Scan Magazine, Issue 111, April 2018 by Scan Client Publishing

APRIL 2018 ISSUE 111 PROMOTING BRAND SCANDINAVIA

TOVE STYRKE – SWEDEN’S NEXT POP PRINCESS OUR TOP SWEDISH FASHION PICKS A TRIBUTE TO ORGANIC PRODUCE FROM DENMARK FINNISH DESIGN AND CREATIVITY

Hello! My name is PĂĽl Ross. I design unique, exclusive homes, and I accept only ten new projects every year. This gives me and my team the necessary time required for each customer, which is essential when designing a unique villa, wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t you agree? The result of every new home is personal, just like the family who lives there! www.ross.se

s gs in ing w aw ra dr ed th the or for s! n f . o r i ion r. lut sk ew lut sk N g so .000 ng so 0.000 i cin 500 nc 50 an o in p t ina p to rf u r f h u fe th fe t of wi of wi n n ca ca ss oss

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Villa White. Design study in collaboration with Ossian Tove

2018 is already in full swing, and right now I’m available for new projects this spring. In the mean time, I’d love to listen to your thoughts and ideas. Visit us at www.ross.se and be inspired by a selection of our more than 300 charismatic residences. You’ll also discover many topics for conversation, our fantastic team, and your future architect. Pål Ross, CEO, Founder & Architect SAR/MSA

Contents COVER FEATURE

Tove Styrke – Sweden’s Modern-day Pop Princess She was only 16 when she first auditioned for Sweden’s Idol TV show. Nine years on, she is an established pop star at home and ready to take on the world. Scan Magazine spoke to Tove Styrke about fame, female role models, and finding her groove.

DESIGN 8

this happened, why it seems like a trend unlikely to die down, and what the rest of the world can learn.

Think ergonomic children’s furniture, delicious liquorice and beautiful paper products. Finland not only has a keen eye for design, but an aptitude in the environmental innovation field too. Read on to find out more.

Finland’s Top Creative Agencies 2018 Thanks to a proud design heritage and a strong economy, Finland boasts a buzzing creative communication scene. We spoke to the people behind some of the country’s best creative agencies to find out what the secret is.

Pros, Old and New Our extra-large design section this month explores everything from established Danish designers such as the Lassen brothers, to new Scandi favourites including Dailyroutine and Trätoffelfabriken. Whether it is your wardrobe or your kitchen that requires a spring clean, you will find something to spruce it up right here.

Made in Finland

Culture in Finland Finland is not just the land of 1,000 lakes, though the lakes certainly add to the beautiful scenery. We listed our favourite destinations and happenings to inspire a trip to Finland this year.

SPECIAL FEATURES 54

Local Brews, Global Experiences Discover the most exciting new brewery in Norway, alongside award-winning seaside dining in Denmark and experiences that truly expand your horizon.

BUSINESS 98

From GDPR to Sheep Our business section this month presents some inspiring innovators and entrepreneurs. Need help and advice on GDPR? Or how about a teambuilding activity featuring sheep?

SPECIAL THEMES 37

Top Swedish Fashion Brands 2018 Eco-certified leather boots, avant-garde menswear and ground-breaking watches – this and much more was explored for this Swedish fashion spotlight. Top up on Nordic cool for this spring and summer season!

40 87

Organic Food from Denmark Did you know that Danes are the keenest consumers of organic food in the world? We went to find out how

CULTURE 124 Nautical Culture and Kiddie Design Strandingsmuseum St George tells one of the most fascinating stories from Denmark’s seas, while Nordic children’s design says more than a thing or two about its cultural values and norms. Head straight for our culture section to find out what cultural adventures you should embark on this month.

Our opening hours Tuesday to Saturday from 17.00 Tegelbacken 2, 111 52 Stockholm info@tegelbacken.com +46-8-25 16 55 www.tegelbacken.com

Scan Magazine | Editor’s Note

Dear Reader, I hope you will agree that this issue of Scan Magazine is a truly inspiring one, full of passionate people with bold visions and tireless dedication. The editing process felt to me like a long series of epiphanies: moments of pride in my heritage and insights that made me exclaim: ‘This is why the Nordic region is so amazingly powerful!’ Scandinavia is known as a pioneer in environmental innovation, a design and fashion giant, and a leader in social and gender equality – and this issue really shows why. Time and time again, this past month, we were told that environmental policies were more like words describing already established and integral practices, rather than an afterthought or something shoe-horned into a business – because eco-awareness is as important to these brands as their profit, and indeed fuelling the same. Time and time again, we were blown away by the forward-thinking approaches to everything from product development to HR, and moved by the insistence on creating garments and design items that change the world for the better – for everyone – in addition to looking good. Our cover star, Tove Styrke, spoke passionately about a changing music industry where all-female bands are no longer hard to find and a still-reasonably-young pop princess is allowed to call the shots.

I will not make it to Denmark for this year’s Organic Day, but at the time of writing, I am excitedly awaiting my first-ever organic vegetable and fruit box – one said to feed a whole family, and a service we will enjoy on a weekly basis from now on. Because it may be difficult to live up to Nordic standards when living away from your Scandi home, and I may be far from perfect in my attempts to overcome said difficulty, but now more than ever I know that I must try. That is a promise from me to you, dear reader: in the name of Swedish fashion values, I will reward brands whose sustainability policies are more than just words; in line with Finland’s innovative design scene, I will remember that quality always trumps quantity, especially when produced locally; and in honour of the keenest nation of organic food consumers in the world, Denmark, I will stick to organic produce in as much as this island out west allows me to. I have said it before, and I will say it again: getting to continuously speak to passionate, creative and bold entrepreneurs and creatives and be inspired by their courage and persistence is by far the best part of my job. And luckily, you get to take part in it too.

Linnea Dunne, Editor

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Scan Magazine | Design | Street Style

Nordic Humans of London Scan Magazine’s brilliant Sanna Halmekoski has once again hit the streets of London to find out what the Scandinavian fashion fanatics are wearing. Cool, sleek, and full of statements, this is a little piece of Scandiland in the United Kingdom. Text and photos by Sanna Halmekoski | www.nordichumans.com

Nelli Savolainen Finnish barista @nellisavo

Nelli Savolainen

“My style is Scandinavian and minimalistic. I like ‘80s-style, vintage clothes. I like to buy good quality and often wear earthy colours. My jacket is from H&M, the watch is by Rosefield, and the skirt, shoes, and bag are by Zara.”

Nikolas Enqvist Finnish fashion business student at University of the Arts London “My style is quite Nordic, simple and classic. Jeans and T-shirts are staples of my outfits. I don’t wear anything too extravagant. My sunglasses are by Dior, the shoes, jeans, jumper and jacket are by Acne, and the bag and ring are by Marimekko.”

Nikolas Enqvist

Lilly Wood

Lilly Wood Swedish-Danish freelance photographer @lillywoodphoto “I prefer to wear clothes that are black, over-sized, and masculine. I layer outfits, yet like to keep it simple. I like to shop in second-hand shops in London, Paris, or Kiev. My scarf is by Ukrainian designer Anton Belinskiy, my shoes are by Buffalo Berlin, the jacket is second-hand from Stockholm, the shirt is Swedish thermal underwear and my trousers are secondhand from Kiev. 8 | Issue 111 | April 2018

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Scan Magazine | Design | Fashion Diary

Fashion Diary… Who is ready for some sunshine? After a seemingly never-ending winter with too much snow, we are so happy to be replacing our winter wardrobe with lighter spring fashion. Here are a few of our current Nordic favourites with a minimalist aesthetic – and a touch of floral to get you ready. By Ingrid Opstad | Press photos

These smart yet casual slacks with a slightly cropped length are great for springtime, designed with a dart detail on the knee and an elastic back part that gives them the perfect fit and feel. You can team them up with the light grey V-neck tee also from Filippa K for a contemporary and clean look. Filippa K ‘Noah’ pop cropped slacks, £160 Filippa K soft lycra v-neck tee, £42 www.filippa-k.com

A cap will bring a casual touch to your outfit while keeping the sun out of your eyes. This grey one is the ideal Scandinavian style accessory with its minimalist design and details. Jack & Jones statement cap, £18 www.jackjones.com

As soon as winter is over, it is time to get your denim jacket out – a timeless wardrobe staple. If you do not already own one, we suggest this boxy shape jacket made from sustainable denim by Weekday. It has effortlessly cool written all over it. Weekday single jacket, £55 www.weekday.com

Why not make some floral additions to your outfit this season? Unbutton it and wear a simple t-shirt underneath, or keep it closed for a more elegant vibe. This floral number from Tiger of Sweden has a subtle and modern yet playful expression. Tiger of Sweden ‘Farrell 4’ shirt, £149 www.tigerofsweden.com

10 | Issue 111 | April 2018

Scan Magazine | Design | Fashion Diary

With the eye-catching, oversized Martina sunglasses from Marimekko, you will be fully prepared for plenty of sunshine. These new glasses have purple horn coloured temples and purple lenses to give you a glamorous look. Marimekko ‘Martina’ sunglasses, £145 www.marimekko.com

This interesting take on a shirt has a timeless shape and relaxed cut. The caddie shirt from House of Dagmar is minimal from the front but has an unexpected cut-out and wrap detail at the back. Because of its knee length it can be worn as both a dress and a shirt with a pair of trousers underneath. A bright yellow bag, like this leather shopper, adds something extra to the outfit and is an essential bag for everyday use or for travelling in style. House of Dagmar caddie shirt, £195 House of Dagmar leather shopper bag, £360 www.houseofdagmar.com

This spring, we want to look Scandi-chic in this bomber jacket. It is great for both sunny and cloudy days, but also easy to layer up with during colder weather. The extra fabric layer on top with drawstring ties gives it an interesting and unique cut. Tiger of Sweden ‘Cici’ jacket, £349 www.tigerofsweden.com

Add a bit of sunshine to your wardrobe with this pair of bright and fun trousers. With a delicate and pretty daisy pattern and an elastic waistband saying “Love me, love me not…” these are perfect for both lazy spring and summer days. Holzweiler ‘Moja’ trousers, approx £162 www.holzweiler.no

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 11

Scan Magazine | Design | We Love This

We love this… It is so important to create a space for yourself every day to slow down and enjoy some ‘me time’ at home. We have selected a few ways to help you practise self-care and slow living the Scandinavian way. By Ingrid Opstad | Press photos

It is important to take care of your delicate hands, especially with the cold weather we have been having lately. The new collection of hand care products by SKANDINAVISK is designed to nourish and protect exposed skin from harsh climates, something Scandinavians know a lot about. Available in the scents Fjord, Lempi, Øy and Ro. SKANDINAVISK ‘Fjord’ bar soap, £9 SKANDINAVISK ‘Fjord’ hand cream, £18 SKANDINAVISK ‘Fjord’ hand wash, £18 SKANDINAVISK ‘Fjord’ hand lotion, £20 www.skandinavisk.com

What better way to slow down than with a nice cuppa? This beautiful mug was inspired by the iconic and timeless design of the classic Lyngby vase, boasting an elegant handle – ideal for a good cup of coffee, tea or hot chocolate while you practise some self-care. Make your favourite hot drink, sip it slowly and de-stress. Lyngby set of 2 mugs, £27 www.lyngby.com

Create a lovely and relaxing atmosphere in your home with the soothing sound from this small Bluetooth speaker from Danish brand Vifa. The ultra-compact, pebble-like design is just as intriguing as the rough Icelandic nature that inspired this speaker. With a Nordic simplicity in both look and use, this is the perfect way to bring sound with you everywhere. The smart leather strap allows you to carry it with you or hang it wherever you want. Vifa ‘Reykjavik’ speaker, £179 www.vifa.dk/shop

Even though spring is here, the evenings can still get chilly. We love curling up under a soft and comfortable quilt and so have our eyes on this beautiful Verso blanket decorated with a delicate plant pattern. It is created by Masaru Suzuki, best known for his designs for both Finnish brand Lapuan Kankurit and Marimekko, often inspired by nature. Lapuan Kankurit ‘Verso’ blanket, £80.60 www.finnishdesignshop.com

While you are wrapped up in the blanket with your cuppa, we recommend slowing down and reading up on contemporary Nordic living. The Real Nordic Living book written by Dorothea Gundtoft celebrates contemporary Scandinavian style in all its forms. This is an inspirational read for all those interested in interiors, food, travel, culture and anyone who dreams of and aspires to live that real Nordic way. Thames & Hudson Real Nordic Living book by Dorothea Gundtoft, £25 www.thamesandhudson.com

12 | Issue 111 | April 2018

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Møbelsnedkeri Kjeldtoft

Left: Designed by Isabel Ahms and crafted by Kjedltoft, the Off Sofa has just been put into production with four sofas delivered to the renowned Blox Hub in Copenhagen. Right: The flexible Repetition bench will be presented at Copenhagen’s 3daysofdesign event in May. Below: The new table for Vejle Council was created to accommodate specific needs in a confined space.

Shaping ideas For 25 years, cabinetmaker Gert Kjeldtoft has used his skills and knowhow to turn ambitious and eye-catching design ideas into functional furniture. By Signe Hansen | Photos: Møbelsnedkeri Kjeldtoft

Fascinated with design since he was a child, Kjeldtoft has spent much of his life giving physical form to design ideas. However, even after 25 years in his profession, the cabinetmaker has never found himself short of new challenges. “We continue to seek out new ways to raise the bar. At the moment, we are working on some very special designs for show furniture for the Mindcraft exhibition in Milan,” says Kjeldtoft. “The designs are created by architects and artists, and they are pretty wild. Doing something like that is super thrilling, even after 25 years.” Among other recent creations from Kjeldtoft’s workshop is the flexible Repetition bench, which will be presented at Copenhagen’s 3daysofdesign event in May. The bench can be arranged in a range of shapes and adjusted in length by taking off some of the wooden rings that compose its body. “The idea of the

rounds off: “Our main ambition is to keep developing new types of furniture that are also a kind of art – the art of moving from a previously untested idea to a functional new design.”

designer of the bench, Henrik Sørig Thomsen, was originally to make a bench that was adjustable in length, but the flexible element, which I really think makes the bench stand out, was added when we pitched in with the unusual idea of using this rubber thing, usually used in engines, to connect the joints,” explains Kjeldtoft. The artistic and innovative quality of the Repetition bench is at the heart of all of Kjeldtoft’s projects, but it is always combined with functionality and practicality. This is especially evident when Kjeldtoft works on site-specific projects, such as the new council table for Vejle municipality. “Whether what we do is more art or more functional design varies from project to project. Once in a while we do prototypes of new design ideas, but we also make a lot of everyday items, which need to be functional,” says Kjeldtoft, and

Facts: Møbelsnedkeri Kjeldtoft is located in Aarhus. The workshop also works with private commissions, creating unique furniture for individual homes. Møbelsnedkeri Kjeldtoft will be at the 3daysofdesign event in Copenhagen 24-25 May 2018.

Web: www.kjeldtoft.com

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 13

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | by Lassen

by Lassen’s Kubus series is undisputedly one of Denmark’s most successful new old designs.

Continuing the legacy of two of Denmark’s greatest architects Natural experts in aesthetics and functionality, the Lassen brothers continue to fascinate new generations with their designs and ideas long after their death. With the designs of the two architects, by Lassen has created some of Denmark’s most iconic new old designs. By Signe Hansen | Photos: by Lassen

Ever since the Lassen brothers were children, they seemed born to become architects. While other boys would play with toy cars, the brothers spent their time surveying and sketching buildings. But though the final goal of becoming architects was always crystal clear, the brothers’ path was not without obstacles. Mogens Lassen had dyslexia, and money was tight; thus both brothers would find themselves taking alternate routes to architecture, rather than through the Royal Danish Academy. Still, their design and simple aesthetic and functionality 14 | Issue 111 | April 2018

brought them to the top of the world of architecture. “Our design DNA is firmly rooted in the Lassen brothers’ legacy; it’s a huge and challenging but extremely interesting legacy to have to carry on. Our mantra is that everything we do should be done the way Mogens or Flemming Lassen would have done it,” says Søren Lassen, the grandson of Mogens Lassen and by Lassen’s owner. “This approach has, for instance, resulted in our newly released Lassen chair, which is heavily inspired by

a sketch by Flemming Lassen from 1940, but finished by new young designers.” This approach is also reflected in by Lassen’s new Kubus Vase Lolo. Released in connection with the brand’s tenth anniversary this year, the vase was designed by Søren Lassen in line with the characteristic design of the Kubus series by Mogens Lassen.

