Priding herself on being able to retain a child-like sense of naïveté, textile designer Erja Hirvi creates playful printed patterns for modern design giant, Marimekko. Initially a student of weaving, by the suggestion of her teacher she applied to the University of Art and Design in Helsinki. Her design process comes from absorbing the world around her and always remaining open. “The idea for a pattern can come from almost anything. If you keep your eyes open and slip into “designer mode”, you can see ideas everywhere.” Hirvi’s Kissanminttu, Kumina, Lumimarja and Hedelmapeli print all have a bright spirit and involve an element of nature which is intrinsically Finnish.

Finnish design has a long history and is know for simplicity, functionality, and craftsmanship. It's trademark designs emerged in the early 20th century, and gained international attention through pioneers like Alvar Aalto in architecture and furniture, as well as companies such as Iittala, Artek, and Marimekko. Their work emphasized clean lines, natural materials, and a harmonious balance between beauty and practicality. Everything must have a purpose. Iconic products like the Aalto vase, Artek’s Stool 60, and Marimekko’s bold textile patterns established Finland as a leader in modernist design. Over the next century, Finnish design became synonymous with high quality, technical skill, and timeless aesthetics—qualities that have earned it global recognition, particularly during the postwar years when Nordic design was celebrated worldwide, and still is. Today, Finnish products continue to enjoy international respect, not only for their aesthetic value but also for their reputation of reliability, thoughtful construction, and cultural authenticity.