Our curated edit of all the unmissable stores to visit for everything from unique vintage gems to design classics
Although Helsinki is a relatively small city, it still boasts everything you need, whether that’s lush parks to roam in, museums to satiate your cultural cravings, good restaurants and cafés, off-the-beaten-track cocktail joints, and of course, elevated shopping experiences. Like the rest of the Nordic capitals, Helsinki is a great destination for interior design and homeware browsing, with stores filled to the brim with everything from design icons to rare vintage treasures. Whether your taste is vibrant maximalist or pared-back minimalist, the Finnish capital has got you covered.
Below, Vogue Scandinavia guides you through the best interior design shops to visit:
Zarro
Zarro's store. Photo: Jere Viinikainen
Located in the heart of the city, Zarro is the perfect place to find design classics and timeless pieces, with the store’s curated selection including both international and Scandinavian favourites such as Gubi, Hay, &Tradition and Flos. At Zarro, you can shop everything from furniture and lighting to home scents – all on-trend and of top quality. And if you want to feel inspired by the latest design and see Zarro’s pieces in action, book an appointment to visit their showroom, nestled in the city centre.
Fredrikinkatu 37, 00120 Helsinki
Fasaani
A true vintage and antique treasure trove, Fasaani is the ultimate spot for uncovering unique pre-loved finds of different styles and eras. Situated in Ullanlinna, an area in southern Helsinki known for its striking art nouveau buildings and waterfront promenades, Fasaani appears unassuming from the exterior, but inside tells a different story. Housed in a cellar space of almost 1,000 square metres, you will find an expansive collection of one-of-a-kind, vintage and antique decor pieces ranging from furniture and glassware to ceramics.
Korkeavuorenkatu 5, 00140 Helsinki
Skanno
Skanno's showroom. Photo: Pauliina Salonen
With a special focus on the finest Italian and French design, Skanno, in central Helsinki’s design district, is a must-visit for those yearning to include a little bit of luxury in their space. Carrying pieces from over 40 renowned brands, including Minotti, Ligne Roset, and B&B Italia, chances are that you will be hard pushed to secure the same design gems anywhere else in Finland. Plus, there’s no appointment needed to visit the store’s showroom, so drop in and get inspired.
Erottajankatu 2, 00120 Helsinki
Artek
This legendary Finnish furniture company founded by much-loved designers Alvar and Aino Aalto, has its flagship store in the centrally-located neighbourhood of Kluuvi. Spread across two floors, the shop boasts classics such as the stool 60, the floor lamp A 805, the chair 611 and Aalto vases, along with items from other acclaimed Finnish and international designers. As for their international roster, marvel at the works of Swiss design house Vitra, Swedish String Furniture and French Serge Mouille, along with lots more.
Keskuskatu 1 B, 00100 Helsinki
My o My
If you’re looking for something a little more quirky and unusual, My o My has you covered. From colour-bursting glassware and funky candles to unique handcrafted ceramics, this spot, nestled in central Helsinki, has everything you need to spice up your space. Including brands known for their playful statement items such as Tekla, Polspotten, Octaevo and Anna von Lipa, My o My’s selection includes both more affordable choices and investment pieces you will cherish for years.
Mannerheimintie 18 Forum, 00100 Helsinki
Fargo
Another unmissable spot for vintage interior design gems is Fargo. Tucked away in the neighbourhood of Kruununhaka, one of Helsinki’s most peaceful and architecturally beautiful areas, the store mainly focuses on furniture and lighting from the ’50s and the ’60s. Here, you can get your hands on a rare Artek piece and browse the works of other famed designers from bygone times, such as Carin Bryggman, Gastone Rinaldi and Ilmari Tapiovaara.
Meritullinkatu 11, 00170 Helsinki
Klaus Haapaniemi & Co.
Finnish artisanal design and lifestyle brand Klaus Haapaniemi & Co. has delighted us with its vibrant and whimsical prints for over a decade now. The label’s luxe home collection draws from the same utopian universe as its clothing line, with Finnish folklore, mystical nature and the worlds of art, ballet and music at its core. In their Helsinki flagship store, housed in the upscale shopping centre Kämp Galleria, you will find statement pieces such as printed cushions, woven blankets and handmade rugs that will add that special touch and personality to your interiors.
Pohjoisesplanadi 33, 00100 Helsinki