy, lighting, construction, and automation to importers, manufacturers, and wholesalers.
For more information: sähkömessut.fi/en
FinnBuild
29 September–1 October 2026
International Construction and Building Technology Trade Fair
Now over fifty years old, FinnBuild will once again excite construction industry professionals and developers. The event, first held in 1974, has established itself as the most important event in the construction industry in Finland, based on the number of participating companies, visitors, and exhibition area.
For more information: finnbuild.fi/en
MODULAR MOTION
Swedish design brand Mizetto unveils
Cargo, a modular, space-saving sofa inspired by logistics packaging
'ITS MODULAR FORM BREAKS AWAY FROM TRADITIONAL SEATING'
Swedish design studio ADDI has created a modular sofa collection for Mizetto. Featuring three modular components in neutral and bold colourways, the collection finds its design inspiration in cargo packages.
The family-owned design brand, established in 2004, is headquartered in Kalmar and has since its launch collaborated with some of the industry’s most esteemed names, including Swedish architecture firm White Arkitekter and Italian design agency Studio NOOI.
Cargo follows on from Mizetto’s stackable Enfold armchair by designer Sami Kallio, which marked the brand’s first array into seating design, and its award-winning Lumber bench, which initially launched in 2023. the day.
'CARGO MODULAR SEATING WAS BORN FROM A FAILED SEATING CONCEPT'
Designed for flexibility, Cargo is comprised of modular components. Like a cube, each module can be twisted and turned to create endless possibilities and flexible seating options as and when needed. The cubes are fastened securely with a connector underneath, making assembly and disassembly simple.
'Cargo Modular Seating was born from a failed seating concept that proved too complex to produce without losing its aesthetic,' say Malin and Richard Muskala, the founders of Mizetto. 'In the middle of that frustration, a trip to the landfill sparked something – we saw an old sofa held together with tension straps. It had an unexpected rawness that felt honest and functional.'
'We looked at it and thought it was kind of cool and that this was something that could be used in a much more refined way,' the founders continue. 'Combined with our long-standing obsession with smart shipping solutions, the idea for Cargo took shape: industrial inspiration refined into a modular, shippable design.'
'CARGO IS DESIGNED FOR MOVEMENT –PHYSICALLY AND SOCIALLY'
The padding is injection-moulded in four parts to reduce tooling size and can be easily detached from the frame, which is made of plywood and chipboard, as it is unglued to the core.
Straps come in matching fabric or jacquard nylon, while a tray table can be integrated between the modules, offering a handy place for resting everyday items like a tablet, mobile phone, or a cup of coffee during informal meetings.
'Cargo is designed for movement – physically and socially,' say Malin and Richard. 'Its modular form breaks away from traditional seating, inviting users to sit, lean, rest, or connect in their own way. The modularity opens the possibility of placing the pieces in several configurations.'
mizetto.com
Photography courtesy of Mizetto
TEJ CHAUHAN ON EMOTIVE DESIGN
Celebrating 20 years of his studio and making people feel good
From watches for Rado to Nokia phones, Nordic Quarters caught up with the Helsinki-based industrial designer to explore the inspiration and processes behind his cutting-edge work
'IT’S ABOUT MAKING PEOPLE FEEL GOOD AND CREATING A CONNECTION'
Nordic Quarters: Your studio is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. Can you tell us about the journey that led you to start your practice?
Tej Chauhan: Before founding my studio, I was part of the Nokia design team and had the chance to work with brands like British Airways as a freelance designer. My background is quite varied, and I have worked across many sectors and developed products for different industries. It’s been an exciting journey, and launching my practice has allowed me to bring all those experiences together in a more personal way.
NQ: Your portfolio is incredibly diverse – you’ve worked with brands like Fiskars and Samsung and have designed some of Nokia’s most iconic phones, including the Nokia 7280. What t working on at the moment?
TC: We’re currently working on many projects in the Swiss watch industry, like our recent DiaStar launch by Swiss watchmaker Rado. We also have new projects in the works – headphones, baby monitors, sunglasses, and office chairs; it’s a real mixed bag. What excites me most is the variety because each project presses a different button for me, from the initial brief to the final execution.
NQ: What part of the design process do you enjoy the most or find particularly rewarding? Is it seeing a product used in real life, the reaction of a user or something else entirely?