Developing the legacy Designed by Mogens Lassen in 1962, the characteristic, square Kubus candleholder was originally only produced in small numbers for the architect’s close friends and family. However, in the ‘80s, the candleholder was put back into production by Søren Lassen, and today it is one of the most iconic modern Danish design successes. The candleholder perfectly

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | by Lassen

illustrates the two architects’ philosophy that less is more. But even though the design looks very simple and stringent, there is a great deal of consideration and mathematics behind the symmetry and balance of the design. This is also eloquently reflected in the new symmetrical and sculptural Kubus vase, which combines a slim, powdercoated steel profile with an organic characteristic vase element. “No doubt, the Kubus candleholder has been by far our most iconic product, and that’s a journey we will continue to explore,” says Lassen. “But while developing and continuing an already successful collection might sound easy, it is in reality one of the hardest tricks of the trade – because if you don’t do it right, you might end up with something that’s almost offensive. It’s a delicate balance; when you develop a well-known, iconic design, you have to be faithful to the original design DNA.”

In a different universe Through the wealth of sketches and designs by the Lassen brothers, the by

Lassen universe is continuously expanding, and so is its popularity. This is despite the fact that many of the products released were designed more than half a decade ago. “It’s interesting to see how the designs we release, produced dot by dot from the old sketches, are still super timely. The designs have this distinctive timeless quality about them, which means that they can live for generations,” explains Lassen. by Lassen’s designs are today sold all over northern Europe as well as in parts of the US and Asia. However, most products are still produced in Denmark, using industrial production methods as well as Danish handicraft traditions. This way, renewal and tradition go hand in hand and will continue to do so, says Lassen. “We will continue this exciting journey through the Lassen brothers’ universe, both through in-house designs based on the design DNA of the Lassen brothers and certainly through the original sketches from our archives. It’s evident that the designs of Mogens and Flemming are still in high demand.”

Facts: - by Lassen was founded by Søren Lassen and Nadia Lassen (Søren Lassen’s niece) in 2008. - Today, the company is owned and run by Søren Lassen. - Architect Mogens Lassen (19011987) is among the greatest and most influential of Danish architects, a pioneer of Danish Functionalism and internationally renowned for his characteristic architecture and geometric shapes. - Architect Flemming Lassen (19021984) was a Modernist and part of the movement that brought Functionalism to Denmark. Flemming Lassen is particularly well-known for his work with Arne Jacobsen on the award-winning House of the Future and Søllerød Town Hall. - by Lassen’s showroom is located in Søtorvet 5 in central Copenhagen.

Web: www.bylassen.com

The Lassen Chair combines Flemming Lassen’s love of organic, wavy, unconventional silhouettes, with Mogens Lassen’s sense of stringent contours.

The clean expression of the Conekt table and the Kubus candleholder reflect architect Mogens Lassen’s love of minimalism and clean lines.

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 15

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Sophie by Sophie

Photo: Josefine Lundhall

Photo: Cornelia Wahlberg

A jewellery brand with a difference In addition to making splendid bracelets, earrings and necklaces, Swedish jewellery brand Sophie by Sophie takes great social responsibility. For more than a decade, it has made the world a more beautiful place, not only by producing fantastic jewellery but also by showing compassion, support and humanity to those who need it the most. By Pia Petersson

It was when Sophie Gyllenhammar Mattsson was on maternity leave that the idea began to take root. What if she would establish her own jewellery business? Her second child was born two years later, and during that stint of maternity leave she stopped just thinking about the idea and decided to go for it. With a background in fashion PR, Gyllenhammar Mattsson realised that she would have to acquire some advice and knowledge about jewellery from others. “Luckily, through a friend I got 16 | Issue 111 | April 2018

to know this fantastic Argentinian artist, Horacio Ramirez-Achinelli, who mainly worked with jewellery. He helped me breathe life into my ideas – he made them real,” Gyllenhammar Mattsson begins. She ended up spending time as a sort of apprentice in Ramirez-Achinelli’s workshop, as well as taking classes in jewellery design. “I really wanted to learn more about the trade and the art of making jewellery,” she continues. Her business, Sophie by Sophie, was established in 2006 and has been a success story ever since.

Classic with a modern twist The interest in jewellery has been there since childhood. Gemstones, in particular, have always had a special place in Gyllenhammar Mattsson’s heart. “It’s amazing that nature produces these lovely gemstones. Just think that a rugged mountain can produce such beauty,” she reflects. The interest in jewellery was shared by her late mother. “My mum was incredibly supportive during those first few years of the business,” Gyllenhammar Mattsson recalls. Since the start, gemstones have formed the foundation of Sophie by Sophie’s jewellery collections. “In the early days, a particular gemstone was the starting point for every piece of jewellery I designed,” says Gyllenhammar Mattsson. Appealing to a wide group of

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Sophie by Sophie

women, “from ten to 100 years old”, most of Sophie by Sophie’s jewellery comes in a modest as well as a more dramatic version. “I’d say my jewellery is classic with a modern twist. I don’t like things too complicated, too busy. Instead, I prefer a clean and simple look that’s unpretentious, yet has character. It’s nice when there’s a little twist somewhere, something to make it special,” she says.

Childhood Just one year after Sophie by Sophie was founded, contact and cooperation with the World Childhood Foundation – often referred to as just Childhood – was established. Childhood was started by Sweden’s Queen Silvia in 1999, its main aim being to defend the rights of children and promote better living conditions for vulnerable and exploited children at risk all over the world. Again, Gyllenhammar Mattsson’s mother was in a way instrumental for the establishment of this cooperation. “My mum was a social worker who, throughout her life, was very engaged in questions concerning children’s wellbeing. She inspired and convinced me that it’s important to take part in this kind of work and strive to improve the situation for the most vulnerable,” Gyllenhammar Mattsson says.

the production of a special bracelet, the Childhood bracelet. Each one of the ten stones in Sophie by Sophie’s Childhood bracelet symbolises a different article in the Convention on the Rights of the Child. “A percentage of the sales of this bracelet goes straight to Childhood. In fact, the Childhood bracelet is one of our bestsellers, so we’re very pleased that we’ve been able to contribute to the vital work of the organisation,” Gyllenhammar Mattsson says.

ous part of the celebrations to mark Childhood’s 20th anniversary next year. In addition to Childhood, Sophie by Sophie also works with a number of other charities. This May, a special jewellery collection will be launched in collaboration with Wildhood Foundation, a Swedish non-profit organisation that fights the poaching and illegal trafficking of endangered wild animals in Africa and Indonesia.

The main way in which Sophie by Sophie cooperates with Childhood is through

The collaboration has been successful and Sophie by Sophie will be an obvi-

There is no doubt that this is a brand made up of a group of hardworking people; consequently, it is not surprising that the future seems very exciting indeed. Specifically, there are plans to develop the website and expand further internationally. “Germany in particular is such an interesting market, which we’ve been able to start to access. We feel there’s a good possibility for us to expand there,” Gyllenhammar Mattsson explains.

Photo: André Tuvberger

Photo: Cornelia Wahlberg

A bright future ahead

A real gem She adds that, indeed, she does have a favourite gemstone. “I really love a slightly unknown beautiful gemstone called chrysoprase. It has become almost integral to Sophie by Sophie and has been there as a sort of recurring theme since the start,” she finishes. Childhood bracelet. Photo: André Tuvberger

Webshop: www.sophiebysophie.com

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 17

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Aros Maler Entreprise

The Z house. Photo: Rambøll Arkitektur

Painting the town On a building site, communication, reliability and quality are key to guaranteeing that a project is finished on time and to the highest standard. AROS Maler Entreprise (AROS Painting Enterprise) has become renowned in Denmark for being a partner that focuses on all three aspects. By Josefine Older Steffensen | Photos: Aros Maler Entreprise

AROS Maler Entreprise is a painting company specialising in new-builds and renovations. It is based outside Aarhus, Denmark, and has, since its establishment in 2010, worked on everything from large, new corporate headquarters to high-end apartment blocks, including several award-winning buildings. Their projects have included buildings drawn by the world-renowned Danish architecture company BIG (Bjarke Ingels Group). “We really care about being there for the clients we’re working with. Our policy from the beginning was that when we’re working on a project, we make sure that 18 | Issue 111 | April 2018

our clients know we’re there, where to find us, and that they can contact us at any time. We get to know each other incredibly well, which is hugely important for the smooth running of the project,” explains Simon Elkjær, owner of AROS Maler Entreprise.

Further developments The most important assets that AROS Maler Entreprise has are its employees. “We are always looking to make improvements for our more than 80 employees to ensure that their needs are met. If we have the best-trained and happiest employees, we can provide an even better

service. We often get clients asking for particular people that they’ve worked with before,” says Elkjær. In September 2017, AROS Maler Entreprise got itself a sister company, as AROS Development was established. The same people are behind it, but it specialises in autoclaved aerated concrete. From the start, AROS Development has been hugely popular; in fact, it is fully booked for many months to come. “We noticed that there was a gap in the market for this type of concrete and have found it very beneficial to be able to offer both painting and concrete,” Elkjær explains. “I think one thing that’s important is that we’re not afraid to say no. If we don’t have the capacity to deliver the quality we want to, whether that’s painting or concrete, then we’d rather say no to a project, instead of doing something that doesn’t live up to our quality stand-

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Aros Maler Entreprise

ards. That way, our clients know that when we do work on something, we give it 100 per cent.”

The Court in Aarhus The old Courthouse in Aarhus, dating from 1906, is one of the most magnificent buildings in the city. AROS Maler Entreprise was asked to help restore the building, taking its long history into account. “This was a complicated project to work on, as there were many different elements to take into account, including wall paintings and a lot of panelling. We often had upwards of 30 extra people on the project and worked closely with the architects to ensure that everything was delivered on time,” says Elkjær. AROS Maler Entreprise executed the project by taking into account the building’s rich history. The building comprises over 4,200 square metres, and every square metre had to be meticulously taken care of. The Aarhus Courthouse.

Bestseller Office Complex Bestseller, a big international Danish company, opened new offices in Aarhus harbour in 2015, and AROS Maler Entreprise was hired to take care of the painting of the 22,000 square metres. The project was built in many different blocks and therefore required a great deal of flexibility from AROS Maler Entreprise, something they were happy to offer. “We’re very proud to have been part of this building. It was a challenge as things were constantly changing and went through many different stages, but we also loved having to maintain our high standards and to adapt our work.” In 2015, the Bestseller building won the prestigious architecture award, WAN Commercial Award.

Staying true to themselves “We never dreamt of being a huge company. We mainly wanted to remain local

and ensure that what we were doing was of the highest quality and that we had a good and close working relationship with our clients. We’ve maintained that, but also chosen to grab new opportunities, whether that means expanding with cement or taking on projects in other areas of Denmark,” says Elkjær. AROS Maler Entreprise and AROS Development are there to deliver highquality work, as well as ensuring that a project runs smoothly. So far, they have never failed to deliver a project on time, and their standards never waiver. “What we want for the future is to get even better at what we do, by continuously looking at our own processes as well as training our employees. We’re always looking to improve and are excited to see what the future has in store for us,” concludes Elkjær. Web: www.aros-maler.dk Instagram: @arosmalerentreprise

The Bestseller Office Complex. Photo: Runólfur Guðbjornsson/Photopop.dk

Christian Brandenborg and Simon Elkjær, the people behind AROS Maler Entreprise.

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 19

Seven days of fashion, for the modern man Meet new menswear fashion brand Dailyroutine Stockholm. Its contemporary collections, based around different looks for every day of the week, have already been praised by the trendy fashion crowd. By Malin Norman | Photos: Dailyroutine Stockholm

trousers and shirt, and mix jeans with a blazer on the Wednesday – and so on. Put simply, Dailyroutine makes it possible for the modern man to combine garments into looks for different occasions. “It’s an exciting time for menswear,” admits Lippich and continues: “Mainstream fashion is changing and consumers are more daring these days. Now it’s all about being individualistic and having the courage to stand out.”

Dailyroutine Stockholm is the brain child of experienced fashion designer Christian Lippich. His up-and-coming Stockholmbased brand is centred around dandyism and Scandinavian minimalism for contemporary consumers. At the core of the seasonal collections are seven looks, one for each day of the week. Creative director Lippich explains: “Every piece is part of a complete wardrobe. Our designs work well together, so you can mix and match to create different identities or styles. With Dailyroutine, you can be your own hero, seven days a week.”

Experienced designer returning to Stockholm

For instance, wear a more formal suit on a Monday, perhaps opt for a fashion style on the Tuesday with non-matching

Lippich has solid experience in fashion design, with a degree in womenswear from the Royal College of Art in London and previous experience from Alexander

20 | Issue 111 | April 2018

McQueen in London and Elie Tahari in New York, to mention a few. He was also head designer at Tiger of Sweden for seven years, notably contributing to a stronger design identity and commercial success for the brand. With his own new brand, Lippich is turning his attention to menswear to create a subtle mix of luxury and casual, playing with patterns and some layering. Based abroad for many years, he appreciates being back in Sweden. “Stockholm is the place to be right now, with a huge focus on fashion – it’s all about the Scandinavian look at the moment,” he says. First introduced at Stockholm Fashion Week in 2016, Dailyroutine is launching its fifth collection this autumn. The SS18 collection presents a blend of ethnical design elements and modern Scandinavian minimalism with patterned suits

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Dailyroutine

and shirts, blazers and shirt jackets, mixed with stylish cotton basics. Drawstring trousers and unlined blazers in technical sportswear fabrics stand out alongside summery linen shirts and the finest Italian wool bermudas. The oversize coat is a must-have, perfect for updating the outerwear wardrobe. The season’s colour scale includes earthy tones and shades of blue, white and yellow, mixed with eccentric reds.

Making noise in the world of fashion From the start, the brand has received plenty of positive attention from press, buyers and consumers, both in Sweden and abroad. American Vogue wrote about the very first collection; Dailyroutine was named Stockholm’s hottest new menswear brand by Café Magazine; and, according to Bon Magazine, the

mix of classic and punk has brought blazers back in fashion. Dailyroutine has also proved popular among the fashion crowd, influencers and celebrities. Among others, the singer of rock band Mando Diao, Björn Dixgård, has been spotted wearing Dailyroutine. Actor Richard Ulfsäter, who has appeared in productions and TV adaptations such as Camilla Läckberg’s Fjällbackamorden (‘The Fjällbacka Murders’), has also been sporting the stylish looks. 25-year-old singer and influencer Andreas Wijk and Dolce & Gabbana model David Lundin are also fans of the brand. Clearly used to working with high-quality fabrics for fashion brands, Lippich is keeping tight control of the design pro-

cess and production. Dailyroutine is environmentally certified and will include eco cotton and other organic materials in future collections, and the brand has also joined the Swedish Fashion Charter to collaborate on diversity and social sustainability. Focusing on the very best also in terms of its partnership with boutiques, Dailyroutine is available at exclusive department store Nordiska Kompaniet: at NK Herr Trend in Stockholm, at NK Man in Gothenburg, and in NK’s web shop, Man of a Kind.

Web: dailyroutine.se Facebook: dailyroutinestockholm Instagram: @dailyroutinestockholm

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 21

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Mia Lagerman

‘The innovative products reflect my need to try out various materials and craftsmanship.’

Exploring the field between art and commerce Scandinavian designer Mia Lagerman creates a mix of furniture for larger production as well as more experimental pieces. Her work drifts in the area between art and design, making use of traditional methods yet suitable for our modern day. By Malin Norman | Photos: Mia Lagerman

Mia Lagerman is a key player on the European furniture design scene. She runs her own design studio in Copenhagen and boasts a portfolio with work for some of the leading brands in the industry, such as Fritz Hansen, Skagerak Denmark, Blå Station, van Esch, Svedbergs and IKEA. Over the years, the skilled designer has been awarded prominent awards such as Red Dot, Excellent Swedish Design and Elle Interiör Design Prize. Born in Sweden, Lagerman has lived in Denmark for some 25 years. Trained 22 | Issue 111 | April 2018

at the University College of Arts in Stockholm and the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts in Copenhagen, she is a true Scandinavian at heart with a focus on quality, functionality and aesthetics. After a trainee position at Blå Station in Sweden, she joined Studio Copenhagen, an external IKEA design studio where she, together with the team, created award-winning products such as the washbasin Ånn and the toy storage unit Trofast for IKEA. Here, Lagerman also had the opportunity to take part in IKEA’s Democratic Design exhibitions, displayed in Milan, New York and Singapore.

In 2011, as further proof of her successful concept, Lagerman was one of five designers selected to decorate the Finn Juhl Hall in the UN building in New York. The following year, she was elected chairman of the Cabinetmakers’ Autumn Exhibition, where young and established designers and architects can create innovative new designs in collaboration with manufacturers.

Successful Scandinavian expression Unsurprisingly, considering her background, Lagerman’s expression is a combination of Swedish and Danish, resulting in a sleek Scandinavian style with simple lines. However, the designer explains that there is a clear distinction between the two countries. “I have recently discovered that the difference is greater than I initially thought,” says

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Mia Lagerman

Lagerman, and elaborates: “In my view, there are two separate traditions and ways of thinking.” Danish production has had a strong tradition of masters in carpentry since the early 20th century, especially during the golden era of the 1950s and ‘60s, with a typical minimalist expression. Sweden, on the other hand, has had a slower development dating back to the Gustavian style in France at the end of the 18th century, with a Swedish interpretation of the renaissance style – expressing both simplicity and functionality – and important influences such as designer Josef Frank and artist couple Karin and Carl Larsson.

