Open Studios: Window to Helsinki’s Design Culture

Open Studios is one of the core programmes of Helsinki Design Week. Designers open their studios to the public for a glimpse of the creative processes behind the scenes and for better understanding of Helsinki as a design city. .. Studios Lillehammer and Nordkapp Two agencies create synergies in the very centre of Helsinki: Studio Lillehammer, an agency of two, specialises in interior design. Nordkapp, an agency of eight, specialises in digital communication and interactive design. Together the agencies can offer their clients new types of service by combining their skills. They share one studio space, gathering around one huge table. Physical distance never hampers communication and coming up with new ideas. On the evening of Helsinki Design Week’s Open Studios on September 10th, Lillehammer and Nordkapp were getting ready to receive other members of the Interaction Design Association, a close-knit group of minds. Lillehammer’s Johanna Paloviita reflected on the city at large as a scene for designers: “Helsinki is both small enough and large enough. There is the time and space for creative thought and processes.” .. Maritadesign Fashion designer Marita Huurinainen turned her Open Studio into a launch party for her new product, the Wave shoes. This is a collection of innovative wooden shoes.The Wave has already won a distinguished Finnish design prize, for merits of applying the traditions of Finnish design culture in a modern way. The Wave is both down to earth and totally novel, equally comfortable with everyday street wear and in festive occasions.Huurinainen offered her view on Helsinki as a design city: “Design comes to the level of everyman and everyday life here. It’s part of normal routines, not something that belongs to higher spheres.” .. Mottoform Elizabeth Salonen was born in Canada. She took a degree in industrial design in Detroit, which included a period of study at the University of Art and Design Helsinki. After graduation she worked on concept cars at Ford Motor Company.Salonen relocated to Helsinki in 2005 and founded Mottoform. Her clients include Finnish design houses and high-tech companies. Her recent work includes the “Helsinki Remade” collection, consisting of textiles inspired by the city’s Art Nouveau architecture.Taking a moment from her guests during her Open Studio, she compared the industrial design scenes of Finland and North America. Open Studios is one of the core programmes of Helsinki Design Week. Designers open their studios to the public for a glimpse of the creative processes behind the scenes and for better understanding of Helsinki as a design city. “I’m attracted to the Finnish design climate, the closeness to nature, and simplicity of form. Finnish companies recognize the importance of design and appreciate designers. North American companies often wonder if they need design at all. Also inspiring is the government support to design here.” .. Tiia Vanhatapio Fashion designer Tiia Vanhatapio did not stop working in and on her studio despite the open door. Her mannequin greeted visitors with a sign warning them of fresh paint.Vanhatapio found life running an independent studio a natural choice for her after graduation from the University of Art and Design Helsinki in 2005. Successful and awarded for her work, she sells her collections to premier fashion outlets both in Finland and abroad.With the insight from years of living and working abroad, she also offered a view on the Finnish design culture seasoned with an international perspective. “Everyone in Finland is very well aware of design. This awareness is built up from the home and elementary education onwards. Design plays a big role in Finnish history, and we are proud of our history and of our design.”