TC: I love the initial brainstorming phase, especially when talking with a new or existing client because those ideas are often unfiltered and unhindered. For me, it’s all about making things stand out and creating a solution that is better than what’s already out there. And that’s an instinctual reaction because those gut instinct ideas somehow become part of a final solution more often than not. And of course, seeing the client’s reaction to the finished design – I love people reacting to my work but the best part is seeing the client’s reaction to that reaction.
'WHAT EXCITES ME MOST IS THE VARIETY BECAUSE EACH PROJECT PRESSES A DIFFERENT BUTTON FOR ME'
NQ: What’s a typical day like for you, or do you have any morning rituals that help you get into a creative space?
TC: When I still lived in London, I used to start my day by watching reruns of Frasier on Channel 4. It would always put me in a good mood. These days, I listen to podcasts on my way to the office. I don’t necessarily have a structured routine, but it’s something that helps get my mind in the right place for the day.
'TO CREATE SOMETHING THAT STOPS PEOPLE FOR JUST A SPLIT SECOND AND MAKES THEM TAKE NOTICE'
NQ: How has living in Helsinki influenced your approach to design?
TC: The pace of life here is slower, and there’s a lot more nature. Living in Helsinki has given me a lot of headspace and time to focus on the things I love. It’s been rejuvenating, especially after years of working in the hustle and bustle of London. I think it’s a refreshing environment to be creative in.
NQ: You talk about the importance of creating a moment of pause in your designs. Can you explain what you mean by this?
TC: There’s so much visual stimulation and noise out there – endless content and doomscrolling. My job is to create something that stops people for just a split second and makes them take notice. It all starts with how the object or design looks – it must grab attention. Then, when people interact with it, it has to feel amazing, surpassing their expectations. When you combine these elements, you create a connection with both the object and the brand behind it.
NQ: You often talk about the emotive nature of your designs. How do you incorporate emotions into the industrial design process?
TC: Emotive industrial design is all about creating a feeling. Every object or space can make us feel something, whether positive or negative. I believe that every design has the potential to evoke an emotional response, and my job is to try and control what that feeling is. It’s about creating moments of pause, and interaction and exceeding expectations with both the visual and tactile elements. I want broad audiences to enjoy what we do. It doesn’t matter to me if I am designing a soap dish, a television or a bicycle – the objective is always the same: it’s about making people feel good and creating a connection.
NQ: Looking ahead, are there any specific projects that you’re excited about exploring? Do you have a dream project?
TC: As a kid, I dreamed of being a transport designer. I moved into industrial design because I felt there was a broader scope of projects to be involved in. But what I haven’t done yet that I want to do and that we can bring some value to is a personal transport concept, like a passenger vehicle with two wheels or four wheels. I designed a personal public transport system for my thesis in 1995 at Central Saint Martins, based around electric scooters in big cities. Seeing similar ideas come to life today has reignited that passion. I am also really interested in exploring urban clothing concepts.
'EVERY OBJECT OR SPACE CAN MAKE US FEEL SOMETHING'
NQ: And finally, when you’re not working, are there any local spots in Helsinki where you find inspiration or like to unwind?
tejchauhan.com
@chauhanstudio
Photography by Juho Huttunen and Antti Angeria
TC: I am a fan of the restaurant and bar scene here. There’s a great Spanish place where the owner, Jaime, knows how to pour a perfect draught beer, and on Thursdays or Fridays, I’ll sometimes go there to unwind. There’s also a fantastic Italian place near the studio called Viinibaari Pinocchio. The eating and drinking scene in Helsinki has changed a lot over the years, and I love the international vibe it now has. You can definitely find me in one of these local spots!
PRO VISION
Meet Hanna Laikola, the driving force behind Habitare Pro's latest edition
As Habitare Pro returns, creative brand manager Hanna Laikola reveals how the fair, aimed at professionals working in architecture and design is evolving to meet the changing needs of the creative industries
Nordic Quarters: Nordic design is admired worldwide for its quality and ethos. How do you see Habitare Pro translating that creative identity into business opportunities for both established and emerging brands?
Hanna Laikola: Habitare Pro, in my view, is a platform that transforms design into business and business into opportunity. One of the strongest assets of Nordic design is its credibility. The world associates it with practicality, functionality and responsibility. At Habitare Pro our role is to turn those values into a platform where businesses can grow. For established brands, that means giving them visibility in front of international buyers, architects and specifiers who trust the Nordic design ethos and are actively seeking long-term partners.