Five buckets and timeless pieces Having worked commercially for most of her career, Lagerman is keen on finding new angles in her designs. “I want

‘Aesthetics are very personal and something that grows all the time. You develop your eye through your whole life.’

to explore the area in the field of art and commerce,” she says. “It’s interesting to see how you can design for larger productions yet in an artistic manner, so that the products don’t look like everything else on the market.” In order to do so, she explores traditional craftsmanship and production techniques to see how they can be used for the modern day. An example of Lagerman’s work in the field between art and commercial design is The Five Buckets, a collaboration with Skagerak Denmark for last year’s exhibition for Snedkernes Efterårsudstilling at Design Museum Denmark. Made of steel and taking on a rusty colour, the components of the piece are well suited for outdoor use. The design has recently become part of the Danish Arts Foundation, which aims to promote Danish art nationally and abroad.

Another outstanding design in Lagerman’s repertoire is the wall-mounted clock made of mat cotton paper for Fritz Hansen Objects. The paper is made according to a 300-year-old production method, making for an interesting combination of traditional craftsmanship and innovative design. “The wall clock shows how you can use old techniques and find new ways that suit our times,” says Lagerman. Other new designs of hers include the canvas cabinet and fruit cabinet as well as the robust washbasin in lava stone, which the designer originally created for her own house in Mallorca.

Web: mialagerman.com Facebook: Mia Lagerman Instagram: @mialagerman

Mia Lagerman.

‘Good design is when everything comes together. It is best when you explain it in a few words, when you understand it without endlessly long explanations, pictures and texts.’

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 23

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | FDB Møbler

Poul M. Volther’s J46 chairs.

Furniture to make us feel at home FDB Møbler was founded by FDB, now COOP, and Børge Mogensen, one of Denmark’s most cherished designers, in 1942. The aim was to make affordable, high-quality furniture for normal people in normal homes. The project produced classics such as the J46 chair and significantly influenced Denmark’s rich design tradition in the 20th century. In 2013, FDB Møbler was relaunched, bringing back design classics as well as new furniture to suit 21st century people. By Louise Older Steffensen | Photos: Martin Juul

“The principles of FDB Møbler are the same today as in 1942,” says FDB Møbler’s CEO Ole Kiel. “The furniture should look good, of course, but most importantly of all, it should suit the needs of its users and be designed to withstand normal, everyday use.” The idea that practicality should be at least as important as aesthetics in good design, spurred on by the FDB designers and their generation, became a cornerstone in Danish design. The affordability of FDB Møbler also made high-quality design furniture available early on to 24 | Issue 111 | April 2018

much of the Danish population, helping to cement the idea that design pieces could be a part of every home.

Furniture for the 21st century “While most of the design classics work just as well now as ever, it is also important to adapt to the times,” says Kiel. “By that, I don’t primarily mean the look of things – good lines will always look good and I think most people agree that the streamlined, simple and elegant look of Danish design from the ‘50s and ‘60s, for example, looks as clean and inviting as ever.” The functional requirements of a

lot of furniture, however, have changed significantly. “We use our furniture differently than we did 50 or 70 years ago,” Kiel explains. “Back then, sofas were for sitting in, coffee tables were for putting coffee cups and biscuits on, and we liked to store tonnes of knick-knacks in large, dominant cabinet systems in our small apartments. Now, we lounge on the sofa, put our feet on the coffee table and prefer to have fewer things on display in more open, airy rooms. It’s important that our furniture is comfortable and practical for the actual needs we now have. It should look great while mirroring our real lives.” With its mix of old and new, FDB Møbler’s current catalogue reflects this mentality. “The J46 chair, which was designed by FDB’s second lead designer Poul M. Volther in 1946, continues to be the alltime best-selling chair to come out of

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | FDB Møbler

Denmark,” says Kiel. “And the J148 sofa by Erik Ole Jørgensen from 1978 remains as popular as ever. These are great examples of how simple, comfortable, timeless pieces work fabulously in our current homes. Similarly, Mogens Koch’s simple, light bookcases work just as well today as they ever did, whereas we’ve retired many of our larger, heavier bookcase units to make space for new things we need today, such as multifunctional furniture.”

Furniture for the 22nd century? FDB Møbler’s younger designers continue to uphold the design studio’s principles of affordability, quality, comfort, and simple elegance that fits seamlessly into many different types of space, but their pieces often perform slightly different roles than those of their ancestors. Stine Weigelt’s three-legged Anker chair, for example, retains the

Erik Ole Jørgensen’s J148 sofa.

Børge Mogensen’s J52B chair.

minimalist lines of its predecessors to form a simple but comfortable backrest, yet does not look out of place as a modern bedside table. Similarly, FDB Møbler’s youngest family members, Diana Claudia Mot and Isabella Bergstrøm, have created the Radius bench, which combines aesthetically pleasing comfort with storage space and multifunctional usage possibilities to accommodate the smaller homes that many city-dwellers live in today. It also just so happens that FDB Møbler’s tradition of employing the best materials and quality craftsmanship also adheres very well to the modern emphasis on sustainability. “Our furniture is built to last,” Kiel asserts. “It costs a bit more than flat-pack furniture, let’s say, but it will last for generations, and it won’t lose value – in fact, some of our original vintage pieces sell for much more now second-hand than

they cost when new. There’s a whole industry in Scandinavia dedicated to selling on your design pieces and buying design second-hand,” he adds. “It’s a win-win: for the buyer, the seller, the designer and, not least, the environment – both inside the home and outside in nature. Reusing furniture is much more sustainable for the environment than constructing new stuff all the time.” FDB furniture is made from sustainably sourced, FSC-certified wood and built by expert joiners. “The masterpieces from the 20th century have lasted beautifully into the 21st,” Kiel concludes. “I hope and believe that the ones we make today will last long into the 22nd.” Web: www.fdbmobler.dk Facebook: fdbmoblercoop Instagram: @fdbmobler

Stine Weigelt’s Anker chair.

Diana Claudia Mot and Isabella Bergstrøm’s Radius bench.

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 25

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Valerie / Trätoffelfabriken

Healthy growth for a feminine fashion brand With a collection of elegant designs and a personal experience for its customers, Swedish fashion brand Valerie is going from strength to strength.

around 30 retailers in Scandinavia and also available in the online shop.

By Malin Norman | Photos: Valerie

Valerie Aflalo comes from a solid fashion entrepreneurial background. Her father introduced Yves Saint Laurent to Scandinavia in the early ‘70s, and she set up her own brand, Valerie, in 2006. Its first concept shop was launched at MOOD Stockholm in 2012, and the company has just opened a shop-inshop at NK in Stockholm. “This is big news,” says a proud Valerie Aflalo. “We are happy to be doing well in terms of sales, at a time when many fashion brands are struggling.” What is the secret behind the achievement? The talented designer and founder elaborates on the continuous growth of her brand: “We realised the value of social media early on and managed to build a personal experience around my name, showing not just the designs but also who we are as a brand. Our customers are curious and

want to know more, so we share our heart and soul with them. I believe that this has been key to our success.” Worn by celebrities such as actress Malin Åkerman, the Valerie designs are popular for everyday as well as evening wear and special occasions, and the brand also has a line of bridal dresses. Valerie Aflalo highlights the importance of finding your niche in the market; the DNA of Valerie is a feminine brand with carefully selected European fabrics and manufacturing. “We want our clients to fall in love with the garment and love it forever! I still have some of my grandmother’s dresses in my closet and, in terms of design and quality, she was a big inspiration.” In addition to MOOD Stockholm and NK, the Valerie collection is represented in

Renaissance for wooden clogs

Valerie Aflalo, founder and designer.

Web: www.valerie-stockholm.com Instagram: @valerieofficial

By Malin Norman | Photos: Haga Trätoffelfabrik

If in search for retro wooden clogs and sandals, head to Haga Trätoffelfabrik in Gothenburg. This retail gem is maintaining its wide range of handcrafted and organic designs, but with a renewed focus. Haga Trätoffelfabrik is a true gem, going strong since 1933. Still in the same location on Haga Nygata, the boutique sells high-quality and hand-crafted wooden clogs. “Although Gothenburg has kept that small-city-by-the-ocean, it’s become a real popular destination, and at the heart of it lies Haga with its village-like charm,” says owner Erik Davis. The classic clogs have recently become trendy again and the business is growing, with visitors from all over the world dropping by the charming boutique. Here, you can find clogs that are skilfully handmade according to old Swedish craftsmanship traditions. They come in a range of classic and modern designs, patterns and colours. Haga Trätoffelfabrik also recently acquired Winter Life from Jämtland and will act as its new flagship store, offering the famous Luddan shoes made of wool 26 | Issue 111 | April 2018

felt. In the boutique, customers can also buy other handmade garments and accessories made of, for instance, linen from Hälsingland, wool from the east coast, and leather from Småland. The growing market for honest, high-quality products has had a positive impact on the business, and Davis is pleased with the positive development. “Consumers have become more aware, and craftsmanship and sustainable designs are very popular,” he says. “We wouldn’t do things any other way here at Haga Trätoffelfabrik, but of course we’re grateful for this trend.” Opening hours: Monday to Friday: 11am-1pm and 2pm-6pm Saturday: 11am-4pm Sunday: 12pm-4pm

Web: www.hagatratoffel.com Facebook: hagatratoffel Instagram: @hagatratoffel

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Hilleberg

Photo: Lars Larsson/activeoutdoor.se

Photo: Göran Svensk

Photo: Rolf Hilleberg

Photo: Will Copestake/willcopestakemedia.com

‘We understand extreme weather’ Petra Hilleberg and her brother, Rolf, grew up surrounded by tents. Their parents started the company carrying their surname in the early ‘70s and have devoted most of their lives since to developing the perfect tent. “Our whole family is still involved and very loyal to our company,” says Petra, CEO of the Hilleberg Group. By Sara Wenkel

“My father, Bo Hilleberg, who worked as a forester and spent much of his time outdoors, could not find a high-quality tent on the market, so he decided to create his own,” Petra explains about the history of Hilleberg. “Meeting his future wife, my mother, Renate, proved to be the ‘missing ingredient’ as, among many talents, she also had the right sewing skills.” The rest is a story of success, as Hilleberg today creates tents that are praised all over the world.

Scrutinising every little detail In contrast to Hilleberg’s competitors, the company makes nothing but tents. “We focus all our time, money and efforts on tents to make sure we have

the best tents out there,” says Petra. Hilleberg has their own laboratory, and they also collaborate with Mid Sweden University in Östersund, where all the materials are tested repeatedly. “It’s quite an involved process, but we want to make sure that we can stand behind any new material or detail 100 per cent before we incorporate it into our tents,” Petra continues. “It becomes extra important since it’s our family name on the label.” Hilleberg also test all tents out in the mountains, where they spend numerous nights in both new and existing models. In addition, the tents are tested in

a wind machine, where they can be left for several days. It is crucial to see how a tent stands up over time. “From a sustainability point of view, we want to sell a product that lasts for a long, long time,” says Petra.

A global company Hilleberg’s product development takes place in Sweden, something Petra believes is important to their international clientele. “Swedes, like our tents, know how to deal with extreme weather,” she says. All marketing is managed in the US, and the production factory is – and has been for the past 20 years – located in Estonia. “We built the factory from scratch and have a close relationship with everyone working there,” says Petra. “Eight of the ten employees that we employed over 20 years ago still work with us!” Web: www.hilleberg.com

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 27

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Helbak ApS / Kidi ApS

Interiors that brighten your day

By Heidi Kokborg | Photos: Helbak

Malene Helbak designs colourful and versatile products in a clean, Nordic style that makes you smile, and which brightens up both your day and your home. Her hope is that her designs will inspire people and radiate happiness and positivity. In 2000, ceramist Malene Helbak founded the company Helbak, creating beautiful and colourful products for everyday use in your home. She wanted to design products that would brighten up people’s day. “When I studied in London, I went to markets almost every weekend, and I loved all the products from the ‘50s. To me, they radiated such positivity, happiness and optimism about the future. It might just be a cup, but to me it was so much more. This is what inspires me when I create my products. I hope that it makes people’s day better if they start their morning drinking coffee from one of my mugs,” Helbak smiles.

limit. “I love the idea that people can use a cup for coffee, as a toothbrush stand or to keep pencils in it. Or use the plates for a flower decoration on the table. I like to break the habits and let people decide what they want to do with the things and use them for,” says the designer. You can buy Helbak’s designs online and in a range of boutiques around Denmark.

Web: www.helbak.dk Facebook: helbak.dk Instagram: @helbakdesign

Let your imagination run wild One of the unusual things about Helbak’s products is that you can use them for anything you like – only your imagination is the

Design your own unique Square Reol The Square Reol is Kidi’s baby. It was how the company started, and the shelf is still the heart of the company. You choose the colours and wood for your own unique Square Reol, so you effectively end up designing a shelf that is exactly how you want it. In 2004, Flemming Didriksen felt that there had to be a better way of building shelves, so he sat down and started drawing the shelf he thought was missing on the market. Shortly afterwards, the Square Reol was born, and Didriksen and his wife, Kirsten Stilling, founded the company Kidi. “The Square Reol is our company’s baby. It is a modular system consisting of six modules that people build, like Lego. The customer chooses between seven colours and decides whether they want it to be in finger-tapped solid oak or walnut,” says Didriksen.

Luxurious furniture What makes the Square Reol stand out from other shelves is the fact that the external dimensions are fixed, and therefore, 28 | Issue 111 | April 2018

no matter how you combine the modules, they are always aligned. As a new and luxurious touch, you can also choose a leather grip on the Square Reol. “We wanted to offer people something more luxurious. The grips are made by people from the Institute for the Blind and Partially Sighted, because we realised that they needed work, and they are very good at creating the grips,” Didriksen explains.

By Heidi Kokborg | Photos: Kidi

Kidi also makes furniture such as sideboards and tables made of luxurious solid lumber. Web: www.kidi.dk Facebook: Square Reolen Instagram: @kidi.dk

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Branting

Founder and designer Annette Branting.

From the new Mr. Branting collection.

From the new Miss Vain collection.

Unique clothes created just for you Branting is not your typical fashion brand. The clothes are created with strong individuals in mind and do not necessarily follow current fashion. “I want my customers to feel that a certain garment looks good on them because it is created just for them and their body – not because the latest trend tells them so,” says Annette Branting, founder and chief designer at Branting. By Sara Wenkel | Photos: Magdalena Björnsdotter

In school, she was expelled from the craft and sewing class and could not even draw a straight line – at least not until a job coach told her to nurture her artistic side. Branting did something people would think impossible when she started her fashion brand in 2000. With a unique sense of style, she has turned her self-titled brand Branting into an established fashion trademark. “My inspiration comes from people. I can see a woman and think that she needs something that matches her beautiful eyes, and then I go ahead and design that,” she explains. It is important to her that the clothes will last year after year, and the high-quality materials make sure that the fit keeps.

Miss Vain and Mr. Branting New since last year are her two new brands: Miss Vain and Mr. Branting.

“While doing buy-ins, I came across many nice fabrics that I just couldn’t forget, but they didn’t fit into the Branting brand,” Branting explains.

our clothes should be an experience, and the knowledgeable staff at our retailers help our customers. It is a craft,” she says. Branting only produces its lines in relatively small volumes. “I want people to understand that if they do not buy a particular garment at a given time, it will most likely be gone by the next time,” Branting concludes. See the website for a full list of retailers.

Therefore, she created Miss Vain with a sexier, city chic woman in mind. She is also now designing menswear. “I’m using comfortable materials and adding small, fun details to match the women’s collection. But I avoid it being too quirky, because in my experience men are not as brave as women,” Branting smiles.

To be found at retailers only Branting is predominantly found at a range of Swedish retailers, and also across Europe with a focus on selected boutiques in Germany and Switzerland – but not online. This is a conscious decision, and Branting explains why: “Buying

Web: www.branting.se

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 29

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | &SHUFL

Photo: Jonas Danholt

A kitchen with a personal touch Take the structure of an IKEA kitchen and add your own personal touch to make it unique. That is the successful recipe for the kitchen company &SHUFL, the ambition of which is to revolutionise an old-fashioned kitchen industry.

with the final result if they are challenged a bit in the process and forced to think of other alternatives,” says Brems.

