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Habitare Trade Show: Finland’s Premier Design Event

Habitare is Finland’s premier furniture, design, and interior decoration event, held annually in Helsinki. Since its inception in 1970, it has grown to become the largest event of its kind in the Nordic countries, attracting both industry professionals and design enthusiasts from around the world.


Origins and Evolution

The inaugural Habitare fair took place on 17 April 1970 in Helsinki’s Exhibition Hall in the Töölö district, featuring nearly 300 exhibitors from various sectors, including notable Finnish brands like Marimekko and Stockmann. Over the decades, Habitare has evolved, reflecting the dynamic nature of design and interior decoration. It has expanded its scope to include contemporary designs, classic furniture, vintage pieces, and artworks, thereby attracting a diverse audience.


Event Structure and Highlights

Habitare offers a rich program that includes exhibitions, workshops, competitions, and showrooms. The event is divided into several thematic areas:

  • Habitare Choice: This area emphasizes responsibility and sustainability, showcasing companies and organizations committed to a more sustainable future.
  • Habitare Materials: An experiential material library where visitors can explore and experiment with various surface materials for their projects and homes.
  • Habitare Neighbours: Designed and curated by Ulla Koskinen and Anna Pirkola, this area presents innovative companies in the industry, reflecting contemporary living and diverse lifestyles.
  • Habitare Handmade: This section offers an overview of Finnish handicraft products and materials, inviting visitors to participate in DIY workshops and demonstrations by craftspeople.
  • The Block: An area dedicated to emerging designers, fresh product ideas, and manufacturers, fostering new talent in the design industry.
  • Habitare Pro: A platform for architects, design professionals, developers, buyers, and design enthusiasts to connect with leading brands in contract furniture, lighting, textiles, materials, and flooring.

Recent Developments

In 2024, Habitare was held from 11 to 15 September at the Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre. The event attracted 45,300 visitors and featured over 400 companies and players in the field. The theme for 2024, “Layers,” explored the layered nature of homes, spaces, and objects, highlighting the cyclical nature of design and the coexistence of old and new styles.

The 2024 edition also marked a significant collaboration between Habitare and Helsinki Design Week, aiming to strengthen the design industry and promote dialogue between designers and companies. This partnership provided a robust platform for encounters and interactions, enhancing the growth and internationalization of the industry.


Impact and Significance

Habitare serves as a vital platform for Finnish and international designers to showcase their work, launch new products, and engage with a broad audience. It reflects Finland’s rich design heritage and contributes to Helsinki’s reputation as a vibrant design city. The fair not only highlights contemporary trends but also fosters discussions on sustainability, responsibility, and the future of design.


Conclusion

From its modest beginnings in 1970, Habitare has grown into a cornerstone event in the Nordic design calendar. Its evolution mirrors the dynamic nature of the design industry, continually adapting to new trends and challenges. As it continues to innovate and inspire, Habitare remains a testament to the enduring appeal and significance of design in shaping our living environments.

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