For emerging studios and startups, Habitare Pro offers a springboard. This comes in the form of curated showcases, networking spaces and opportunities to position themselves in a global conversation much earlier than they could on their own. What makes the event unique is that it’s not only about showing products, but about creating meaningful connections between design culture and business.
NQ: Could you highlight any new formats like masterclasses, panel discussions or curated networking zones designed to support business development and professional engagement?
HL: We’ve expanded the programme to ensure that Habitare Pro isn’t just about the discovery of brands, but also about deep professional conversation. Alongside our curated exhibition, we’re introducing more structured formats led by industry experts, such as our new Focus Days. Our Architecture Focus Day, for example, is in collaboration with Archinfo who work to promote Finnish architecture globally. We’re also hosting
intimate workshop discussions that bring together voices from across the design and business spectrum. They’re small, intimate sessions, providing the perfect environment to ask experts questions in a more personal setting. This year, we’ve also introduced a new app called Events Pro, which makes it easy to schedule meetings with key contacts well before the event with a click of a button. The tool is particularly useful in the Nordics, where people can be more reserved about introductions and meeting new contacts. It’s a soft landing, which can then continue faceto-face in the Habitare Pro Lounge during the event.
NQ: How is the fair addressing the future of workspaces, especially in a Nordic context where design, wellbeing and functionality are closely connected?
HL: There’s a strong emphasis on wellbeing, functionality and human-centred environments and our fair reflects this through curated exhibits and programs that explore flexible workspaces, biophilic design, and tools that support both collaboration and individual focus. We’re also showcasing solutions that respond to hybrid working models, wellness-focused interiors, and sustainable materials. Beyond products, Habitare Pro encourages dialogue through panel discussions, workshops, and networking sessions, giving professionals a space to exchange ideas about the future of work and how thoughtful design can enhance both productivity and wellbeing.
NQ: How will you define the success of the 2025 edition?
HL: For me, the success of the 2025 edition will be measured by the opportunities it creates, the projects and collaborations it sparks and the connections it builds. In 2024, we welcomed over 45,500 visitors, and both the international reach and growth of Habitare Pro have increased significantly over the past three years. However, the true measure of success lies in exhibitor and professional satisfaction. We listened and reacted.
Photography courtesy of Habitare
NEW NORMAL DESIGN FINLAND
Mustafa Alshihani connects people through design – New Normal Design Finland offers an insider’s view into the field
The creative designer brings to the book a personal view of design in Finnish society, seen from the inside of the industry. Below, we offer a glimpse inside the pages of New Normal Design Finland, focusing on one of the featured designers, Mustafa Alshihani, who is on a mission to connect people in Finland and beyond.
The works of 14 designers feature in Petra Ilonen’s book New Normal Design Finland. The book compiles 207 pages and features expertly composed photographs and graphic design by Turku creative Eeva Sivula and Helsinki-based Dog Design Oy.
In the book, creative designer Ilonen sheds light on the history and development of the design industries, highlighting the various issues designers are currently working on: from population and loneliness to the digitalisation of a caring society to biodiversity loss and more.
'I asked 14 designers how they tackle these fundamental challenges in their work,' explains Ilonen. 'What kind of future do they want to build? That future won’t spring by itself, but everyone can influence it somehow.'
'I AM THINKING ABOUT THE SOCIAL IMPACT OF MY PRODUCT'
'The actions of an individual designer may often seem small or superficial, but together, we can make an impact on society,' adds Ilonen. 'To what is around us, how things look, how they feel and function, and are being produced. The designers are the solution makers,' adds Ilonen.
Among the featured designers is Mustafa Alshihani, who started his design mission in Finland during the Covid-19 pandemic with Tngl Cards. Founded in 2021,
Tngl Studios emerged from a need for genuine connection during a time of distance.
The aim was to create meaningful interactions across all walks of life. Since its founding, the studio has sold over 25,000 Tngl Card Games in Finland and inspired people to explore new perspectives. From team-building to relationship insights, Tngl Cards encourages connection.
'As a service designer, I am thinking most about the social impact of my product. The content, the message, and what this does to people, are more important than the object itself,' explains Alshihani.
Demonstrating that the language of design is often universal, Ilonen describes how Alshihani supplemented his occupation as an interior architect with service design as he integrated into work and life in Finland.
She goes on to explain how service designers combine knowledge of leadership, sociology, and psychology with design thinking, as Ilonen says in New Normal Design Finland.