By Nicolai Lisberg

One design, plenty of opportunities

For a long time, there were mainly two options when buying a new kitchen. If you had a lot of money, you would go with the custom-made kitchen cabinet solution, and if not, you would go to IKEA and get the affordable one that looked very much like the kitchen at your nextdoor neighbour’s house. “Everything was either really expensive or very white and perhaps a bit dull. I had an IKEA kitchen myself, where I kept the foundation but gave it a makeover with a new surface, new cabinet doors and new drawer fronts, and it changed the way the kitchen looked and felt. It was a different and pretty much unseen way of 30 | Issue 111 | April 2018

giving it a personal touch for a very reasonable price,” says Kristoffer Brems, architect and co-founder of &SHUFL. He founded the company in 2013 together with Lotte Hyldahl, who had heard about Brems’ way of designing his own kitchen, and together they saw an opportunity on the market. “We wanted to challenge a very reactionary and boring kitchen industry, and we still do. We are not afraid of taking risks with our designs and materials, and we also challenge our customers rather than just agreeing with them. From experience, we know that our customers end up twice as happy

In order to help their customers choose the right kitchen, &SHUFL’s architects offer advice and consultancy throughout the entire process. “We don’t just shuffle the IKEA cabinets around with our design, but we shuffle our own materials around as well. The design is in many ways very simple and classic, which allows you to shake things up with a wide range of colours and materials so that you can get the exact look you want,” says Hyldahl. Brems agrees: “Basically, our designs contain plenty of opportunities. We work with different colours, materials and surfaces, but underneath it’s all the same design concept. It’s the same iconic grip,

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | &SHUFL

which makes it easy to open heavy doors to the fridge or the freezer, for instance. Many people will have the same kitchen, but they will all look different, because you can shuffle it around any way you want.”

The beauty of simplicity The idea of working with just one design is a sort of dogma laid down by the company itself, just like they have chosen to produce everything in carpentries in Denmark in order to make sure that all materials are of the highest quality. “So many companies in the design industry constantly strive to create new trends, which means that the design will quickly be outdated. So it’s not because we are

Photo: Lea Jessen

Kristoffer Brems and Lotte Hyldahl. Photo: Pernille Ringsing

lazy that we only work with one design; it’s because we want something that’s timeless and lasts for a very long time. The beauty of simplicity, one might call it,” says Hyldahl. “But on the other hand, we also strive to be innovative when it comes to using new materials, which might not be so traditional in the kitchen industry.” As of now, &SHUFL has only one store in Denmark, but the company delivers kitchen solutions all over Europe, and the plan is to expand the business to other markets and countries across the world in the foreseeable future. “We have had a very good response to our solutions.

People are really starting to look at their kitchen as something they are proud of. They don’t want to have the same kitchen as their neighbours, but they also don’t want to pay too much money for it; they want quality at affordable prices, and with a unique and personal touch that separates their kitchen from all the boring, white kitchens out there. And that’s exactly what we are able to help them with,” says Brems. Web: www.andshufl.com Facebook: andshufl Pinterest: andshufl Instagram: @andshufl

Photo: Lea Jessen

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 31

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | LITHOS Natursten ApS

Working with sandstone When Hasse and Gitte Vilstrup were renovating their garden, they found the supply of paving quite dull. They therefore took matters into their own hands and set up Lithos, becoming Denmark’s first supplier of sandstone from India, and they have since taken Denmark by storm. By Josefine Older Steffensen | Photos: Lithos

“What we found was that most of the paving available in Denmark was made of concrete. There’s nothing wrong with concrete, but at the same time it often all looks the same, and we wanted something more colourful. So we went to an exhibition in Germany and loved all the variety of the natural stone there, so we got some for our own garden and wanted other Danes to have some as well,” explains Hasse. Hasse and Gitte established Lithos in 2007. Lithos means ‘natural stone’ in Greek, and over the last decade Lithos has become one of Denmark’s leading suppliers of sandstone and slate. Through strong personal and professional relationships with both suppliers 32 | Issue 111 | April 2018

and customers, the future of Lithos is firmly set in stone.

A high-quality family business “What I love most about what I do is the relationship we have with our suppliers in India. Over the years, we have gotten to know each other incredibly well and have even been to their children’s weddings. We work with two families there, and they have become like part of our family,” says Hasse. Together with their suppliers they have quality tested the natural stone to the highest level. Sandstone is believed by many to be unable to survive the varying climate in Denmark, however the paving that Lithos sells is of the high-

est quality. It is tested to ensure that it can withstand frost, rain and fluctuating temperatures. “That’s another reason why we’ve worked with the same people since we started out,” Hasse explains. “Over the years, we’ve tried to import from other suppliers, but we’ve always come back to our partners in India, because we can ensure the quality and safety of the products. It’s extremely important to us that what we’re selling is the best you can get.”

Making the customers happy Safety and quality are some of the main reasons why people keep coming back to Lithos. Another reason is the variety on offer. The company has both sandstone and slate in a range of colours, textures and sizes. The slate fits with the traditional Scandinavian style, while the sandstone provides more texture and adds a touch of ‘hygge’. The sandstone comes in six different colours, some of which even have small fossils in them.

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Lithos

“There’s nothing better than when a customer emails us a picture of their garden once they’ve finished it and are proud of it,” says Hasse. “We love seeing how the paving adds something new to every space. It’s amazing how much of a difference it can make.” When customers are looking for new paving for their garden, they often get in contact with Lithos directly, who can then advise them on what will fit their garden and style. The paving can then either be bought through the website or by going to one of the showrooms found across Denmark.

Easy to maintain

putting salt on it. The paving will not be harmed. If your house is by the sea, do not fret: the paving has also been tested to ensure that the unforgiving sea air will not harm it.

Inspiration across borders Lithos has over the years also delivered to Norway, Sweden, Germany, Portugal, Spain and the UK, with their paving being used by gardeners and private customers as well as in public spaces. The high-quality, hard-wearing paving is a favourite of many. The website presents a range of images from previous customers, all of which serve as inspiration for future custom-

ers. Alongside the website, there is also an 84-page catalogue that uses the sandstone and slate in inspiring ways. “The website and the text in the catalogue are in Danish, but give us a call and we’ll help you out,” promises Hasse. For Lithos, what is important is safety, quality and being able to find what you really want for your garden or outdoor space. “We never want to compromise on quality, safety or customer satisfaction. We’re here to ensure that people make the most of their outdoor space, and that they love the end product,” Hasse concludes. Web: www.lithos.dk

Not only can Lithos point you in the right direction if you need someone to put the paving down for you, or give you top tips if you are going to do it yourself; they also ensure that the paving continues to look great further down the line.“The paving naturally gets patina when it’s outside and changes with age. However, if you want to restore it to its original state, all you have to do is give it a quick power wash. This makes it super easy to maintain, and you don’t have to worry about getting new paving further down the line, as it’s easy to spruce it back up,” says Hasse. During the winter, when there is snow and ice, it is easy to prevent slipping by

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 33

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Re Natursenge

A purer sleep Re Natursenge are first-movers when it comes to creating high-quality beds made entirely from natural materials. By Nicolai Lisberg | Photos: Re Natursenge

We spend about a third of our life in bed, so naturally most people want a bed of high quality and comfort – but why not also prioritise a bed that is made from all natural materials? “We’ve seen a green trend in society in recent years, but up until now, it seemed like that trend didn’t exist in the bed industry. I found that odd, since we spend so much time in our beds, so it became my ambition as well as an obligation to create and design beds made entirely out of natural materials,” says Alexander Brunsø, founder of Re Natursenge.

cent natural latex guarantee a pressurerelieving sleep, but we need to understand recovery as more than just an ergonomic quality. The skin is our biggest organ, and it absorbs everything it gets in touch with. That’s why we only use natural materials, so that our beds can unburden the body from chemicals and the risk of endocrine disruptors. We call it a purer sleep.”

In sync with nature Sustainability is in many ways a keyword for Re Natursenge, whose beds

are sold in Denmark, Germany, Luxembourg, Switzerland, the Faroe Islands, the Netherlands, the UK and soon also Norway. The production of the beds is sustainable and aims to minimise the use of CO2, just like the construction of the bed itself makes it easy to recycle. “All parts of the bed can be easily separated and reused or recycled, so nothing has to be thrown away. When we are asleep, we unburden nature, so for us it was only logical that the bed itself would unburden nature too, by being sustainable. It’s about minimising the ecological footprint as much as possible, and that’s what Re Natursenge is all about,” says Brunsø.

Alexander Brunsø.

The company was born in November 2016, but even though it is relatively new, it boasts plenty of experience. Alexander Brunsø is the son of bed manufacturer Lars Brunsø, and the family has more than 35 years of experience when it comes to making beds. “We’ve used all our expertise to come up with this product. We believe that our beds can fulfil the very purpose of sleeping,” says Brunsø and elaborates: “Sleeping is fundamentally about recovery, and we try to reflect on that concept on different levels. Our mattresses of 100 per 34 | Issue 111 | April 2018

Web: www.re-beds.com Facebook: natursenge Instagram: @re.natursenge

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Magnus Olesen A/S

Above: The Butterfly series, designed by Niels Gammelgaard, has been expanded to include a new member: the Butterfly Lounge Classic chair. Butterfly Lounge Classic is rooted in the Nordic design tradition with a laminated wooden shell and solid wooden frame in Scandinavian wood: oak and black-stained oak. Below: The 8000 Series is a design icon, manufactured by Magnus Olesen since 1980. The chair is based on a patented joint technology – without tenons, screws or dowels – making it incredibly strong and, at the same time, very supple despite its low weight.

Eight decades of sustainable, aesthetic and functional furniture design Having worked with furniture production for eight decades, Magnus Olesen’s functional and aesthetic designs can be seen in a multitude of architectural projects and private homes. Designing and producing in Denmark, the company is today more focused than ever on its original values of sustainability and durability. By Signe Hansen | Photos: Magnus Olesen A/S

Founded by Magnus Olesen in 1937, Magnus Olesen A/S has its design roots solidly planted in the 1950s functionalist, minimalist Danish design heritage. Today, the company works with a number of well-respected current designers to develop and manufacture functional, durable and aesthetic furniture for the contract market. “The vision at the start of the company was to make solid, high-quality furniture based on wood, and that has continued to be our vision – to work with materials that are a natural part of the Danish environment,” says owner Nils Knudsen. “We don’t do products in plastic. We create products that we can recirculate and make sure have a long life span. That’s the way the company has been working since 1937.”

Working with designers such as Ib Kofod-Larsen, Kai Kristiansen, Rud Thygesen and Johnny Sørensen, Magnus Olesen has, while remaining true to its design roots, kept up with the developments of the time. Today, the company has an extensive portfolio of Danish classics as well as contemporary designs, all designed, developed and produced in Denmark. “A lot of people ask us why we still produce in Denmark, but really, I think the right question would be to ask: why not? If we design and develop our products in Denmark, it’s also natural that we produce them here in our own factory. It gives us the opportunity to move faster in the market and maintain the competitiveness to create the best products.”

Continuously striving to improve the sustainability of its products, Magnus Olesen has an increased focus on both the recyclability and the longevity of products. For this reason, most new products can be taken apart and components can be replaced in order to extend the product’s use. The Magnus Olesen showroom is situated on Christianshavn, Copenhagen.

Web: www.magnusolesen.com

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 35

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | GreenGate

Slow down and share a moment with GreenGate Ever since Danish husband and wife entrepreneurs Mona and Jesper Christiansen founded the interior design company GreenGate back in the early ‘90s, the philosophy has been that the everyday moments in life should be the most memorable and cherished. With beautiful, romantic and colourful products, they aim to remind us to slow down in a world that is busier than ever. By Heidi Kokborg | Photos: GreenGate

Before Mona and Jesper Christiansen founded GreenGate, they were both living hectic, career-driven lifestyles with long working hours typical for the PR industry. However, this changed when Mona became pregnant with their daughter in 1991. The couple both felt the need to slow down, and they wanted to create the perfect home for their new family. Mona began wondering if she could combine her passion for decorating with her skills as a marketing executive and still find balance between work and family life. Soon after, Mona and Jesper Christiansen founded GreenGate. “The story of GreenGate’s growth is one of both patience and passion, and it is 36 | Issue 111 | April 2018

no coincidence that the balance of family and work life is an important part of the GreenGate brand,” says Mads Bjørn Christiansen, marketing manager at GreenGate.

French inspiration GreenGate’s style is romantic, feminine and happy, and their products are loved for their beautiful and colourful flowers. When planning a new collection, Mona and Jesper browse their unique collection of antique books by legendary French textile designer Boussac. “The seed of each of GreenGate’s patterns and designs comes from a unique archive of thousands of antique, hand-painted designs from 19th century

France. The women at the Boussac design studio painted nature as they saw it, flower by flower, leaf by leaf, colour upon colour,” Christiansen explains. “The designs are re-developed, modified and given new colour pathways resulting in original GreenGate designs.” Since the very beginning, the philosophy at GreenGate has been to help slow down time, and with a more complex and busier world than ever, the philosophy has never been more relevant. “We believe that the simple everyday moments in life should be the most memorable and cherished. Our hope is that, by drinking coffee out of a beautiful GreenGate cup, we can help people be more present and appreciate that experience just a little bit more. We wish to encourage everyone to take a deep breath and enjoy the moment,” Christiansen smiles. Web: www.greengate.dk Facebook: GreenGateOfficial Instagram: @greengateofficial

Sp FA SH TOP ecial IO S The N W m BR ED e: AN ISH DS 20 18

Above: Rave Review. Photos: Mathias Nordgren.

An innovative approach to sustainability and personal expression If last year was all about sustainability and no gender, this year sees the same trend strengthen and deepen, with added elements of personation, styling and creativity. “It’s all about creating a multitude of the fashion’s own expression. We see women take up space, and it’s a season characterised by inclusivity and diversity,” says Erica Blomberg, head of marketing at the Swedish Fashion Council. By Linnea Dunne

As the government continues to push brand Sweden as a leader in all things sustainable, environmental awareness naturally continues to be a crucial, integral part of the fashion scene. With digitalisation and fashion tech at the heart of innovation, brands including APLACE and Atacac are exploring the border between virtual and physical garments, while others are enjoying a reserved journey onto the market, starting with e-commerce and having great success with pop-up boutiques.

at Rave Review, for example. They’re hand-picking what’s already in circulation and creating new, highly fashionable garments – no two pieces are ever the same. Then there’s Hope, breaking down the borders between male and female fashion, overthrowing norms and expectations of everything from fashion shows to sizing labels. Their goal is to be a socially relevant brand, a pioneer in fashion, and they’ve also created a platform to invite customers to participate in socio-political debates.”

“It’s a hugely exciting time for the Swedish fashion scene right now. So much is happening within both design and innovation,” says Blomberg. “Look

From community service apps for increased dialogue and inspiration to eco-labelled shoes with complete transparency, there seems to be no lim-

it to the innovation and creativity of the Swedish fashion industry. A true world leader, and for good reason. With the Swedish Fashion Council as its beating heart, the Swedish fashion scene is sure to continue to break down boundaries and raise the bar for what is possible – and sustainable – in the world of clothes and personal style. Erica Blomberg. Photo: Swedish Fashion Council.

Web: www.swedishfashioncouncil.se

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 37

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Top Swedish Fashion Brands 2018

The Acne Studios Spring/Summer 2018 campaign features Juliette Lewis.

The novel expression of a world outside fashion Acne Studios was born in 1997 when Jonny Johansson created 100 pairs of denim jeans with red stitching, giving them away to friends and family. Inspired by photography, art, architecture and contemporary culture, Johansson has become somewhat of an icon on the Swedish fashion scene – and Acne Studios is his brainchild. By Linnea Dunne | Photos: Acne Studios

Acne in Acne Studios stands for Ambition to Create Novel Expression, but Johansson – now creative director – has also admitted to liking the idea of appropriating a difficult word and making it cool. Arguably, the brand has managed to accomplish both. A Stockholm-based fashion house with a multi-disciplinary approach, Acne Studios creates readyto-wear, magazines, furniture, books and exhibitions, all characterised by Johansson’s keenness to juxtapose design and attention to detail alongside an eclectic use of materials and custom-developed fabrics – still with denim as a key strand to its collections. Among this season’s highlights is the Spring/Summer 2018 campaign starring Juliette Lewis. In a collaboration 38 | Issue 111 | April 2018

between the actress, photographer Talia Chetrit and stylist Vanessa Reid, the campaign and the collection cele-

brate strong women, with Juliette striking a series of poses in an exaggerated display of persona. “I was thinking about the strong women of ‘90s cinema,” says Johansson of the collection. “When Juliette Lewis arrived on set and saw the collection, she started to interpret the pieces by creating a character. During the shoot, Talia mirrored Juliette, creating this amazing direct energy.”

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Top Swedish Fashion Brands 2018

The Acne Studios Spring/Summer 2018 Women’s collection.

This women’s collection features satin shirts, high-waisted trousers and roomy cut tailoring. The Spring/ Summer 2018 men’s collection, meanwhile, aims to capture the transition from life in the city to the tranquility of the summer house typical of the Swedes in the summer. Take the relaxed mindset of the Swedish summer house and apply it to menswear. Think trench coats in linen, house coats in gabardine, shrunken sweaters and crochet tanks – long cuts, simple embroidery and pared-down comfort. “I wanted to capture that transition in this collection,” says Johansson of the Swedish holiday

tradition. “It is the movement from one mental state to another, and the wardrobe that goes with it.” In addition to this collection, Acne Studios also presents Acne Studios Blå Konst Spring/Summer 2018, a collection inspired by artist Gabriel Kuri. “I love how Gabriel Kuri looks at the world. He brings together objects and materials to tell his own story, which resonates with how we do things at Acne Studios Blå Konst. It is about examining and celebrating the everyday and the beauty of specific design,” the creative director explains.

