Finnish design – practical functionality, linear beauty
Representing the national mindset in its practicality and functionality, Finnish design has its roots in the nation's rural culture, where everyday tools and equipment were made out of natural materials. From high-end glassware and cutlery to fabrics, gardening tools and lighting solutions, Finnish design has been described as linear and simplistic with a sense of timelessness to it. Basically, Finns make and enjoy things that work and look good.
Today, design is omnipresent in Finnish life. Marimekko curtains, Iittala coffee mugs and Arabia plates are basic items in every home, and Eero Aarnio and Alvar Aalto designed furniture are no rarities, either. Especially in bigger cities, urban solutions and architecture old and new all speak the same linear language.
Helsinki, with its Design District, Design Museum, Helsinki Design Week, The Aalto University School of Art and Design, as well as its hundreds of design-led businesses, is the hub of the creatives. Nonetheless, design is to be found all over the vast and sparsely populated country. Design House Idoli in Ivalo holds up the fort in Northern Lapland, and Rovaniemi Design Week celebrates industry developments in the Lappish capital. In Oulu, halfway on the country's north-south-axis, Lifestyle Kauppa (literally Lifestyle Shop) reminds the citizens of Finland's national inclination.
Helsinki's World Design Capital year 2012
Further south, DesignOnTampere is a collective formed by young designers to further develop design and urban culture in Tampere. On the west coast, Turku Design Now! brings together small companies specialized in different aspects of design, combining resources for greater visibility and creative advancements.
Helsinki's World Design Capital year 2012 will be a major event in global design, attracting design experts and novices alike to marvel at the city's unique atmosphere and design solutions manifested not only in the countless events of the year, but in the everyday lives of Helsinkians. The creative sector is re-shaping Helsinki's economy and enhancing the citizens' quality of life. Design seen from a broad perspective – in city planning, architecture, industrial design and service design – plays an integral role in the development of the capital and the country as a whole.
Helsinki's World Design Capital year 2012 will be a major event in global design, attracting design experts and novices alike to marvel at the city's unique atmosphere and design solutions manifested not only in the countless events of the year, but in the everyday lives of Helsinkians. The creative sector is re-shaping Helsinki's economy and enhancing the citizens' quality of life. Design seen from a broad perspective – in city planning, architecture, industrial design and service design – plays an integral role in the development of the capital and the country as a whole.
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