'I wish to create safe spaces where we feel connected,' says Alshihani in Ilonen’s book. 'Where there is no judgement. We need to understand that we are humans and related to each other in one way or another.'
'With my design work in Finland, I want to open up possibilities for people to realise that we are the same despite our appearances,' he continues. 'Our hopes and goals in life, as well as our working skills, are similar no matter where we are from.'
New Normal Design Finland by Petra Ilonen is published in English. The book is for sale in online bookstores and Tngl Studio. New Normal Design Finland is supported by the Finnish Cultural Foundation
Photography courtesy of Petra Ilonen and Tngl Cards
HELSINKI PLAYGROUND
When work didn't open the usual doors, Adam Tickle rethought belonging - and built a creative community that gives back to the city he now calls home
After arriving in Helsinki with both experience and a global network, Adam Tickle found that the usual paths to creative connection led nowhere. Driven by a personal search for purpose, he set out to build something for others as much as for himself. We sit down with Tickle to hear how that decision has become Helsinki Playground, a creative community and platform for shared ideas and meaningful exchange.
Nordic Quarters: What inspired you to create Helsinki Playground?
Adam Tickle: I think it's a lovely story, from where it began to where it is today. It started from a place of integration and acceptance, rather than with the intention of 'starting a brand'. I've always loved Helsinki and when I moved here, I felt a strong desire to contribute to the city in some way. Whenever I arrived in a new city, I always found my footing through work - I'd get a job, meet people and build community. In Helsinki, I had a decent portfolio and brand experience, but I struggled to find work and felt stuck. At some point, I realised I was expecting Helsinki to give me everything –a career, friendships, a sense of creative belonging. But the city didn't owe me anything. So I thought, instead of trying to take from Helsinki, what if I started giving to this place I already loved?
'I FELT A STRONG DESIRE TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE CITY IN SOME WAY'
NQ: What inspired you to start your Instagram account and how did your personal interests shape its direction?
AT: I set up an Instagram account a few years ago at a time when moodboarding was quite a thing on the platform. Having grown up with Tumblr and the early days of online mood boards, I noticed a resurgence in this style over the past five years. I decided to focus mine on Finnish design and craft, which I am passionate about and always exploring through vintage finds and flea markets. Alongside the visuals, I started writing about what these pieces meant to me,
offering an outsider's perspective on Finnish design. What happened was that all these people and brands I was trying to reach started following the account. Suddenly, I was connected with them and we could start having a dialogue!
NQ: You've previously said the community created Helsinki Playground. Can you tell us why?
AT: I like to think it's been co-created. I have a background in branding and design, though I've never considered myself very good at it. I am better at finding people and bringing them together to make something. I see
myself more in the space of creative direction. One thing I have learned from past jobs is that success comes if other people start talking about you. Ultimately, I'd love for Helsinki Playground to grow into a movement.
NQ: You bring a fresh lens to design. How did you approach collaboration with brands while staying true to your ethos?
AT: There are many forms of collaboration, but for me, it comes down to two main routes. I am really keen on supporting the next generation of talent. I am interested in the hyper-local and grassroots – people with real talent who simply need a platform or a helping hand to elevate
their work. If you go back to the beginning of my story, I was that person. The other side is working with bigger players to then help amplify the mission and bring Helsinki to the world. I just want people to be inspired and excited about something.
NQ: How would you describe the Helsinki Playground community and what makes it unique in your opinion?
AT: They tend to be creative, international individuals. I’d like to think Helsinki Playground offers a safe and welcoming space - both for locals and for those finding their feet in the city.
'HELSINKI PLAYGROUND IS A HAPPY PLACE'
NQ: Can you share a recent moment at Helsinki Playground that made you feel particularly proud or connected to your vision?
AT: People are now finding the confidence to come to our events on their own, whereas before it was mostly my friends and their extended circles. Helsinki Playground is a happy place and that's how it should be. After all, playgrounds are meant to be happy places!
helsinkiplayground.com
@helsinki.playground
Photography by Henri Vogt, Shinichi Miura and Tomboy Photo Studio
HOOK ME UP
Set up by Malmö-based designers
Ebba Lindgren and Pia Högman, Streck is designed for collaboration and features a mix of bespoke and contemporary furniture to give the office a lived-in feel
Designers Ebba Lindgren and Pia Högman have joined forces to establish a new freelance co-working space called Streck in the heart of Malmö. Located on Wickenbergsgatan 5 in the city’s Ribersborg neighbourhood, Streck was created to foster collaboration among its members.