What makes a novel fashion expression according to Acne Studios this summer? Embellished fabrics, roomy cuts, quilted suede and long silhouettes. Oversized collars, starch-treated jersey, handembroidered sequins and bra-top dresses. Cuban heel mules, leather briefcases and pumpkin bags. Welcome to the world of Acne Studios – a fashion world outside of fashion. Web: www.acnestudios.com Facebook: acnestudios Instagram: @acnestudios Twitter: @acnestudios

The Acne Studios Spring/Summer 2018 Men’s collection.

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 39

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Top Swedish Fashion Brands 2018

Love the seasons Outdoor brand Lundhags is an all-time classic, having watched the seasons change for 86 years and still going strong. Its designs are based on experience from activities in all kinds of environments and weather, yet the philosophy is simple – to create world-class outdoor products.

outdoors. Since 2000, the range also includes garments such as jackets and trousers, and backpacks – designed according to the same philosophy and with the ambition to function for a long time.

By Malin Norman | Photos: Lundhags

Classic Swedish brand Lundhags celebrated its 85th anniversary last year. “Lundhags has been around since 1932 when Jonas Lundhag started crafting boots, and our values have remained through generations,” says marketing manager Caroline Karlström. “We still live up to our promise and focus on functionality, quality and sustainability. And by sustainability, we mean classic outdoor products made from durable and sustainable materials, but also products that last over time. They become part of the experience!” Activities such as hiking in the mountains leave little room for compromise 40 | Issue 111 | April 2018

in terms of equipment, and the brand’s goal is to offer products for all imaginable conditions. Genuine craftsmanship and an eye for quality, fit and details form the base. Ultimately, Lundhags’ products are designed to offer comfort, regardless of how long and tough the adventures might be.

The Lundhags heritage The original range of boots has developed over the years and Lundhags has also introduced the Heritage series with urban boots for work and everyday activities. In addition, new series Omni contains more lightweight shoes suitable for urban settings as well as the

A recurring theme in the designs is the hybrid idea, where different materials are combined for the best functionality. For instance, a jacket might be produced from fast-drying Polycotton and with a waterproof material over the shoulders. Trousers may come with stretch fabric over the knees and seat for more flexibility. Combining materials in this manner has been typical for Lundhags since long before it became trendy in the rest of the outdoor industry. Karlström explains that Lundhags prefers when things are allowed to take time, rather than following the latest trends, and has chosen to launch one collection per year instead of two.

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Top Swedish Fashion Brands 2018

“We take our responsibility seriously,” she says. “It’s important for us to maintain a great product experience for our customers, both in our physical shops and online. Some people tell us that they have used our boots for 30 years. That’s what we like, products that last and that people can use for a long time, thanks to the classic design and comfortable fit.”

Experience the outdoors There sure is something special about the region of Jämtland, where Lundhags originates from and is still partly based. Here, the brand also runs one of its factory shops, in Järpen, which has become a destination in its own right, especially

during the summer months. The area is also home to numerous other outdoor brands and is a popular location for visitors looking to spend some quality time in the beautiful mountains. One opportunity for some open-air time is during KIA Fjällmaraton in Åre, where Lundhags is sponsoring two of the races. The Open Course takes place on 30 June and participants can choose to run or walk either 27 or 43 kilometres. This is a race indeed, but also an amazing culinary experience, including a taster menu with delicious treats along the course: for instance, tasty cinnamon buns from Åre Bakery. On 29 July, young adventurers can take part in Lundhags

Minimaraton in Edsåsdalen, with distances at 800 or 1,500 metres. Lundhags Open Course Date: 30 June 2018 Distance: 27 or 43 kilometres Web: www.fjallmaraton.se/oppet-fjall Lundhags Minimaraton Date: 29 July 2018 Distance: 800 or 1,500 metres Web: www.fjallmaraton.se/ arefjallen/minimaraton

Web: www.lundhags.se Facebook: lundhags Instagram: @lundhags

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 41

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Top Swedish Fashion Brands 2018

Fill the world with Mollys Would the world not be a much better place if there were more girls and women who did not try to fit into the traditional moulds of what a girl is supposed to be like? Would it not be great if there were more girls who dared to be themselves and walk their own way? More girls like Molly. By Pia Petersson | Photos: Linda Alfvengren

The inspiration behind Odd Molly comes from a cool girl with a lot of integrity. Molly was a skater girl in Los Angeles in the 1980s, whose courage to break free from conventions and follow her own dreams inspired the founders to start Odd Molly in 2002. The aspiration was to create a clothes brand that would dare to stand out, be imaginative and go its own way. “Molly was the only girl in a group of friends in Venice Beach who didn’t strive to fit in. Instead, she was herself 42 | Issue 111 | April 2018

and went her own way. Our vision is to help create more Mollys in the world, strengthen girls and make them believe in themselves,” begins category manager and vice president, soon CEO, Jennie Högstedt Björk. The main way in which Odd Molly does this is through the creation of exciting designs that include bold and beautiful colours, unique patterns and pretty details. Previously perhaps mainly associated with cosy yet cool cardigans, Odd Molly is these days known for its stylish

denim products, shoes, pretty tops and dresses as well as swimwear and interior details. “Our style is strong and clear, and easy to apply to different product groups. For instance, our first ski collection came out this winter,” Högstedt Björk continues.

The importance of sustainability In addition to increasing the number of Mollys in the world, a central aim of this innovative brand is to take into account sustainable and environmentally friendly methods of production in all of the day-to-day business of the company. “Long-term sustainability has always been an obvious part of Odd Molly. We consider ourselves as a brand of mind, heart and conscience, and we aspire to be active in the transition to a more sustainable society,” says Högstedt Björk.

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Top Swedish Fashion Brands 2018

Of course, a concrete way of addressing sustainability issues is to make products last, decrease overall waste and recycle wherever possible – all methods employed by Odd Molly. “Our clothes often have a very long life, and there’s a considerable second-hand market for them. For instance, Odd Molly is one of the most sought-after brands on one of the leading online commerce markets in Sweden. We see this as a good stamp of approval when it comes to the quality of our clothes,” explains Högstedt Björk.

Queens of Pop A dynamic brand like this will undoubtedly always have a number of great plans in the pipeline. This summer will be especially exciting as Odd Molly is going to be the main partner of Queens of Pop, a Swedish one-day festival featuring fe-

male artists only, including Zara Larsson and Icona Pop. “The festival’s mission resonates well with our philosophy and the way we think about our brand. We also think that the artists performing at the festival in different ways are good role models for different types of Mollys,” says Högstedt Björk.

A colourful online presence Attracting women and girls of all ages and from different walks of life, Odd Molly prides itself on having a very loyal group of customers. Many of them mainly use the Odd Molly webshop and other online retailers. Odd Molly has during the past few years managed to benefit from the transformation towards e-commerce in a positive way, with around 40 per cent of its business taking place online in 2017.

“We’ve noticed that our clothes work well online, as our patterns, colours and quirky details are quite photogenic,” Högstedt Björk explains. When she takes on her new position as CEO after the summer, she will bring with her a lot of experience from the fashion industry, including several years, in different positions, at H&M. Now she sees it as her mission to make Odd Molly expand even more internationally. “Currently, the majority of our business takes place in Sweden. We believe that Odd Molly’s style is at least as good on the global market as it is in Sweden. Consequently, we’re determined to work hard to make more people across the world discover Odd Molly,” she concludes. It seems that, in a not too distant future, more Mollys will populate the planet. Web: www.oddmolly.com

Photo: @undanflykter

Jennie Högstedt Björk Photo: Martin Petersson

Photo: @undanflykter

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 43

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Top Swedish Fashion Brands 2018

Ruben Östlund wore the tuxedo at the Oscars 2018. Photo: Sina Görtz.

Jens Lekman, musician. Photo: Amanda Andréas.

Environmentally conscious nostalgia Back in 1997, when Per Andersson rummaged through what remained of his grandparents’ clothes shop, which had closed in the 1980s after 50 years in business, he realised that he might have struck gold. The stock of clothes left behind had the potential of being blessed with a second life, partly owing to the growing interest in vintage design. By Pia Petersson

At the time, Andersson was studying finance at university but thought that maybe it was worth taking a chance on doing something different. “I decided to make use of my grandparents’ assets and opened the shop Nostalgi together with a friend. We sold deadstock vintage clothes in addition to remakes, art and design and soon became something of a hub for the Gothenburg independent scene,” says founder and creative director Andersson. The shop quickly attracted big Swedish alternative musicians such as Håkan Hellström, Soundtrack of Our Lives and Robyn. “After a few years, we started doing replicas of the best stuff sold in the shop. We sold these under the brand name Velour by Nostalgi,” Andersson continues. The first full collection was launched in 2005 with the aim to create a well-dressed and sustainable look for the man in tune with time. Much of the focus on sustainability has come with time, as the brand has evolved. “When we started, the con44 | Issue 111 | April 2018

cern for the environment was not that high up on the agenda. However, we began to talk about the environmental and human cost of producing clothes. We looked at this from a philosophical perspective and came to the conclusion that we all must do something. Based on this, we today take into account both human and environmental conditions when it comes to our clothes production,” Andersson explains. Consequently, a big part of the clothes are produced in accordance with Svanen, the certified sustainability eco label for the Nordic countries. The criteria to obtain a Svanen certification are very strict and include environmental, quality and health considerations. The success formula of mixing stylish retro design with a serious commitment to an environmentally friendly production cycle has evidently worked well. Proof of this is, for instance, the fact that the internationally acclaimed Swedish film director Ruben Östlund is collaborating with

Velour by Nostalgi and wore one of their tuxedos to this year’s Academy Awards. Perhaps it is true that the simplest business ideas are usually the best. Describing Velour by Nostalgi, Andersson concludes: “Why not create the world’s most good-looking and sustainable menswear line for men who actually care?”

The world’s first Svanen-labelled jeans, by Velour by Nostalgi. Photo: Velour by Nostalgi

Per Andersson, founder of Velour by Nostalgi. Photo: Velour by Nostalgi.

Web: www.velourstore.com

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Top Swedish Fashion Brands 2018

Striving to become the world’s most sustainable denim brand To become the world’s most sustainable denim brand was the plan from the very start. “Sustainability, both environmental and social, is the essence of Nudie Jeans,” explains CEO Joakim Levin.

Levin. Should the jeans be too worn, they will be reused in the production of other garments or to mend other jeans.

By Sara Wenkel | Photos: Nudie Jeans

100 per cent organic cotton

The admired jeans brand Nudie Jeans was founded in 2011, and today they have 26 physical shops – or Nudie Jeans Repair Shops, as they are branded – around the world. All the repair shops offer free Nudie Jeans repairs, regardless of where you have bought yours. “Our ambition is to create a jeans-overthe-counter type culture – and the free repair concept turns the shops into a kind of living gallery, where customers contribute for short periods with their pair of worn-out, much-loved jeans,” says Levin. If there is no repair shop around the corner where you live, you can order a repair kit free of charge from Nudie Jeans’ website. “Our staff even take our mobile repair stations out to visit our retailers every now and then,

so there is no excuse to not repair your jeans,” Levin continues.

Repair and reuse However, should you wish not to keep your worn-in jeans, you have the option to leave them at the repair shop and get a 20 per cent discount on a new pair. If the jeans are in an OK condition, the company will fix them and then sell them on as second hand. “We sell second-hand jeans in our repair shops, and this spring we will also introduce Re-use jeans, as we call them, on our website. It’s a unique chance to buy a pair of one-of-a-kind jeans, and a way to contribute to more sustainable consumption. Repair and reuse are fundamental to a sustainable future,” says

Repair and reuse are part of Nudie Jeans’ approach to becoming the world’s most sustainable denim brand. Only using 100 per cent organic cotton is another component. “First, we made our whole denim collection organic, and now all our cotton garments are made with 100 per cent organic cotton,” says the CEO, but adds that the company will never settle. “We can always do more and will do more to support sustainable consumption patterns.”

Web: www.nudiejeans.com

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 45

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Top Swedish Fashion Brands 2018

Yellow + blue = green As one of the most respected brands in children’s shoes in Scandinavia and a worldleader when it comes to sustainable design, Kavat is all about healthy, happy feet – that look good. With timeless design, quality materials and an adult collection to boot, this is a small company with a big mission. By Linnea Dunne | Photos: Kavat

“Our shoes don’t change much from one season to the next. We stand in contrast to the fashion scene in that sense; we’re slow fashion, and we’re comfortable with that. You don’t need to change your wardrobe all the time,” says Magnus Ericson, CEO of Kavat, the Swedish leather boot maker. Of course, why would they change? As the most eco-friendly shoe manufacturer in Europe, now the first brand to meet the new and stricterthan-ever EU Ecolabel requirements, Kavat has become the go-to brand for environmentally conscious parents and others who put quality first. “It’s been ten years Ecolabel certified, proud of, but our greener world goes

since we were first which we’re very commitment to a far beyond labels,”

46 | Issue 111 | April 2018

says Ericson. “We want to contribute to people changing their consumption behaviour, and indeed, we’ve grown a lot in recent years. Our shoes last long enough to be passed down from sibling to sibling, and clever parents realise this and see that it’s cheaper to buy good quality. For us, sustainability is not just talk – these are values that have been passed down through generations. We live and breathe this commitment in all parts of our company: I drive an electric car; we constantly improve our factories and use renewable energy for our production; we’re transparent throughout the entire production chain. The EU Ecolabel is simply a standard and a statement developed in Brussels as the official European eco-label, and frankly I think more brands should strive to get

it – not to boast or look good, but because it’s an external norm that helps consumers.” His conviction is admirable, but it is nothing new at Kavat. Founded in 1945 by Ragnar Karlsson, the brand has always been about quality over quantity, about doing things properly. Karlsson, who started working for a shoe factory aged 15, supposedly lost his thumb in a punching machine. Despite this, he went on to set up the shoe manufacturer Ymer, founded on the motto ‘No damn garbage!’. Today, we know his legacy as Kavat.

Shoes that withstand the test of time The EU Ecolabel means that Kavat customers can rest assured that their shoes are made with reduced water consumption and low emissions from tanning, that they are entirely free from chromium and other harmful substances such as phthalates and heavy metals, that no PVC is used, that the factory working conditions adhere to UN and OECD conventions, and much more. A less formal

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Top Swedish Fashion Brands 2018

but equally impressive piece of evidence of the quality of the boots is the fact that Kavat has been chosen as the winter boot supplier for Sweden’s alpine skiing national squad since 2013. ‘Walk carefully on mother nature,’ goes Kavat’s official slogan. With facts in hand, it seems like a no-brainer. No need to worry about allergies and cancer due to chromium. No need to worry about the development of growing feet. No need buy new again and again. Just great-quality shoes and sandals – with a beautiful look that ages well to boot. “We don’t want to be pigeonholed as just eco geeks either,” the CEO adds. “The thing is, it’s fashionable to buy products with a clear, strong heritage. We make shoes that look great, and more and more people choose to buy eco produce. They’re shoes that withstand the test of time. We’re Kavat – we just make shoes. Simple as.”

View the full collection of children’s and adult shoes and find your nearest reseller on the website. Web: www.kavat.com Instagram: @kavat_sweden

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 47

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Top Swedish Fashion Brands 2018

Passion for leather With a fusion of traditional craftsmanship and modern-day requirements, Saddler Scandinavia creates leather bags, belts and wallets – stylish yet durable, for every day. By Malin Norman | Photos: Saddler Scandinavia

Set up in 1986, Saddler Scandinavia is one of the leaders in leather accessories. With genuine craftsmanship and a love for leather, the company designs, produces and sells high-quality accessories such as modern belts, bags, wallets and bracelets for men and women, for own brand SDLR as well as bespoke collections for fashion brands Oscar Jacobson, J.Lindeberg and Morris. Even though the company has been in the business for more than 30 years, it still has the same passion for leather and genuine craftsmanship, and is renowned for its high-quality materials and sleek Scandinavian look. “Our products make the owner look good, but they also have to feel good,” says assortment and PR manager Anne Ljungsvik. “We try to find practical solutions. For instance, in urban environments our consumers might want a bag that can be easily attached to their bike and fit a laptop and lunch box. They are functional, but all designs also have a modern twist.” Own brand SDLR introduces new designs twice per year, adding to its core range of 48 | Issue 111 | April 2018

popular products. The all-time bestseller is the tote bag Paris, which is available in five colours. “Everybody loves Paris, and yes, it’s really lovely!” Ljungsvik smiles.

Standing on three pillars

duction. All accessories are designed in Kungsbacka and produced by loyal partners. Saddler works closely with its suppliers and finds ways to continue the collaboration through careful processes and certifications. For instance, the belts are made with vegetable-tanned leather and the brand’s tannery in India has achieved certification from the Leather Working Group, LWG.

