Sharing Inspiration

The theme of Expo 2010, ‘Better City – Better Life’, provides an opportunity to introduce the highlights of Finnish expertise in the fields of built environment and product design to the Chinese audience.

The Finnish participation in the World Expo and pavilion Kirnu bear the slogan ‘Sharing Inspiration’. Finnish companies have developed proven, innovative solutions for sustainable development, environmental friendliness, energy efficiency and well-being. The World Expo in Shanghai gives the possibility to showcase these solutions to a wide audience in one of the world’s key emerging markets.

The design exhibit at Kirnu has been designed by the Helsinki-based Muotohiomo design agency. The display is a diverse snapshot of Finnish homes and the daily life: the tour begins in the front hall and its furnishings, and continues through the kitchen and living room into the sauna – of course! The displays include accessories designer Aki Choklat’s updated take on the traditional felt boots as well as Iittala’s timeless tableware; world-famous tools from Fiskars; as well as items designed by Finland’s best-known contemporary designers Eero Aarnio and Harri Koskinen.

Finnish pavilion also highlights health and well-being, know-how, education and technology, with Nokia phones, as will Kone lifts as examples of technological achievements. Particular focus has been placed on well-being, and the special needs of children and the elderly. Finnish companies are world leaders in many fields, including dental care. In the exhibition, Chinese visitors will familiarize themselves with Finnish landscape, culture and the way of life via a huge interactive screen.

The outstanding quality of Finnish design has also brought Helsinki the honor of being chosen as World Design Capital 2012. The year’s theme will be Open Helsinki – Embedding Design in Life. The message is clear: in Finland, design is for everybody!