'WE PAINTED TWO WALLS AND BUILT A TABLE USING SCRAP MATERIAL'
The interiors feature bold pops of colour and an eclectic mix of furniture, some of which are a custom creation for the space, while others belong to the designers themselves.
'We changed a lot in the last year and I feel like it’s becoming a really nice workspace,' says Lindgren.
'We painted two walls, rearranged the interior many times and built a table using scrap material.'
Through exhibitions and design gatherings, such as its recent Hook Me Up exhibition during Southern Sweden Design Days, Streck brings together professionals across design, art and architecture.
Curated by Lindgren and Högman, the designers invited 30 Swedish designers – including the likes of Lisa Merk, Jenny Nordberg and Lindgren herself – to create a hook for hanging of their choice.
'The aim [of the exhibition] was to showcase many different materials and expressions,' notes Lindgren. 'There’s wax, brick, wood, metal [and more] – the hooks are all completely different.'
Hook Me Up also saw Streck encouraging visitors and members to use a physical notice board. Whether pinning personal ads or sharing contacts, the freelance office space demonstrates the value of social interaction.
Acting as a matchmaker for Malmö’s cultural and creative businesses, Streck provides a fertile ground for networking by bringing together a group of like-minded creatives shaping the city’s design scene.
Photography by Robert Våhlström
Create timeless spaces
Taiga workspaces are modular by nature — designed to form flexible, functional layouts that evolve with changing needs. Built with sustainable materials, they support calm, focused, and collaborative work.
taigaconcept.fi/spaces
SAUNA SPIRITS
Kyrö Sauna Bar combines a whisky-focused cocktail bar with a traditional Finnish sauna in the heart of Finland’s capital
Helsinki-based practice Studio Puisto has created a pop-up for Kyrö Distillery’s tipples in the heart of the Finnish capital, inviting visitors to experience its products in a contemporary, wooden structure that combines a whisky-focused cocktail bar with a traditional sauna and outdoor terrace.
The prefab building, which is located in the city centre, was created with the help of ProtosDemos, who embraced material reuse and modular design principles for both the assembly and disassembly of the pop-up, allowing the structure to be reused in other settings.
Inside the moody, minimalist space, there are three thematic areas. Upon entering, guests arrive in Kyrö’s Barns, a dimly lit, barn-like spot designed for private events and built from rough wooden planks. This area mirrors the intimate atmosphere of Ostrobothnia’s granaries, a region in western Finland where Kyrö Distillery was born in 2012.
'The flat plains of Ostrobothnia with their endless rye fields and traditional grain barns are a deeply familiar sight to every Finn,' explains Studio Puisto of why Ostrobothnian heritage is an important element of the design itself. 'We set out to recreate that feeling and atmosphere right in the heart of Helsinki.'
'THE FLAT PLAINS OF OSTROBOTHNIA ARE A DEEPLY FAMILIAR SIGHT TO EVERY FINN'
According to the architects, the use of raw materials and rough-textured wooden surfaces are meant to reference the feeling of being inside a traditional grain barn or a smoke sauna. 'Our aim was to create a rich, multi-sensory experience throughout the space,' Studio Puisto continues.
'For example, the wood chip floors in Kyrö’s barns offered a completely new kind of tactile element in a bar setting. As a byproduct of the extensive use of wood, the scent of freshly cut timber added yet another sensory layer to the experience.'
Recycled concrete blocks were used to build a bespoke bar in another area of the pop-up called Kyrö’s Yard, where guests can gather around a large bench made of planks to socialise or enjoy a drink.
'THE PROJECT ALSO OFFERS A RARE OPPORTUNITY TO EXPERIMENT WITH SPATIAL ELEMENTS AND MATERIALS'
'The goal of the massive bench is to create a communal atmosphere where even the most introverted Finn might strike up a conversation with a stranger,' notes architect Olli Keskinen.
The star of the pop-up is an 18 sq m communal sauna, which visitors reach by passing through a corridor called Barrel Warehouse. Here, Studio Puisto utilised old whisky
barrels from the distillery and repurposed them as standing tables.
Once inside the custom sauna, Studio Puisto incorporated low, narrow windows and continued the dark, rugged material palette found throughout the pop-up, including traditional wooden slate floors, to achieve a sense of privacy and a cocoon-like feeling.
