The iconic Taika pattern was designed by Klaus Haapaniemi and released in 2007, and it remains a fan-favorite among iittala's porcelain dinnerware collections. The Taika pattern captures the essence of Nordic mythology, as the Finland-native drew inspiration from Finnish folklore and nature motifs. The name "Taika" itself means "magic" in Finnish, and the pattern is known for its sense of wonder and imagination it brings within the viewer. The original pattern depicts an enchanted woodland forest full of fanciful creatures, such as foxes and owls. These illustrations pair with the smooth, simple shapes of designer Heikki Orvola’s porcelain pieces. Over the years, new interpretations and anniversary editions have been released by Haapaniemi for iittala. The 15th anniversary Taika collection, for example, features a majestic crane in a peat bog with floating water lilies that came about from a vivid childhood memory. The most recent release, called Taika Sato (Magic Harvest), continues the same type of whimsy from the original collection, instead with an imaginative garden of fruits and vegetables! Shop the full Taika dinnerware collection.

Designer Klaus Haapaniemi was born in 1970 in Helsinki, Finland. He graduated as a graphic designer from the Lahti Institute of Design in Finland, where he has had no shortage of success ever since. Haapaniemi has a rich partnership with Finnish brand iittala, contributing to one of their most popular porcelain dinnerware collections. He has also commissioned work for the likes of Marimekko, designing the playful and popular Jääkarhu (polar bear) pattern back in 2001. Additional collaborations include Diesel, Levis, Dolce & Gabbana, and more.

In 2010, Haapaniemi co-founded Klaus Haapaniemi & Co. with designer Mia Wallenius. As a creative studio based in London, the company focuses on creating high-quality, visually striking products that blend traditional Finnish elements with contemporary design. The studio’s portfolio includes textiles, ceramics, and home décor items, characterized by intricate patterns and whimsical storytelling. The products are focused on fine materials and hand-printed textiles, following ethical principles in all production stages, including fair and equal collaboration and responsible use of resources.

In addition to his own company, Haapaniemi has collaborated widely across fashion and design, as well as leading visuals for bespoke events, performances and operas. In 2015, Haapaniemi made his opera set design début by creating the visual world for the performances of the opera Cunning Little Vixen performed in Finnish National Opera January 2015. It was this work that inspired an additional porcelain dinnerware collection for iittala: Tanssi. Klaus has also had his work presented in internationally respected galleries and museums. The 2018 state prize for design was given to Klaus Haapaniemi by Finnish cultural minister and Arts promotion centre Finland.

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Pairing Haapaniemi’s intricate Taika pattern with iittala’s rich design heritage and craftsmanship has proved to be a successful partnership for both parties. Iittala has a dedicated history in dinnerware that reflects its commitment to high-quality, functional and timeless products. Established in 1881, iittala initially focused on glassworks but quickly expanded its offerings to include ceramics and other tableware. Kaj Franck, a pivotal figure in the launch of iittala’s dinnerware, designed the Teema tableware collection in 1964, which was celebrated for its minimalist design and versatility. Today, iittala’s porcelain dinnerware remains highly regarded for its enduring quality, innovative design, and the ability to blend traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics.

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Photos: iittala