Designed in close collaboration between Fyra and the architect Otso Virtanen of ARK Helsinki, Villa Housu is tailored to cater to the needs of an active outdoor family without compromising on design integrity. From the outset the dialogue between architecture and interior architecture has been a driving force of the design. Inside, the atmosphere exudes warmth and relaxation with minimalistic design choices.

Emphasizing both functionality and visuality, every element is thoughtfully intertwined to enhance the overall user experience. Storage areas for sports equipment blend into the cohesive layout, maintaining a sense of harmony throughout the rest of the space. Every nook of the premises is thoughtfully utilized to facilitate a seamless transition from daytime activities to cozy evenings in the living room.

Finnish spruce dominates the entirety of the premises, with raw wood covering all surfaces except the bathrooms, where functionality necessitates harder materials. The extensive use of spruce not only emphasizes its essential benefits but also ensures a seamless integration with the surrounding environment. Custom-designed wooden furniture further enhances the villa’s unique character.

The building itself harmonizes with the arctic landscape, integrating the characteristics of traditional Finnish architecture into a contemporary setting. Despite being located within a new neighbourhood, strategically placed windows and openings offer glimpses of the natural scenery, fostering a sense of connection to the outdoors. The project’s ethos of soft minimalism coupled with functionality remains consistent throughout.

Located within a historic building in the Punavuori neighbourhood of Helsinki, the ambiance of the restaurant is crafted from materials characterized by patina and grit. Bespoke designs by Fyra, including fixed furniture and table lamps, add original and distinctive tones to the premises. Preserving the historical essence of the building, the original spatial arrangement and architecturally fitting materials resonate throughout the space.

The premises consists of a bar and a restaurant area, with an intriguing addition—a secret cabinet tucked away behind a hidden door fashioned as a turning bookshelf. The mix of materials and classic British racing green serve as symbolic representations of the restaurant’s concept.

A new entrance on the Telakkakatu side of the building was designed to integrate Robusto into the vibrant and creative neighbourhood. The culinary vision of the restaurateur duo Kari “Kape” Aihinen and Olli Kolu is rooted in classic gastronomy, presenting a menu that captures the essence of different seasons with straightforward and authentic flavours.

The expansive open kitchen serves as a stage for the culinary craft, complemented by a grand bar countertop situated by its side. The fusion of classical furniture and modern materials creates a distinctive atmosphere marked by interesting contrasts. Art takes centre stage within the premises, with the art collector Ari Tolppanen’s curated pieces paying homage to the building’s former exhibition use while composing a unique narrative that aligns with the establishment’s gritty yet classy aesthetic. The art collection was curated by Helsinki Contemporary’s Katja Räisänen.

The design boldly exposes and utilizes different factory-like features. The refined original floor, showcasing remnants of its industrial past, matches with the exposed technical ceiling and old stairs. The rough textures of these surfaces juxtapose with the carefully curated lighting, furniture, and art, creating an inviting and compelling dining experience together with the grand open kitchen.

The restaurant’s aesthetics create a laid-back and vibrant dining experience. The front section of the restaurant features a spacious but intimate bar, extending its welcoming atmosphere into the late-night hours. Throughout the space, sturdy pillars establish a strong rhythm, naturally dividing the restaurant into distinct sections and enhancing its functionality. The interior design seamlessly blends relaxed, natural surface materials with elegant, refined details.

The expansive open kitchen offers customers a view of the cooking process, bringing the culinary craft right into the dining hall. Mirrored walls generate intriguing reflections, adding depth to the setting. The fixed furniture creates cozy corners for customers to enjoy dinner and drinks on their own privacy, while the gracefully flowy bespoke ceiling light fixtures infuse the space with a unique charm. This multi-layered ensemble elevates the dining experience, offering a blend of classic and modern aesthetics.

With the tasteful and intricate details complemented by warm hues of red and gracefully aging materials, Gina’s design delivers a distinctive and memorable visual concept.