Experience Understated Luxury: Joanna Laajisto's Stunning Finnish Design at Helsinki Airport Lounge

Finnish airline Finnair has unveiled new lounge areas at Helsinki Airport, envisioned by local designer Joanna Laajisto to combine Nordic style and comfort. Laajisto led the conversion of the airport's former congress centre to provide a more generous lounge offering for first- and business-class travellers flying within the border-free Schengen Area.

Her scheme showcases Finnish designers and brands from past and present alongside others across the Nordics, aiming to create a sense of understated luxury.

"Today's luxury is about functional and calming spaces where you can spend a moment surrounded by understated, elegant design," said Laajisto.

The lounge features a palette that combines soft shapes, warm tones, granite stone surfaces, and plenty of natural wood. The new ceilings, inspired by aeroplane cabins, improve acoustics while providing a greater sense of intimacy.

"We introduced softness through shapes and materials to create a friendly and welcoming atmosphere," added Laajisto.

The lounge is divided into three zones: an airy cafe serving food and drink, a casual living-room-style space filled with relaxed seating, plus a study and work area featuring soundproofed booths and bar seating.

Standout furniture pieces include Thomas Sandell's Goma bar chair, Louise Liljencrantz's Margas LC2 lounge chair, and the Biennale stool by Kari Virtanen. The design also includes a series of Artek's 1960s Karuselli chairs, which were reupholstered to look as good as new.

Laajisto emphasized the inclusion of lesser-known choices from Finnish design alongside the classics, creating a unique blend of styles.

Laajisto won the Finnair commission after topping a design competition held by the airline in 2023 and has previously worked on numerous high-profile projects in Finland.

Photography by Mikko Ryhänen