Accommodating 14 bathers, with room for an additional dozen guests to cool off outside between sauna sessions, washing is done as Finns have for centuries by sauna-goers pouring water into a basin and using a ladle to wash themselves. At the end of the corridor, visitors can find the sauna’s changing rooms and restroom facilities.
'We were able to momentarily introduce a different facet of Finnish architectural cultural history through the temporary structure, placing it in dialogue with iconic buildings designed by Eliel Saarinen and Viljo Revell,' explains Studio Puisto of the value temporary architecture can hold.
'The project also offers a rare opportunity to experiment with spatial elements and materials that might be considered too bold or unconventional in a permanent structure.'
The Kyrö Sauna Bar pop-up is open until the end of 2025 on Wednesday through Saturday every week at Keskuskatu 6, Helsinki, Finland. For more information, visit kyrodistillery.fi
Photography by Unto Rautio
AIR THAT LETS YOU THINK.
YOUR BRAIN IS SHUTTING DOWN.
And nobody’s talking about it. Poor air quality—especially excess CO₂— silently drains focus, creativity, and decisionmaking. At Vetrospace, we’re on a mission to banish brain fog from the workplace.
pods with smart, patented CO₂-controlled ventilation and effective air filtration. Vetrospace pods keep brains sharp and energy high all day.
Hospitals, banks, manufacturers, and offices worldwide trust Vetrospace to deliver spaces where people can think clearly, stay productive, and feel well.
PLAY TOGETHER
Amos Rex and British artist and designer Yinka Ilori have teamed up to unveil a new exhibition that invites interaction, play and togetherness
British-Nigerian multidisciplinary artist Yinka Ilori has unveiled a colourful public art installation on the iconic mounds of Helsinki's Lasipalatsi Square in Helsinki just outside Amos Rex. Titled Transparent Happiness, the commission marks the launch of a new annual series, set to bring a range of artistic voices to the space in the years ahead.
'My intention in bringing this artwork to the iconic Lasipalatsi courtyard is for it to be an optimistic space for play and imagination, and reflective of my belief that public art should be accessible and joyful for all,' says Yinka Ilori in a statement.
'I am excited for local communities in and visitors to Helsinki to be immersed in the installation and I hope it encourages new connections.'
Located in the heart of the city, the installation features a playground, pedestrian and skateboarding trail, as well as a basketball court adorned with Ilori’s signature Ododo pattern (Yoruba for “flower”) and ping pong table. It invites visitors to engage with the public realm in new, playful and interactive ways.
Drawing on Nigerian parables and Ilori's own memories of the London playgrounds of his youth, Transparent Happiness bursts with colour and invites the public to connect through play and by sharing memories, stories and personal reflections.
'PUBLIC ART SHOULD BE ACCESSIBLE AND JOYFUL FOR ALL'
'Amos Rex’s mission is to work with its unique urban setting and invite artists from many disciplines to activate its public spaces,' adds the museum's director Kieran Long.
'We are truly honoured to host the first public realm project by Yinka in northern Europe and it has been inspiring to work with him as he reinterpreted the iconic Amos Rex mounds. Yinka’s work is joyful and beautiful, but it is also a question posed about what a public space could and should be. Which identities are welcome in the efficient, well-maintained Nordic public realm? Who is surreptitiously excluded?'
Curated by Itha O’Neill, the installation aims to encourage discussion around the value of public space and who gets to enjoy it.
On view through autumn 2025, Transparent Happiness is the latest work from Ilori's prolific practice, which includes installations and exhibitions at Haus der
'MY INTENTION IS FOR IT TO BE AN OPTIMISTIC SPACE'
Kulturen der Welt in Berlin, the Design Museum in London and the V&A Dundee, among others.
'I am thrilled to present my latest installation, Transparent Happiness, in partnership with Amos Rex, an institution which continues to celebrate culture and uplift artists, like myself,' says Ilori.
Known for his bold use of colour and pattern, the London-based artist and designer often draws from his Nigerian heritage. With works spanning architecture, sculpture, furniture and fashion, his practice is rooted in the belief that art and design should be optimistic, accessible and interactive - and Transparent Happiness is no exception.
Set against the whitewashed backdrop of the Modernist Glasspalace, the exhibit sits in striking contrast to the museum's minimalist M odernist architecture. Ilori looked to Finland's global reputation as the world's happiest country, a title its held for eight years running.
