The resulting collection made of up-cycled components features a modernist inspired dolls house, a convenient wagon to move toys and other things around, quirky plush toys in the form of fish and sea creatures, a minimalist sledge to enjoy the snowy Lapland winter, a hanging ladder to reach for the stars, mesmerising marble mazes, a tiny theatre for a spontaneous play with your best friends, and a handy clothes rack to help tidy up your children’s room after a busy day – to name just a few.
During our journey in Finland, students were able to visit multiple manufacturers, craftsmen, designers and cultural landmarks such as: Fiskars scissors factory, Artek main wooded furniture factory, Iittala glassblowing plant, up and coming Vaarnii founder, and several historical buildings from famous architect and designer Alvar Aalto, including his house and studio, to name only a few.
In partnership with the iconic finish design brand Artek and the Fiskars Village Art & Design Biennale, the students discovered the bountiful nature that inspires and nurtures Finnish industry and craftsmanship, one of the pillars of contemporary Scandinavian design.
This project was made possible with the kind support of the Summer University programme of the Board of Higher Education (DGES) – State of Vaud.