Series | Reiko's Room ♡ Finland: Where Old and New Intersect in Enchantment

Episode 15: The Contrast of Nordic Design and Verdant Spring

Greetings, Reiko here. I hear Japan is experiencing dangerously high temperatures! New York's lower humidity makes for a more comfortable summer than in Japan. Please take care, everyone! Following up on our last installment, I'll introduce you to Finland, a place that is as visually refreshing as it is cool.

Text by Reico

Modern Architecture Integrated into Daily Life

Hawkhill, introduced last timewas a city rich in nature, surrounded by greenery and lakes, but the capital, Helsinki, offered a different kind of charm. Despite being a capital, the city is abundant with greenery, exuding a relaxed atmosphere, and it's remarkably clean. The high level of safety also gave me the impression that it would be a pleasant place to live.

What captivated me were the modern architectural gems scattered throughout Helsinki. Not just museums, but libraries and even churches boasted modern and unique designs. These structures, which seemed to break conventional norms, were fascinating to behold. Their simplicity and unique designs, devoid of ostentatious decoration, seemed to reflect the national character of this country.

Helsinki is lush with greenery, and trams traverse the city center. The cityscape is a curious blend of European and Russian architectural styles. The addition of modern architecture makes it even more intriguing!

Finland is famous for its Nordic design products and furniture, characterized by simple, minimalist aesthetics. In Helsinki, this modern architecture seamlessly integrates with daily life, complementing these design sensibilities. Unique architectural museums, such as the Helsinki Museum of Modern Art 'Kiasma' and the newly opened 'Amos Rex' museum, are found everywhere. While the museums are as expected, I was surprised by the strikingly modern designs of the churches and libraries!

The Amos Rex museum in central Helsinki opened last summer. Its distinctive exterior houses exhibition spaces underground.

Just a stone's throw from Amos Rex museum is the Kamppi Chapel of Silence.

Its unique wooden form doesn't immediately suggest a church, but its minimalist design is striking.

This is the Temppeliaukio Church, known as the 'Rock Church.' Its design, a fusion of stone and glass, is truly unusual. I've never seen a church quite like it, but it was magnificent.

A Public Space for Sharing Experiences in a Free Environment

Among these, the Helsinki Central Library 'Oodi,' which opened at the end of last year, particularly caught my attention. It's a library with an open, light-filled space where people freely gather on the stairs and in lounge areas to exchange ideas.

From game rooms, recording studios, workspaces, and lab-like areas to quiet reading nooks.

It's a space that redefines the concept of a library, offering a free environment. Beyond reading, it's a place for exchanging opinions and sharing experiences, truly embodying the 'sharing' ethos relevant to our times.

Its undulating facade is captivating, and its unique appearance made a significant impact even from a distance.

The second-floor workspace features ample stair space where people can freely sit, chat, or work on their laptops, resembling a co-working space.

The hotel where I stayed also featured modern design with interiors inspired by Finnish nature. The 'Lapland Hotel,' as its name suggests, is themed around Lapland in northern Finland. In contrast to Helsinki's modern image, it evokes a sense of coexistence with arctic wildlife.

The rooms and lobby feature objects resembling moose antlers and carpets made of fur, adding a primitive touch. This creates an enjoyable contrast with the modern design.

Speaking of Finland, its charming designs like Moomin and Marimekko are sure to delight women. In that sense, Finland might just be the perfect place for a shopping and relaxation trip with a loved one ♡

LAPLAND HOTEL
www.laplandhotels.com/EN

Visit Finland
www.visitfinland.com/ja/

Finnair
www.finnair.com/jp/jp/

Reiko
An editor, writer, and coordinator based in New York (also planning a new venture). While deeply in love with Champagne and travel, she often finds herself dreaming of the ideal man, now approaching her forties. Her ideal partner? A gentleman who practices 'lady first' ♥︎