The company stands firmly on three value pillars. First and foremost, the genuine passion for leather runs through everything. “You can’t control leather,” says Ljungsvik. “All pieces of this material are different and look different, which makes it exciting to work with and also makes for more personal products. Leather ages beautifully, if you care for it properly.” The second pillar is fashion, or rather, slow fashion. Not religiously following the latest trends, Saddler creates timeless pieces that will look good in five or ten years’ time. The style is typical Scandinavian with sleek elegance, yet with elaborate details such as seams and buttons, adding value and giving the distinct feeling of an SDLR product. And finally, sustainability is key, and integrated into the responsible pro-

Web: saddler.com Facebook: SaddlerScandinavia Instagram: @saddlercom

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Top Swedish Fashion Brands 2018

International roots, Scandinavian identity Andrea Reschia was born and raised in Buenos Aires, but today she calls Stockholm her home. The designer has been shaped by two contrasting cultures, and now she lets them inspire and influence the shoe collections for her own label, Reschia – something that has proved to be a winning combination. By Sara Wenkel | Photos: Reschia

“A design-conscious person who expects a high level of quality and craftsmanship.” That is how Andrea describes the typical Reschia customer. The shoe label has become favoured among a devoted global following of people who care more about sustainability than seasonal trends. Through participation in high-profile events, such as fashion week shows and specialised trade shows, Reschia is slowly but surely breaking new ground around the globe. “Our wish is to reach all customers with a sensitivity similar to ours,” says Andrea. “We want to become their reference when it comes to designer shoes.”

The Rugged Collection In 2012, the designer founded and launched her eponymous shoe brand, and 2012 is also the year the Rugged Boot was released, as part of the brand’s first collection. This particular style would become a staple throughout Reschia’s history, and the solid foundation for the ever-growing Rugged Collection. The company’s commitment

to always deliver a sustainable product is naturally a part of the collection. “We have made this possible by using an always-contemporary design, extraordinary craftsmanship, and care put into every detail and each shoe,” Andrea explains. The original features from the first Rugged Boot will always be the base of the design, yet new style variations are thoughtfully added to each new launch in order to build an even stronger line-up. The brand is also inspired by art, music and fashion, and this year’s launch, due in May, will for the first time feature a collection of trainers designed in collaboration with artist Martin Bergström.

practical city block,” Andrea describes. But she believes that the quality of being modern is what unites the two, and that is also what the whole Reschia universe is about. “That is our creative space, and the energy we get from interacting with our community of wearers,” the designer concludes.

The quality of being modern Another recurring feature in Andrea’s design is the duality of her two natal cities – Buenos Aires and Stockholm – which keep influencing her. “Buenos Aires is sexy and elegant like no other city in the world, and Stockholm is minimalistic and functional yet stylish and innovative. Stockholm tends to be a

Andrea Reschia Photo: Matthias Huss

Web: www.reschia.com

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 49

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Top Swedish Fashion Brands 2018

The noble art of knitting At the heart of this family-run company, you will find a serious commitment to exceptional knitting. In fact, the whole business idea is to produce sustainable knitwear aimed at a global market. What is striking about Holebrook is the inclusion of a Scandinavian spirit into every single stitch.

knitting technique also plays a role. It may sound very obvious, but knitting is a craft where knowledge about both yarns and knitting is needed,” Malin Karstorp explains.

By Pia Petersson | Photos: Holebrook

In 1991, the current owners Peter and Tina Karstorp bought the knitting factory SEATrikå, first established in 1936, and renamed it Holebrook. The main inspiration for this married couple was the sea. This, combined with a dedication to high-quality knitwear, formed the foundation of what Holebrook has become. Since then, the company has grown and developed at a slow but steady pace. “We still find our inspiration along the coast, but our collections are broader and now contain knitted, woven as well as jersey garments. We strive to create welldesigned, durable fashion with a Scandinavian spirit,” sales and marketing assistant Malin Karstorp begins. This being a family business, Malin is the daughter of the founders. One of the first garments the Karstorps designed and produced when they first 50 | Issue 111 | April 2018

started out, has also turned out to become something of a trademark piece of clothing for them. Tina Karstorp had an idea born from time spent sailing. Experience had taught her that irrespective of how warm the weather is, at sea there always seemed to be a need for that extra jumper. However, she figured that the most important thing was that the garment could withstand the strong wind on the sea, and not necessarily how thick it was. Consequently, five knitted jumpers with a thin, windproof layer of fabric on the inside were designed, and have become something of a modern classic. “Two of these jumpers are still included in our originals collection, albeit in an updated version,” Malin Karstorp says. At Holebrook, knitting is taken very seriously indeed, and considered as the true craft that it is. “Above all, the yarn defines the quality of the garment; of course the

Why the name Holebrook? Simple: “It’s the product of a bottle of wine and a world atlas. Holebrook is a little town in Australia,” Malin Karstorp smiles.

Web: www.holebrook.com

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Top Swedish Fashion Brands 2018

Watches with values for the modern day A lot has happened since TRIWA – an acronym for transforming the industry of watches – was founded 11 years ago. Not only has the industry very much been transformed, but the brand has experienced global success and even branched out a bit. Scan Magazine spoke to co-founder and creative director Ludvig Scheja about the busy year ahead. By Linnea Dunne | Photos: TRIWA

April in particular is set to be an exciting month, as a watch made from melted-down illegal weapons is prelaunched. “When we heard about this metal being made, we saw a unique opportunity to make a watch with a difference – to add unexploited values that are about more than status,” says Scheja about Humanium Metal, a project initiated by IM Swedish Development Partner and GreatWorks. “They’re literally collecting illegal weapons from the streets, melting them down, creating this metal and selling it – and then the money goes back to the exposed countries. It’s like an eco-system of sorts.” The project naturally spoke to TRIWA, a brand known for thinking outside the box. From day one, their ambition was to move away from the outdated, masculine values traditionally associated with the

watch industry, at a time when mobile phones were providing time-telling functionality in everyone’s pockets. “Today, things are different again, and the watch has become more of an accessory with values quite far removed from old ideas of jewels and status. We’re seeing plenty of young people wearing watches again,” says Scheja, revealing that TRIWA is also currently working on watch straps with a built-in payment system, a project supported by innovation agency Vinnova and developed in collaboration with Fidesmo. “There are watches out there with builtin payment solutions, but none in the straps so far. This means that those with a different brand watch can complement it with TRIWA payment straps.” With headquarters in Stockholm, TRIWA is also behind 35 so-called city clocks in the Swedish capital. It comes as no sur-

prise, then, that the creative director and the designers at the brand’s creative studios, which is what they call their offices, are very much inspired by the city. “We’re naturally curious, but it’s also easier to be creative when you’re on the doorstep of such a buzzing arts and culture scene. There’s loads of great stuff happening on Stockholm’s fashion scene, and we’re now involved in Brilliant Minds Stockholm 2018 as well – a tech fair for the world’s leading tech entrepreneurs,” says Scheja. “It’s an exciting time ahead, with a number of new product launches later this year.”

TRIWA has flagship stores in Stockholm, Tokyo and Hong Kong. Web: www.triwa.com Facebook: triwaofficial Instagram: @triwa

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 51

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Top Swedish Fashion Brands 2018

The fitted denim vest Vibb.

Fashion with attitude Olars Ulla is a mix of romantic and rock-chic, stylish and rustic, feminine and comfortable. The clothing line is made from natural materials, to last over the years and be loved even more as time goes by. By Malin Norman | Photos: Olars Ulla

The Olars Ulla brand was originally set up in 1993 by Ulla Simonsson. The talented designer was born at Olarsgården, a family estate in southern Dalarna dating back to the 17th century. Here, she was raised in a farming culture with strong work ethics and a loyal community. This spirit of the traditional farming culture of working together towards a common goal remains integral to her brand, with fashionable garments instead of crops as the end result. The collection is a balanced mix of casual, rustic and stylish designs, in both muted and bold colours and patterns, with a comfortable yet feminine fit. Olars Ulla certainly stands out from the mainstream fashion brands and gives customers the opportunity to mix and match 52 | Issue 111 | April 2018

ative process. “I don’t follow trends,” she says. “Instead, I let the ideas come from within. I believe in listening to my own voice instead of looking at what’s currently in fashion.” No doubt, more exciting ideas are in the pipeline.

pieces in order to express their own personality and style.

Adding denim dreams The garments are made of natural materials of the highest quality, often with organic textiles such as linen and cotton. New this season is the addition of denim, making for an exciting yet balanced combination of countryside rustic and rockchic attitude. For instance, check out the cool, fitted denim vest called Vibb, which will look fabulous teamed up with a romantic, frilled skirt or dress. Clearly, Ulla follows her own path and likes to experiment with new fabrics and expressions, adding to her characteristic style. The designer explains that she is very much driven by intuition in her cre-

The collection from Olars Ulla is available in the brand’s six boutiques, via some 50 retailers in Sweden and around the world, as well as in the online shop.

Web: www.olarsulla.se Facebook: olarsulla Instagram: @olarsulla

FROM NORDIC LANDSCAPES SINCE 2004 | WWW.SANDQVIST.COM

Scan Magazine | Culinary Feature | Restaurant Rudolf Mathis

Seafood, sun and sea Lunch in the sun at seafood restaurant Rudolf Mathis, located at the scenic harbour of Kerteminde, gives you the very best of Danish summer at the sea. With its towering white-washed walls, black beams and world-class seafood, the awardwinning restaurant has become a traditional summer destination for many Danes. By Signe Hansen | Photos: Rudolf Mathis

For more than 30 years, Puk Larsen, owner and head chef at Rudolf Mathis, has served guests from near and far, a delicious menu of fresh, local fish prepared according to classic French traditions. With the menu changing with the local seasons, guests visiting during spring and summer are likely to find lots of delicious seafood plates as well as plaice, straight in from Kerteminde harbour, on the menu. “We continuously change our menu to match the seasonal products. That’s what we’ve always done, and it means that in the summer we will be serving a wide range of dishes with seafood and fresh, local vegetables. We 54 | Issue 111 | April 2018

have a lot of small producers in the surrounding area,” says Larsen. With the restaurant’s terrace stretching out over the water, guests can enjoy the seafood alongside the fresh smell of the sea, the sound of the water quietly twirling underneath, and the view of the local fishing boats arriving into and departing out of the small harbour.

Fresh seafood With Kerteminde harbour on the doorstep, it is natural that Rudolf Mathis sources most of its seafood from the surrounding waters. And, as a matter of fact,

it was the location more than anything that determined the restaurant’s identity. “I’ve always preferred working with fish, but the fact that we ended up an actual seafood restaurant had a lot to do with the location. It took a long time to get permission to build and then construct the restaurant, and even before we were finished, people and media had begun referring to it as ‘the seafood restaurant’, and that has just stuck,” Larsen explains. The food is served in set menus of two to four delicious dishes for lunch and three to five courses for dinner, with an optional matching wine menu. Though most guests come for the whole menu, you can also choose to just have a main course with a glass of chilled white wine in the sun.

Teamwork Rudolf Mathis might be located in a sea of blue, but its success has come from

Scan Magazine | Culinary Feature | Restaurant Rudolf Mathis

somewhere else. A native Kerteminder, Puk Larsen started Rudolf Mathis after eight years gathering experience at one of Denmark’s best restaurants, Kong Hans Kælder in Copenhagen. When returning to Kerteminde, the lack of quality restaurants in the beautiful area convinced him to set up Rudolf Mathis. “I never imagined that it would be as successful as it has eventually become, or that we would achieve the kind of gastronomic level that we have today. We have aimed to serve high-quality food since the beginning, but we have grown a lot, both gastronomically and with regards to our service,” says Larsen. “Obviously our location meant that we had to work really hard to attract people in the first couple

of years, but gradually it has become a place that people hear about and seek out themselves.” In the 33 years that have gone by since, Larsen has built an indisputable reputation as the chef and owner of one of Denmark’s best seafood restaurants. He has done so with the help of his wife, Ursula Plato, who is part of the efficient and service-minded group of waiting staff responsible for the friendly atmosphere, which Rudolf Mathis is also known for. “One of the reasons people come here is that we always do our very best to provide outstanding service. We love it when people come to try our restaurant, but we make our living from

people who come back, and that’s why it’s so important to us to always give people the best possible experience,” says Larsen. Facts: Rudolf Mathis is open for lunch and dinner Monday to Saturday (but closed in January and February). The restaurant is named after Puk Larsen’s grandfathers, Niels Mathis and Hans Rudolf Pedersen, who owned the fishing cottage previously on the site.

Web: www.rudolf-mathis.dk

Top left and right: With Rudolf Mathis’ seasonally changing menu, guests are sure to find a delicious assortment of fresh, local fish and vegetables on their plates. Bottom left: Puk Larsen, the owner and head chef of Rudolf Mathis, has become known for his continuously high level of gastronomy. Photo: Evan Frederiksen. Bottom right: Dinner outside at the classic seafood restaurant Rudolf Mathis in Kerteminde harbour is the epitome of Danish summer.

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 55

Scan Magazine | Culinary Feature | Stolt Bryggeri

Ulydig Saison, Smartblond, Lystig Lager and Energisk IPA.

Introducing: Stolt Bryggeri After going from brewer to owner of Stjørdalsbryggeriet, Mikael Slettedal wanted to bring the brewery to a new beginning, including a revamp of the brand, a name change and a makeover of the beers. He now proudly introduces the brand-new Stolt Bryggeri. By Ingrid Opstad and Line Elise Svanevik | Photos: Kristian Helgesen

The word ‘stolt’ means ‘proud’ in Norwegian, and it was this feeling Slettedal and his team wanted the brand-new image to portray. “With the name, we show the pride of everyone involved in the brewery: the suppliers, the partners and the employees – the fact that we are all proud of each other and passionate about creating something our local community can be proud of too,” he says. Communications agency Headspin helped bring the new brand to life. “By working closely with Stolt on designing their new identity, we have been able to develop a fresh, new look while preserving the brand essence. Our team, consisting of AD Luka Petric, copywriter Sara Husby and myself, are proud to have played a part in transforming a traditional brewery into a strong, up-and-coming beer brand,” says Headspin’s Saira Butt. 56 | Issue 111 | April 2018

Fresh start Slettedal’s passion for brewing started early. At the age of 25 he was brewing in pots and pans and started noticing the exciting new developments happening around him in the county of Trøndelag, where the brewery is based. “There is a long history of brewing here, and it’s easy to find inspiration. It is one of the best regions for malt in Norway, and there are amazing local ingredients available, especially for brewing,” says Slettedal. “What has inspired me, and what will inspire me looking forward, is the local competence and great local ingredients available.” Pouring his heart and soul into the business, Slettedal finds the beer industry incredibly interesting, yet demanding. “We need to be able to keep updated, and to challenge our customers. To come up with exciting beers while being creative

in the process,” he says. Stolt is determined to discover new flavours, use local ingredients and display a vibrant and adaptable approach to brewing. The team works closely with the suppliers to find the optimal taste. One of these suppliers is the start-up Bonsak Gårdsmalteri, which farms and malts barley for brewers such as Stolt. 100 years ago, malting and brewing based on own-grown grain was common

The launch event of the new Stolt Bryggeri.

Scan Magazine | Culinary Feature | Stolt Bryggeri

among the farmers in Trøndelag. The malt production has strong traditions and deep roots in this area, and by using these ingredients the customers will have the chance to drink locally sourced beer while keeping old traditions alive. “Thankfully, craft brewers are progressive towards innovation and new ideas, thus looking for malt that gives their beer new and unique flavours. Most brewers never get to meet the farmer or see where their grain is grown. This personal connection of people and provenance allows us to add value to passionate brewers and their end customers,” say Bodil Oust and Tyson Weaver, owners of Bonsak Gårdsmalteri.

New flavours With the new rebrand, Stolt launched new beers met by the local community with excitement and goodwill. Proud of the people and businesses that surround him, Slettedal aims to incorporate traces of local ingredients into the brews. “We have experimented with a lot of different

flavours. Recently, we created an interesting batch using local cucumber and another one with local raspberries,” he explains, adding that he wants a regional touch to each of the new beers. “We are keen to make refreshing and modern beers by using sour berries, coffee and chocolate. Coffee is something we have utilised in the past with an IPA, which was received with great success at a recent beer competition.” In addition to using local ingredients, Stolt has obtained a research grant from the government in collaboration with the Norwegian University of Science and Technology and another local brewery. This project involves researching local and historical yeast, which means that they will be using this ingredient in their brewing. Slettedal is particularly fond of good food and drinks. “I am the sort of guy who goes on holiday and comes back talking about the tastes I discovered instead of

what I did there,” he smiles. And it is this pleasure-seeking trait and passion along with the pride and expertise of his team that will help give Stolt a name for itself in the world of craft beer. Beers available: - American Wheat: A fresh wheat beer with American hops. - Session IPA: A hoppy beer with a low alcohol percentage. - Belgian Farmhouse Ale: Made with fresh apricot, which provides the beer with flavour. - Munich Helles: A light, easy-to-drink lager. Future beers include two coffeeinfused ales, a local-inspired beer with Norwegian grain and yeast, and a beer with fresh raspberries.