But beneath the statistics, he explores a more complex reality as happiness isn't always evenly felt. Ilori uses joy as a starting point to question whose happiness is truly represented in public life and who feels seen, safe and free to express it. Carrying a deeper message, Transparent Happiness highlights art's power to spark joy and nurture a sense of community.
'YINKA’S WORK IS JOYFUL AND BEAUTIFUL'
October 2025
Photography by Sara Angelica Spilling / Pudder Agency
Yinka Ilori: Transparent Happiness is on view at Amos Rex until 12
10.–14.9. 2025
HELSINKI EXPO AND CONVENTION CENTRE
THE LEADING FURNITURE, DESIGN AND INTERIOR EVENT IN THE NORDICS
Habitare, Finland’s leading and most established Nordic design fair welcomes the international design industry to Helsinki each September. HABITARE.FI
INTRODUCING THE SHOWROOMS
Explore
the city’s top curated showrooms and be inspired
Step into the heart of Helsinki’s design scene and explore the Habitare Showrooms. Discover the city’s most exciting spaces, where leading companies showcase their latest products and services to both industry professionals and design enthusiasts.
Details and opening hours for each showroom event can be found at habitare.fi
From 10–14 September 2025, during the Habitare fair, showrooms across Helsinki will open their doors, inviting visitors into a world of creativity and design. Together, the fair and the showrooms transform the city into a showcase for design, offering a unique opportunity to experience the work of creative professionals and the magnetic atmosphere of Helsinki as a design capital.
The connection between the Habitare fair and the city’s showrooms creates a rich and inspiring experience, as the main exhibition extends into the city and creativity spills out onto the streets of Helsinki.
TÖÖLÖ
Mechelininkatu
Pohjoinen Hesperiankatu
Eteläinen Hesperiankatu
PohjoinenRautatienkatu
EteläinenRautatienkatu
Postikuja Elielinaukio
Arkadiankatu
KAMPPI Lasipalatsinaukio
EerikinkatuKalevankatu
Lönnrotinkatu
Bulevardi
Uudenmaankatu IsoRoobertinkatu Merimiehenkatu
PursimiehenkatuSepänkatu
Aleksanterinkatu
Tarkk’ampujankatu Tehtaankatu
Jääkärinkatu
Tähtitorninkatu Vuorimiehenkatu
Tehtaankatu
Our top showroom picks!
Our team has handpicked a selection of must-visit showrooms that stand out for their creativity, innovation and commitment to design excellence:
BOLON
Bolon creates innovative, sustainable flooring solutions that combine design and functionality. Their products are crafted in Sweden with eco-conscious materials, and the showroom is a must-visit for anyone seeking stylish, durable floors that make a statement.
DURAT
Durat specialises in high-performance surface materials for interiors. Made from recycled components, the showroom showcases durable and versatile designs perfect for modern, sustainable spaces.
FASETTI
Fasetti produces modular and versatile furniture systems. The brand’s showroom demonstrates how flexible, locally crafted pieces can adapt to any interior, inspiring creative solutions for home or office.
FRAMERY
Framery offers soundproof office pods that enhance focus and productivity. Visiting the showroom lets visitors experience their sleek, ergonomic designs firsthand and see how they transform workspaces.
ISKU SPACES
Isku Spaces delivers functional and stylish workplace interiors. The showroom highlights how ergonomic and locally made furniture can create inspiring, comfortable environments for teams.
LINTEX
Lintex produces innovative surfaces for communication and organisation. Their showroom is ideal for exploring smart, eco-friendly solutions that combine design, functionality and creativity.
MANO HELSINKI
Mano Helsinki creates timeless furniture and interiors with a focus on craftsmanship. The company’s showroom is a showcase of locally produced, high-quality pieces that bring elegance and sustainability together.
NAAVA
Naava develops smart green walls that improve indoor air quality. Visiting the showroom lets visitors experience how nature and technology can combine beautifully to enhance wellbeing in any interior.
TIMBERWISE
Timberwise crafts high-quality wooden floors and interiors. Their showroom demonstrates the beauty of responsibly sourced timber and local craftsmanship, inspiring both residential and commercial design projects.
Other Destinations 31 Polestar test drives, Messukeskus
32 Kyrö Sauna Bar Nude Concept, Käenkuja 3a, 00500 Helsinki
Svensson
Tamsale
Temal Kylpyhuonekeskus
Train to Main Exhibition
All local trains go to Pasila, 5 min. Tram to Main Exhibition, Trams 2