Harri Koskinen: The Architect of Modern Finnish Aesthetics
A Philosophy of Purpose and Longevity
Harri Koskinen (born 1970) has established himself as one of the most prominent figures in contemporary Finnish design.
Since the early stages of his career, he has been recognized for a bold, uncompromising aesthetic that seamlessly bridges the gap between traditional craftsmanship and modern innovation.
Design Philosophy: Rationality Meets Intuition Koskinen’s work is characterized by a “dualistic” process. He often describes his approach as a combination of a strict, rational mindset with a more free and intuitive perspective. For Koskinen, every object must have a clear purpose. His trademarks—practicality, a spare style, and a conceptual depth—ensure that his designs are not just aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional and enduring.
“At times, my work is based on dignity but also very much so concerned with courage,” says Koskinen, reflecting on his drive to create objects that challenge conventions while remaining user-friendly over time.
Career Milestones His international breakthrough came in 1996 with the Block Lamp, a design icon now part of MoMA’s permanent collection. In 2000, he founded his own design agency, Friends of Industry Ltd., specializing in product, concept, and exhibition design.
In 2009, he expanded his reach by launching his first namesake collection, Harri Koskinen Works. His leadership in the industry was further solidified when he served as the Design Director for Iittala (2012–2016), and he continues to shape the brand today as their Design Development Lead.
Collaborations and Recognition Beyond Iittala, Koskinen has collaborated with prestigious international brands such as Muuto, Artek, Genelec, Issey Miyake, and Zanat. His work is celebrated globally and is represented in major museums including the Röhsska Museum and the British Museum.
https://www.harrikoskinen.com
More design by Harri Koskinen:
The Zanat Ten product collection
The Zanat Ten product collection On the occasion of Zanat’s 10th anniversary, we invited our …
Celebrating an Icon – Block Lamp 30 Years design by Harri Koskinen
When we first met Harri Koskinen, he was still an unknown student, but he had …
Woodnotes K Chair in new “Sky” colorway by Harri Koskinen
“Colours of Water 2025” collection launched at Habitare 2025 Harri Koskinen’s iconic design classic from …
Harri Koskinen´s Magnitude exhibition @ Galerie Forsblom
Harri Koskinen: Magnitude Galerie Forsblom, August 22–September 21, 2025 Harri Koskinen one of Finland’s most …
A New Life for a Classic – The k Chair’s Removable Covers Are Easy to Install – Woodnotes
A New Life for a Classic – The k Chair’s Removable Covers Are Easy to …
Aarni X Alvar & Aino Aalto watch collection design by Harri Koskinen
Aarni X Alvar & Aino Aalto watch collection Alvar and Aino Aalto. A power couple …
The S 12 wall hook was created for Thonet by Finnish designer Harri Koskinen
The new S 12 wall hook A room’s overall appearance is determined by the sum …
K Chair 20 years Special Edition by Harri Koskinen @ Habitare
This autumn, we are celebrating the 20th anniversary of our beloved k chair, designed by …
Igman Lounge Chair +Ottoman design by Harri Koskinen for Zanat
With the design of Igman Lounge Chair, Harri Koskinen, successfully bridged Bosnian and Finish craftsmanship …
A new piece of furniture that lets you store and charge by Harri Koskinen – Henki Furniture
Room For Thoughts Charging Cabinet A designer charging cabinet to store and charge digital devices. …
Reflextion 1_3 is a table mirror from left over material by Harri Koskinen – Wooden Oy
Reflextion 1_3 is a table mirror made for Wooden. Wood is gathered from Wooden’s left …
Igman Mini Lounge design by Harri Koskinen for Zanat
Igman Mini Lounge Chair by Harri Koskinen is a final edition to the Igman family …
The mother of Woodnotes, textile artist & master colorist Ritva Puotila found a new timeless green for paper yarn – Woodnotes
Milan calling! At this year’s Salone Del Mobile in Milan, we will share a stand …
The birch plywood lamps Pilke are colored in a hue creating a beautiful walnut tone – Pilke
Pilke Signature Collection’s Pendant 60 and Pendant 28 are now coming in a new dark …
k Char with a star base by Harri Koskinen for Woodnotes
The k chair family is growing: the newcomer with a star base The first version …
Harri Koskinen
Harri Koskinen: The Architect of Modern Finnish Aesthetics A Philosophy of Purpose and Longevity Harri …
Chroma by Harri Koskinen for Memo Furniture
Chroma is an ensemble of Lounge Seating designed by Harri Koskinen, produced by Memo, a …
NUDE Dining Chair design by Harri Koskinen for Made by Choice
NUDE Dining Chair design by Harri Koskinen The Nude chair was originally tailored for one …
The White Chair design by Harri Koskinen for Billiani
The White chair is inspired by sixties Nordic design The White chair is inspired by …
Igman Chair design by Harri Koskinen for Zanat
“Modernism is about how we understand humanity and relate to nature.” Igman dining chair is …
The Swivel k Chair design by Harri Koskinen – Woodnotes
WOODNOTES COLLECTION 2015 ON SHOW IN STOCKHOLM k CHAIR WITH ARMRESTS The swivel k chair …
The Ilmari Tapiovaara collector coin designed by Harri Koskinen
Mint of Finland is planning to release silver 10- and 20-euro collector coins in honour …
Lento Lounge chair – received the 2012 GOOD DESIGN™ design by Harri Koskinen
The Lento Lounge easy chair has received the 2012 GOOD DESIGN™ Award and the Interior …
Nordic Design Today 2013 @ Vandalorum
Exhibition of the World’ s Largest Design Prize at Vandalarum VANDALORUM is honared to …
January Tables by Harri Koskinen for Nikari
The Nikari January Tables by Harri Koskinen exemplify Finnish design excellence. Originally evolved from a …
The Swivel K Chair design by Harri Koskinen for Woodnotes
A Harri Koskinen Interior Innovation Award winning design from 2004, the k chair is now …
Art Works design by Harri Koskinen for iittala
New concept from Iittala – ART WORKS by Harri Koskinen as the first artist In …
k chair design by Harri Koskinen – Woodnotes
THE SWIVEL K CHAIR A Harri Koskinen Interior Innovation Award winning design from 2004, the …
Lento Chair designed by Harri Koskinen for Artek
Lento designed by Harri Koskinen in 2006/2009, the lento chair is made of pressed birch …
Artek in the beginning of the next seventy years
Artek in 2006 is a combination of old and new Artek in Glossy Black This …
Ristikko Lamp design by Harri Koskinen for Pilke
Handmade birch pendant lamp Harri Koskinen’s Ristikko lamp collection for Pilke combines geometric minimalism with …
Artek launching new collection of rugs by six designers
Artek is launching a new collection of wool rugs created by six talented Finnish designers: …
MUU Chair design by Harri Koskinen for BBB
“Recognizing needs is a pre-condition for design.” The Muu chair, designed by Harri Koskinen for Montina and …
Källemo presented during the Furniture Fair 2000 – Hommage 1900 Källemo
HOMMAGE 1900 KÄLLEMO Looking in the rearview mirror, among the multitude of furniture through the …