Web: www.stoltbryggeri.no Facebook: stoltbryggeri Instagram: @stoltbryggeri

Bonsåk Gårdsmalteri.

Mikael Slettedal proudly shows that the brewery is switching over to using cans for their beer.

Owner Mikael Slettedal inside the brewery.

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 57

Scan Magazine | Education Feature | YFU

An intercultural experience for life Understanding different cultures of the world is an important aspect of today’s society. That is why the organisation Youth for Understanding (YFU) over the years has helped more than half a million people broaden their horizons through various exchange programmes.

tribute to developing it,” says Juma, adding that the experience of an exchange programme lasts for much longer than just the time spent abroad.

By Nicolai Lisberg | Photos: YFU

“The students really learn something about themselves, and they often create friendships for a lifetime and go back to visit their host families. The programme is also a stepping-stone to becoming a volunteer to help other people gain the same experience. We have so many young people in our organisation, and we hope to create more YFU volunteers – not just customers, but young people with the same mindset as ours.”

If you want an experience that will change the way you see the world, help you become more independent, and create friendships for a lifetime, you might want to learn more about YFU. The organisation was founded in 1951 as a non-profit organisation based on the work of volunteers. “The fact that everything is done by volunteers separates us from other organisations. We make a virtue out of helping with everything from A-Z. We don’t want to make money on the trips – we only think about the quality. We take care of tickets and insurance; we prepare the young people before going abroad; we have delegated contacts communicating with them during their stay, and we arrange homecomings when they return, where we talk about everything they have 58 | Issue 111 | April 2018

experienced,” explains Roy Juma, chairman of YFU Denmark. The organisation has around 30 partner countries, and last year they sent just over 120 young people abroad and welcomed 60 people from other countries.

The need for world citizens Since the first YFU student from Denmark was sent abroad in 1961, many things have changed, but the mission for YFU remains the same. “It’s still about creating intercultural understanding. We aim to promote peace in the world, and young people are best fit to do so, as they tend to be more open-minded towards new cultures. The European migrant crisis and Brexit have only shown that intercultural understanding is more important than ever, and we want to con-

Web: www.yfu.dk Facebook: yfudanmark Twitter: @yfudanmark

Framework for life It takes people to build for people. At Aarstiderne Arkitekter we aim to design beautiful and sustainable conditions for people’s lives and social interaction. We create dynamic environments in the city and affect people’s opportunities for living and working, for learning and leisure – every aspect of our daily lives. To us, every project is an investment in the future. Our architects and consultants meet our client’s financial investment and fulfil the architectural ambition and quality of the project. We develop value-adding projects based on client - and user expectations and the character and potential of the location.

aarstiderne.dk

Scan Magazine | Cover Feature | Tove Styrke

Tove Styrke:

‘I call the shots’ Nine years have passed since Tove Styrke walked into a room to audition for Idol, with millions of Swedes watching at home. Juror Anders Bagge said that he had high expectations of her, but that she lived up to them – something many people can still relate to today, considering all that the artist has managed to achieve since then. Scan Magazine spoke to the Swedish singer about fame, female role models and finding her groove. By Linnea Dunne | Photos: Emma Svensson

Since her appearance on Idol, where she finished in third place, Styrke has been signed to Sony Music, released two albums, sold platinum in Sweden and toured the world. But the 25-year-old dispels the notion of fame as something that had to be managed carefully. “You have to remember that this is Sweden, which is pretty soft – it wasn’t a Britney Spears situation by any stretch of the imagination, and I’m grateful for that,” she says. “But then I’ve also made sure to take a lot of time for myself, time to grow up between busier work phases. I ended up with great people who I still work with today, even though it’s a bigger operation now.” For Styrke, taking time for herself did not mean doing something different or pausing the music work entirely, but rather taking a step back from the attention in order to look inward and focus properly on work. “I’ve been writing nonstop since the last record, but it’s more about giving myself the space to come up with strong ideas. I think it took a year before I ended up on the track I eventually went with for the new album, where I really felt like it clicked. In the end, I decided to really dig deep within myself in a personal way with this record,” she 60 | Issue 111 | April 2018

explains, adding that the process has to come from her, from within. “I call the shots. That’s how it has to be.”

Learning on the job On screen and on stage, Styrke oozes charisma and playful confidence, like a natural-born entertainer. Over the phone, she is more muted – realistic, perhaps, and down to earth. She talks about the songwriting craft as something she has grown into naturally, thanks to both support from and collaboration with professionals, as well as time and faith in her skills. It is not the kind of thing you read in a press release, but it is all the more believable and relatable for it. “My first album, which was all co-writes, was very much a learning process. I got to figure out how it works, how you make an album, what a producer really does and what the mixing and mastering is all about. It’s a whole job in itself, which is also part of my work,” she reflects. “What I do now is a result of everything I’ve learnt along the way. I had a clear vision of what I wanted it to sound like, who I wanted to work with and what I wanted to create. That was a big deal for me.” Album number three, Sway, is out this May, and Styrke is really excited. “I’ve

Scan Magazine | Cover Feature | Tove Styrke

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 61

Scan Magazine | Cover Feature | Tove Styrke

Name: Tove Anna Linnéa Östman Styrke Artist name: Tove Styrke Age: 25 From: Umeå, Sweden Breakthrough: Idol 2009, first album 2010. Achievements: Two solo albums, one of which sold platinum in Sweden. She was named Best Newcomer at P3 Guld in 2011, and White Light Moment was nominated as Song of the Year at the 2012 Grammisgalan. The singles White Light Moment and Borderline were both certified gold in Sweden. Tove Styrke’s new, third album, Sway, is out on 4 May.

no-brainer that it should be all women, and that’s that,” she explains. “It might sound like a small thing, but I’m definitely noticing a huge difference in being an artist in Sweden today. But I do long for the day when it’ll be easier to find women producers and technicians, women for mixing and mastering, all that. We’re getting there, but still today there’s always that last filter music goes through that’s almost always male.”

Never stop

been working on this for so long and it’s so close to my heart,” she says. “It’s a collection of love songs, about the pros and cons of being in love, mostly good vibes but a few sad songs too. It’s really important to me that at the heart of each song there are real feelings – I want to make music that makes you feel something, and when I’m walking around with music in the headphones, I want to listen to music that I can relate to. In some ways, this is the poppiest material I’ve ever made, but it’s deeply personal too.”

A woman in a man’s world Comparisons to Robyn do not seem too far-fetched, and the singer admits that she is flattered by them. At the same time, she does not really believe in comparisons too much. “People are best when they are as much of themselves as possible, when 62 | Issue 111 | April 2018

they get to be their own,” she says. Asked about influences and idols, she barely knows where to start and certainly not where to end – there are too many. “I love Britney, there’s always been something about Britney. She’s my pop princess. But there’s Beyoncé, Rihanna, Kylie… So many pop princesses! I’m obsessed with Camila Cabello right now.” There is little doubt that she has plenty of female role models, but her conscious effort to always support and highlight other women has not always been straight-forward. “The first time I said I wanted an all-female band, they came back to me and were like, ‘we can’t find any’. In the end I did – and what’s great to see is that a lot has happened just in the time I’ve been in the industry. Now when we’re putting together a band it’s a

In recent weeks, Styrke has been performing to arenas in the States, opening for Lorde on tour – a huge step in her career. Yet she is cautious when it comes to big plans. “I mean I must suffer from some sort of hubris, or I wouldn’t be doing this, but I think it’s important that you’re having fun and not doing stuff because you think one day you’re going to get huge,” she reflects. “I’ve been working really hard for many years now, and it feels like you’re constantly taking small, tiny steps forward – but it’s all just about small victories. I just want to enjoy what I do. I love this, being in London for press days, touring the US, hitting the studio and getting to know new people… There’s no end to it, no ceiling. I just want to keep doing what I’m doing, go everywhere, release more music, have fun and never stop.” Web: www.tovestyrkemusic.com Facebook: tovestyrke

Scan Magazine | Cover Feature | Tove Styrke

Photo: Gustav Wiking

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 63

OD K O R F e C MA I Sp AN EN G D OR OM FR l cia

Why the Danes have gone all in on organic Denmark, the world’s biggest per-capita consumer of organic products, is celebrating its love for all things organic on 15 April, also known as Organic Day. Scan Magazine decided to look at how the organic fairy-tale began and what it will take for it to reach its happy ending: a total conversion to organic farming. By Signe Hansen | Photos: Økologisk Landsforening

The smell of fresh grass, cows ecstatically leaping about, and children gasping in awe of the animals’ bouncing prowess – in Denmark, the day organic cows are let out to pasture is not just a joyous day for the cattle; it is a celebration of the country’s organic success story. With 11.5 per cent of Denmark’s total consumption being organic, the small nation has the world’s highest per-capita consumption of organic products. Helle Borup Friberg, CEO of Økologisk Landsforening (Organic Denmark), explains why she sees the current situation as a milestone in Denmark’s organic revolution: “Traditionally, organic consumption was mainly a thing among families 64 | Issue 111 | April 2018

with young children and in the big cities, but today, we see that more than half of all Danes all over Denmark buy organic every week. We think of that as a very important tipping point, because a lot of people just do what other people do.” Indeed, many within the organic industry see the Danes’ position as the world’s most pro-organic consumers, not as the end goal, but as a step towards a complete conversion to organic farming.

Once you go organic, you do not go back Just like any other good fairy-tale, the Danish organic adventure has had its ups and downs. Though the governmental-

ly certified Danish organic Ø-label was launched in 1989, in the early ‘90s a lot of organic milk was still being sold as regular milk due to a lack of demand for organic products. However, in the mid and late ‘90s, several supermarkets started intense marketing campaigns for organic products, and during the next decade, organic consumption began to steadily rise. “In order to succeed, you have to make sure that there is supply, but also demand. If you make the farmers convert and there is no market, they will suffer significantly,” stresses Friberg. “On top of that, you have to have the political will to make sure that grants are available to address some of the challenges, and a media effort to build and maintain consumer trust.” With all of these factors in place in Denmark, the organic revolution has gained impressive momentum. One reason is, says Friberg, that once people get started buying organic, they seldom

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Organic Food from Denmark

turn back. “Most people start with basic products such as oatmeal, eggs and milk, and eventually broaden it to a bigger range including meat and convenience food. But once they start their journey of awareness, they don’t go back; they keep moving up the ladder.”

Healthier animals When it comes to the question of why Danes choose to buy organic, many factors – on top of price and availability – play in. For some, especially families with young children, the fear of the ‘cocktail effect’ of the pesticides used in conventional farming is the main motivator. For others, it is ethical concerns, the desire for better animal welfare, or environmental concerns. The same reasons are behind many farmers’ choice to convert to organic. When organic farmer Bjarne Krog converted his farm, Krogagergård, in 1995, the concern about pesticides left in products, the effect of pesticides on the groundwater and his teenage children’s growing awareness of environmental issues, were just some of his reasons –

and he never regretted it. “It’s given me great satisfaction to see the increased life on the land. Another effect I immediately noticed was that the veterinarian bills were cut in half, primarily because the animals had more space. We didn’t have anywhere near the problems with airway diseases we had before,” he explains. “The whole process has been exciting; there are never two years that are alike.”

Greater biodiversity Research compiled from all of the EU shows that biodiversity increases with around 30 per cent in organically farmed environments, and this is one of many reasons why Danmarks Naturfredningsforening (the Danish Society for Nature Conservation) is one of the leading advocates of organic farming. Ten years ago, the organisation set out its agricultural policy with the aim of a 100 per cent conversion to organic agriculture within 30 years. Senior agricultural policy officer, Rikke Lundsgaard, explains: “Denmark is a really intensively farmed country; 55 per cent of all land is arable and gets ploughed, manured and sprayed every

year. This is by far the highest percentage in the EU, and it has a huge impact on our biodiversity and on the water quality of both surface and ground water. This is why it’s really important how the farming is done, and organic is the gentlest way. You get a high-value agricultural production, but also higher biodiversity, better water quality and a richer environment all over.” It is estimated that around ten per cent of all Denmark’s farming is today organic, and Lundsgaard believes that the aim of a total conversion is within reach. “We envisage that all arable land will be organic in 25 to 30 years. It is a realistic scenario because the conversion rate at the moment is high – more than ten per cent a year.” Organic Day on 15 April is a yearly event that takes place on various organic farms all over Denmark. For more information, see the website.

Web: www.økodag.dk

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 65

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Organic Food from Denmark

Svane’s fruit and vegetable drinks can be enjoyed hot, cold and in a range of delicious dishes.

The taste of organic summer An exquisite summer drink, an after-school juice, or an energising ginger shot – with its wide variety and original blends, Svane’s juices are not just for breakfast. For more than 20 years, the family-owned Danish company has been dedicated to the development of all-organic juices and cordials. By Signe Hansen | Photos: Svane

It all started with an organic cranberry drink, developed for a doctor and a friend of the Svane family. Then followed an elderflower cordial made on an old family recipe, and, in 1995, Poul and Birgit Svane founded Svane. Despite its origin well before Denmark’s organic boom, the company has always been 100 per cent organic. Now run by the founders’ daughter Naja Svane and her husband, it continues in the same vein. “Back then, there wasn’t a lot of organic produce, and we started out driving around in a small van to just four stores in Copenhagen,” 66 | Issue 111 | April 2018

explains Naja Svane, who has been a part of the company since its origin. “But my parents’ way of thinking was a bit different; for them, eating organic was a way of taking better care of themselves, a way to avoid all of the unknown substances used in the production of regular fruit and vegetables.” The strong focus on everyday health and nutrition still prevails in all of Svane’s drinks. But in more recent years, some of the new taste variations offered in stylish glass bottles have also contributed

to their appearance as alcohol-free alternatives on the menu of a number of gourmet restaurants.

The taste of spring Among Svane’s newest additions are four seasonal fruit drinks sold in quaint glass bottles with labels made by the Danish artist Annette de Jonquieres. The blends represent the flavours of each season, with the taste of spring blended of apple, rhubarb, vanilla and mint, and summer of elderflower, pear, apple, ginger and citrus yuzo. The seasonal blends can be enjoyed in a number of ways: as a refreshing mixer for a welcome drink, as a non-alcoholic alternative to wine, or to add extra taste to food and cakes, explains Svane. “We have just developed a small cookbook together with Thomas Alcayaga [profes-

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Organic Food from Denmark

sional Danish food blogger], and in this we present a range of ideas for cakes and food using our juices. Initially, the idea originated because I really dislike wasting food, and I thought, ‘why don’t we show people how they can use that last little drop of juice to add some extra taste to their dinner?’.” Several of the new seasonal drinks have been nominated for consumer awards.

Health and taste When developing new blends for its all-organic assortment, Svane often works with the many suggestions sent in by loyal customers and Svane fans. However, when creating and testing new recipes, two things are always key: taste and health. “We source our ingredients

from all over the world. It’s the taste and what that taste adds to a specific blend that decides which ingredients we select,” stresses Svane. “An orange is not just an orange – there are so many different kinds and ways to combine them, and the same goes for ginger; there are a lot of different types with different tastes and qualities.” As one of the first companies in Denmark to start using ginger in its juices, Svane uses the health-giving root in several of its drinks, but especially so in its three powerful ginger shots. Nominated as Food Product of the Year by the Danish health store chain Helsam last year, the shots are composed of ginger sorts selected for their quality and taste. “We only

use ingredients that we truly feel we can put our name to. It has to be organic, but the taste also has to be there – it’s about quality,” stresses Svane and rounds off: “During our years in the industry, the market for organic food has grown bigger and bigger, but it’s important to stress that organic food shouldn’t be just about making something that’s organic, but about making something that’s organic and of an equal or better quality to the alternative. That’s always been our guiding principle and our trademark, so our customers don’t have to worry about neither taste nor quality when picking up our products.” Web: www.svanetrading.dk

Founder Birgit Svane.

Founder Poul Svane.

Svane’s four organic Årstiderne fruit drinks are mixed to create the taste of spring, summer, autumn and winter.

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 67

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Organic Food from Denmark

Bringing the whole family together around the open fire, the Bon-fire kitchen is the quintessence of ‘hygge’.

