A Creative Haven in Helsinki by Laura Seppänen

For their latest interior design project, Laura Seppänen Design Agency has created a serene home for Finnish music composer and producer Hank Solo. Located in the hip Kallio district in Helsinki, Finland, the small apartment has a wonderful feeling of spaciousness thanks to its three metre high ceilings. 

Simple yet homely, the kitchen has been modernised and made functional with beautiful pieces from HAY, Frama, Lampe Gras and Ellos.

Taking into account the artist's wish for a peaceful space to enjoy slow mornings and concentrate on his musical work, Laura came up with an idea of an "industrial and luxurious yet cosy New York-style hotel room". Peeling back layers to reveal beautiful wooden flooring and an original brick wall was a great starting point. Located in the living room corner, the brick provides contrast and a raw and edgy element alongside the white painted walls. The addition of warm wooden tones, patterned rugs and a mix of materials including brass, glass and leather provide further layers of textural goodness. 

One of the many things I love about Laura's work is her ability to mix both iconic Scandinavian and Finnish design with custom-made pieces and those sourced further abroad. Some of these include a hand sketched sideboard from Spanish brand Treku, the Workstead wall lamp from Brooklyn, NY, and a huge custom-made bronze glass mirror. A strong concrete dining table grounds the living space while abstract paintings created by Finnish artist Tanja Meski create a striking focal point. My favourite element however has to be the piano which features a unique 'paper planes' patterning in greyscale by Finnish graffiti artist Otto Maja.

The soft industrial theme continues in the bedroom with one wall featuring a concrete effect, decorated with beautiful artworks. This room includes two of my favourite lamps, the Floor lamp by Flos and Wall lamp by Frama. I also love how the wardrobe has been given a new lease of life with a simple birch veneer made by a local carpenter. 

Interior design by Laura Seppänen (@laurajuulia) / Photography by Pauliina Salonen
Styling Assistant - Minna Ritvanen

Warm and homely with space to breathe, I have no doubt this apartment will provide a tranquil and creative haven for its lucky owner.  

Images courtesy of Laura Seppänen Design Agency