Habitare 2025 highlights the most important movements in interiors, design, and modern living. At the center of the event is a strong longing for authenticity and simplicity. Designers are returning to traditional materials, reviving forgotten skills, and at the same time introducing new biomaterials that reflect a slower, more thoughtful way of living.
What visitors can expect from Habitare 2025
This year’s novelties include Hakola’s Details collection and the last chair created by the legendary Yrjö Kukkapuro, named YK92. The Koskettaa/Touch theme exhibition will use marble slabs salvaged from the walls of Finlandia Hall, giving old materials a new life.
https://youtu.be/OeXhMd8VImsInternational names such as Swedish brand Fogia and Danish label New Works will join the event, both widely respected for their experimental approach and dedication to craftsmanship. More than 500 companies and 130 speakers will gather at Messukeskus Helsinki from 10 to 14 September 2025, making Habitare the largest interior and design fair in the Nordic region.
Designers embrace imperfection at Habitare 2025
According to Päivi Helander, creative advisor of Habitare, today’s design trends are shaped by the search for something imperfect and human. Traditional materials, new biomaterials, and the patient practice of craft skills all stand against the hurried pace of everyday life.
“Patina is now seen as something to celebrate. Traces of use are no longer problems but stories that add meaning to living spaces,” Helander explains. Designers’ works reflect either a clear yearning for simplicity and authenticity or the courage to do things in a personal way, without outside approval.
Helander hopes that the word “trend” will gradually disappear and be replaced by the idea of “own-ness” – the freedom to choose materials, objects, and spaces that feel truly personal.
Koskettaa/Touch exhibition brings imperfection into focus
The Koskettaa/Touch theme exhibition, designed by architecture studio Collaboratorio, shows how beauty can be found in imperfection. Its design features demolition marble from Finlandia Hall, natural wood, and unfired clay.
According to architects Martino De Rossi and Kristiina Kuusiluoma, the exhibition moves away from flawless surfaces and instead highlights the sensory power of raw materials. Visitors are encouraged to touch, embrace, and feel how imperfection itself can become beauty and meaning.
Interior designer Laura Seppänen brings the same theme to the Habitare Neighbors area, presenting everyday objects that carry human warmth. The Habitare Choice area, meanwhile, helps visitors make more responsible decisions by showcasing objects that carry meaning beyond their use. One highlight is Piilo, a smartphone case designed by Pentagon Design that reminds us we do not need constant connection to devices.
Products and collections revealed at Habitare 2025
Habitare will also introduce products that bring new depth to everyday life. Designer Saara Renvall’s urn collection is one example. Crafted in Finland from solid wood and eco-friendly materials, the urns feature bold colors and timeless forms. Free of gender or religious symbolism, they approach one of life’s final objects with dignity and warmth.
Hakola will launch its new Details collection, expanding into rugs and bags while keeping its playful and colorful identity. Finnish Design Shop will host a presentation of Danish brand HAY, known for its creative approach to color and form. Visitors will see new products as well as classic HAY favorites.
Marimekko will bring its Field of Flowers traveling exhibition to Finland for the first time, celebrating the brand’s famous floral patterns and strong use of color. Lapuan Kankurit will showcase its autumn collection developed in collaboration with illustrator and ceramic artist Armi Teva, with each item carefully woven in Lapua from pure natural fibers.
Another emotional highlight will be the presentation of the compact YK92 armchair by Yrjö Kukkapuro. Left unfinished when the designer passed away in February, the chair reflects his lifelong dedication to ergonomics. Manufactured by Summanen Oy, it combines comfort with accessibility, supporting users with weaker legs.
Habitare 2025 program and performances
Beyond design, Habitare 2025 will feature music at the Genelec Lounge. Performances include Sami Saari and Jazzpojat on Thursday, 11 September, Litku Klemetti on Friday, 12 September, and Jaakko Kulta on Saturday, 13 September.
With more than 500 companies and 130 speakers taking part, Habitare 2025 offers a complete look at the future of interiors, design, and living.