On fire A crackling bonfire, a big pot bubbling away, and the whole family gathered to take part – it is no wonder that the stylish and functional Bon-fire kitchen has struck a chord with the ‘hygge’ loving Danes, and now the Bon-fire is taking on the rest of the world too. By Signe Hansen | Photos: Bon-fire

As summer is timidly approaching, many of us cannot wait for that first outdoor dinner. In Denmark, a perhaps surprisingly barbecue-fanatic nation, one of the hottest new contraptions for outdoor cooking is the mobile Bon-fire kitchen. As the name reveals, the Bonfire kitchen is not a grill but a range of equipment for cooking on open fire. Developed by two friends, designer and product developer Torben Eriksen and chef René Stage, the Bon-fire kitchen is the quintessence of ‘hygge’. “What we wanted to create was that feeling of ‘hygge’ and togetherness you have when sitting around a bonfire. Unlike gas or coal grills, where you can’t really see anything, the Bon-fire kitchen creates that special atmosphere,” explains Stage. “This also means that it’s a much 68 | Issue 111 | April 2018

more inclusive way of cooking. When we first tried it, we experienced that the whole family got involved, the kids were gathering to stir the pot and sit at the fire, whereas when barbecuing, they usually just come over to get their sausage.”

buns, grill the sausages, bake pancakes and make popcorn, and the kids can bake their own bread on sticks,” says Stage. “But at the same time, you can also cook a complete gourmet dinner – on our website, for instance, we have a recipe for a delicious risotto made with grilled jumbo prawns.” That the Bon-fire kitchen can match even the best grill is supported by the fact that the makers have won several prizes with the Bon-fire kitchen at the Danish BBQ Championships.

Since the launch of Bon-fire in 2006, its popularity has quickly grown among barbecue-loving northerners, and the kitchen has been featured on several national TV shows. Fully equipped with pots, pans and, in the just-launched cast-iron edition, a grill, the kitchen allows for a wide range of cooking. “What is so great about it is that you can, for example, make an entire children’s birthday party centred around the Bon-fire kitchen; you can make the hot chocolate over the fire, warm the

Web: www.bon-fire.dk

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Organic Food from Denmark

Quality wine at affordable prices No more choosing a wine based on how pretty the label is – Mevino is aiming to provide the Danes with quality wine at affordable prices. By Nicolai Lisberg | Photos: Mevino

If you like wine but never really know which one to choose, you might want to take a closer look at Mevino. They are specialists when it comes to wine, and they have even made a pre-selection so that you are always guaranteed a quality product.

wine regions in Europe. Many of Mevino’s wines are organic, and in addition to choosing from the varied selection of wines on their website, you can also sign up for a subscription that will get you different kinds of wine, of a type to your liking, delivered to your door every month.

“We spend so much time thinking about quality when it comes to food, so why not do the same with wine? For some reason, wine has been a bit neglected, and that’s a real shame. I’m hoping to raise awareness of what people are drinking, and to raise the general level of quality when it comes to wine consumption,” says Stina Callesen, owner of Mevino.

Wine tasting

Callesen founded the company in 2017, having spent over ten years building relationships with small and local vineyards in some of the most recognisable

Other than providing flexible solutions for you to choose between two and six bottles of wine per month, Mevino also offers wine tasting arrangements for companies as well as private parties. “I really enjoy travelling around and arranging the tastings, and it’s also a great way to meet the customers,” says Callesen, adding: “It’s another attempt to raise the level. At most wine tastings, you are served some sausages and cheese on a platter, and that’s about it. I adapt our tastings to the wishes of the customer, with six different

wines and up to seven different kinds of food and delicatessen goods. It’s a holistic experience, and hopefully it will make people aware that the quality of the wine really matters,” says Callesen, who uses food at the tastings that can be bought from her web shop as well. Stina Callesen.

Web: www.mevino.dk Facebook: Mevinoanno2017

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 69

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Organic Food from Denmark

Hanegal = no nitrite, no tricks Fie Graugaard, co-founder of the Danish organic meat producer Hanegal, tells Scan Magazine why her company has become an advocate against the use of nitrites. Translation: Louise Older Steffensen | Photos: Hanegal

“Hanegal is 100 per cent organic and has been for the 25 years it’s been servicing the Danish nation,” Graugaard proudly declares. Most of Hanegal’s assortment is meat-based, and it includes just the kinds of cured meats and other treats that Danes know and love. Their consumers’ favourites are liver paté, salami, barbeque sausages and bacon, and vegan paté.

Organic for 25 years In 1992, Graugaard and her co-founder Ulrich Kern-Hansen decided that all their products should be produced without additives and with complete honesty regarding contents and ingredients – no nitrite, no dodgy additives. “Most conventional meat products in the shops contain an array of additives, including nitrite, which is carcinogenic,” Graugaard explains. “Organic food stuffs may contain fewer additives, but nitrite is still allowed in organic meat products according to the EU’s regulations on organic farming – but not at Hanegal!” 70 | Issue 111 | April 2018

Graugaard continues: “Nitrite’s link to cancer has been known about for ages. In modern food production with a cold chain lasting all the way from the farm to the consumer, we don’t need the preservative properties of nitrite. The risk of cancer is much greater today than the risk of botulism, which could have been a problem many years ago.”

Do lunch meats have to be bright pink? Today, food producers only use nitrite because it gives the meat a plump, pink colour. The meat industry is afraid to lose out on sales if their ham is not pink enough, but Hanegal has made it their mission to let consumers know that meat products are naturally a greyish-pink colour, that bologna sausage and bacon do not have to be bright pink to be healthy and highquality – quite the opposite, in fact. Once upon a time, almost all Danish Vienna sausages were bright red. Today, most people are aware that this is unnatural and that the red sausages are full

of food dye. “We want cured meats to go through that same process: bright pink salami and ham should send alarm bells ringing. Our children should not grow up believing that excessively pink meats are superior. There is absolutely no reason to make people ill for no reason.”

Meat Lobby – Big Business Against Health In 2016, Hanegal was contacted by Cash Investigation, a French television news show looking to make a documentary on nitrite. The only entirely nitrite-free food producer they could find was Denmark’s Hanegal. The subsequent documentary, which features Ulrich Kern-Hansen and Hanegal’s products, has been shown in France, Belgium, Switzerland, Sweden and Germany. “We’ve been emboldened by the many consumers who’ve contacted us to voice their support of our fight against the unnecessary use of carcinogenic nitrite since its launch,” Graugaard adds. The documentary, Meat Lobby – Big Business Against Health has been translated into English and German and is available on YouTube. Web: www.hanegal.dk

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Fun and functional furniture for kids It is a known fact that children today spend a lot of time in front of screens. Because of the minimal time used for physical activity, their basic motor skills are declining – something Gymi Furniture founder and head designer Christina Nurmi wanted to change. Her passion for the wellbeing of kids and teens was the driving force behind the brand, created to motivate children to move naturally and learn different skills along the way. By Ingrid Opstad | Photos: Lilli Nurmi, Gymi Furniture

It all started in 2008 when Nurmi founded her company Gymicom Ltd and Gymi Kids’ and Teens’ Health Club. With a background as a gymnast, she wanted to guide young people into the world of movement by teaching them new skills and getting them motivated to move without it being a competition. The brand grew and today there are three clubs in the Helsinki region and one in Valkeakoski, Finland. Gymi is now a franchise concept, and the first Gymi outside Finland will be opening in Norway this year. 72 | Issue 111 | April 2018

“I had many parents and kids who loved the health club come up to me and ask how they could recreate it at home. As a result, we created Gymi Furniture, a set of multi-functional and activating furniture suited for kids of all ages, to bring the joy of motion into not only homes but also schools and other public places,” says Nurmi. As is common in Scandinavian design, form meets function also in Gymi Furniture. The design is clear-cut and

simple. “We have a summer house by the lake Saimaa, and the beautiful lake area as well as the Finnish birches have inspired me. My children have been a major influence and inspiration too. I have designed the furniture together with my husband Jiri Nurmi, and our daughter Lilli and son Veeti have been giving their priceless opinions along the way,” Nurmi smiles.

Furniture for public spaces Because of the high quality and multifunctionality of the furniture, Gymi Furniture is perfect for public places. New learning environments are made to inspire children and to activate them. In Finland, you can already find the furniture in a variety of schools and kindergartens. “We know that sitting in chairs is bad for our health, and that movement enhances learning. Our furniture replac-

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Made in Finland

es old-school desks, tables and chairs. You sit in natural positions on the floor or do your math standing on a balance cushion,” says Nurmi. Physical activity has a great impact on the brain. Movement not only enhances cognitive learning and concentration in class but makes learning and doing much more fun. That is why the furniture is so well-suited to learning environments such as nurseries and schools. The products can be used to furnish everything from classrooms in schools to corridors in kindergartens. The furniture changes into a motor skill track for play or parkour when the teachers say so. The furniture range is made of Finnish wood and consists of different items such as wall bars, boxes, planks, ladders, and bars. By combining these different elements almost like Lego pieces, you can build various solutions to benefit different needs. In addition to the wooden fur-

niture, Gymi Furniture also provides soft equipment and custom-made solutions such as metal rack systems, which can be combined with the wooden pieces in the collection.

your motor skills, sense of balance and body control, and at the same time, your self-confidence and self-esteem develop,” she explains.

Natural way to move

Gymi Furniture is also available for private homes. The products can be shipped all over the world. In addition to the pieces used in public spaces, the collection consists of wall-bar beds, which won the public vote in the Finnish Sport Product of the Year competition last year. An important guideline in producing the items is sustainability. “As a counteraction to our disposable way of life, I wanted to create furniture that will last for generations,” says Nurmi.

Gymi Furniture is made for movement, exercise and play. It is easy to play around and change the setting, giving kids space for free play and creativity. “We have lost touch with the natural way to move. It is important that we let the kids learn new skills by jumping, running, climbing, hanging, swinging and trying new tricks freely,” says Nurmi. She believes that our task as adults is to create an environment where an active way of life is possible. “When moving on the furniture, the children automatically or with little guidance move on all four limbs, on both hands and feet, doing bear walk or crab walk, and are active in organic ways. Doing tricks on the bars and planks improves

Furniture also for private homes

Web: www.gymi.co/furniture/ Webshop: www.gymi.fi/shop/en/ Facebook: gymifurniture Instagram: @gymi_furniture Twitter: @gymi4all

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 73

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Made in Finland Artwork by Mira Mallius.

Moomin artwork by Tove Jansson.

Artwork by Pia Ettala.

A paradise for paper lovers Whether you are looking for a beautiful letterpress greeting card, an inspiring notebook, a pretty postcard or a Moomin poster true to the original design by Tove Jansson, you can find it at Putinki. By Ingrid Opstad | Photos: Putinki

Helsinki-based Putinki is a true paradise for anyone who wants to indulge in the world of paper. With a passion for creating products that bring together Finnish design, excellent materials and premium-quality printing, Putinki has served paper products to paper lovers ever since 1973. At the heart of their production are two old letterpress printing machines, giving an exquisite and distinctly hand-made feel to their collection of beautifully letter-pressed greeting cards, postcards, planners, and calendars. “We have an in-house team of illustrators creating unique artwork, but in addition to our own production we also act as an importer for many prominent brands within the card and stationery industry, including Roger la Borde, Nuuna, Lagom Design, and Busy B among many others,” says managing director Anu Hartonen. She 74 | Issue 111 | April 2018

is proud to be stocking a great selection of contemporary paper products that always leaves her customers smitten.

tomers love paper. Some collect postcards to have on the wall while others have a fascination with notebooks, and we are so happy to see that paper is having such a huge comeback.” Putinki will be present at the PG Live fair, a large show dedicated to greeting cards, on 5-6 June in London.

With two paper shops located in Helsinki, both with an old-fashioned paper shop feel about them yet with a modern twist, Putinki has become a household name in Finland. “Our shop in Töölö is actually the oldest paper shop in town, and it has been at the same spot for decades. Here, as well as in our new store in Ullanlinna, we have combined the old-fashioned interior style with our new and fashionable paper products,” says Hartonen. “We see a huge demand for paper-based products such as cards, planners and writing paper. There is a new trend of journalling, and when people need to plan their life they are drawn to physical paper rather than having everything in the cloud,” Hartonen explains. “Our cus-

Photo: Nelli Päiväläinen Photography

Web: www.putinki.fi Facebook: paperikauppaputinki Instagram: @putinkihelsinki

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Made in Finland

Urban living in Finland means co-existing with nature.

Misty fog in April.

Forget me not in May.

Embracing the nature There is a tiny forest in an urban suburb of Helsinki, just behind the apartment building where graphic designer and illustrator Susanna Sinivirta lives. To get fresh mushrooms or bilberries, she only needs to step out, walk around the corner and pick them. This is city life in Finland.

Pieces of nature The month-themed Seasons’ Embrace wallpapers have been awarded the Design from Finland mark as a recognition of unique Finnish design.

By Taina Värri | Photos: Seasons’ Embrace

The same way Sinivirta picks berries in the woods, she plucks ideas and takes photos to inspire her designs. The four seasons of Finland are sometimes a real challenge, but Sinivirta challenges the nature back and embraces the moment. She turns the changing seasons, rain and shine, into wallpaper prints with a signature piece for each month.

Bring home some forest A nature lover as the designer is, her Seasons’ Embrace wallpapers are printed with water-based inks and dyes on safe polyester. There are no phthalates, nor PVC or other harmful substances in

her art, and there is a paper-based option also available upon special request. You can safely bring home a small piece of nature and breathe freely with a clear conscience. Susanna Sinivirta wants her collection to grow naturally. There are currently six different custom-made prints available: October, November, December, January, April and May. They are available in rolls, sheets or squares and can be used as wallpaper, drawer liners, shelf liners, or cut-and-stick wall decals. Moreover, they are convenient in crafting and other home decoration projects.

Not everyone has a wilderness in their backyard, but anyone can get a small piece of forest-themed wallpaper to enhance their walls. You do not even have to leave your sofa. Sinivirta also sells posters and postcards in her webshop. Susanna Sinivirta created a line of wallpapers for every season.

Web: www.sinisusa.com Instagram: @seasonsembrace

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 75

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Made in Finland

Happiness from within Nordic Fit Mama gives mothers a centralised online platform for information relating to pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum life. Working with a number of specialists, including midwives, nutritionists and sexual therapists, Nordic Fit Mama is able to offer mothers a range of advice and information, and guide them on their journey to wellness. By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Kasakkamedia

Founder Riina Laaksonen is a personal trainer specialised in pregnancy exercise, as well as a nutrition and life coach. “As well as a personal trainer, I’m also a mum to three active boys. Health and wellness have always been an important part of my life, but after having my two youngest children in quick succession, I felt like a stranger in my own body, and I found I was no longer able to do the same things as before my pregnancies. My posture was different, my breathing was shallow and I suffered from backaches,” she says.

Healing safely Laaksonen believes that certain issues, such as urinary incontinence and back aches, are often not spoken about after 76 | Issue 111 | April 2018

giving birth. “Safe exercise during pregnancy and after childbirth is so important, and I want to share my knowledge with other mums and help them with issues such as back aches and urinary incontinence, which can be debilitating and embarrassing conditions, especially when dealing with a young baby,” she says. About a third of mothers end up with diastasis recti, the separation of abdominal muscles, within a year of giving birth – and this is what Laaksonen suffered with too. “It’s easy to cause permanent damage and make the separation worse with the wrong kinds of moves. Despite my job as a personal trainer, I had never heard of abdominal separation, and I ended up injuring myself with the wrong kinds

of exercises. That’s why I want to teach other mothers how to get back into shape safely,” she explains. One of the courses, titled Safe and Strong, focuses on strengthening abdominal and pelvic floor muscles with safe and gentle training. “A woman’s post-partum body is fragile, and recovering from childbirth takes time, so all our exercises are designed with that in mind,” says Laaksonen. The five-week course is also designed to give new mothers energy, as a newborn baby is likely to take up a lot of it. All exercises in Safe and Strong have been designed to fix diastasis recti, and are also suitable after a caesarean section. “Our online courses are ideal for busy mothers. You’ll receive an email from your coach every weekday, and I’ll gently guide you towards the stronger version of your core and yourself. Each exercise is explained with written, picture or video instructions, and will take ten to 15 minutes to complete each day,” she explains. “There’s also the option to join a dis-

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Made in Finland

cussion group with fellow course mates – and if you have questions, a specialist pregnancy and maternity exercise coach is at hand to answer them.”

Offering overall wellness The months after giving birth can be difficult emotionally and physically, and Nordic Fit Mama focuses on an overall sense of wellness in mothers. Laaksonen wants to share information so that mums can learn about the changes happening in their bodies, and understand their bodies better in order to feel better about themselves. “With Nordic healthcare systems being hailed as some of the best in the world, I want to share this knowledge,” she says. Laaksonen believes that, thanks to the right kind of exercises, she has been able to restore her body to the same condition it was in before her pregnancies. “I’m happy and energetic, and most importantly, I feel good in my own body, and feel like I can trust it. This also gives me the confidence to take on everyday challenges that are unpredictable, as often happens in a family with young children,” she laughs. There are currently four courses in Finnish and one course in English. Recently, Nordic Fit Mama was given the Design from Finland mark, which is awarded to brands that showcase Finnish excellence. What makes Nordic Fit Mama unique is that all of the exercise videos are filmed outside, in beautiful Finnish nature. “It was important for me that our exercise videos wouldn’t be filmed in a studio, and I wanted to show the beautiful sunshine and nature that’s part of the Finnish summer,” says Laaksonen. “So far, we’ve helped thousands of women, and 99 per cent of those who have taken part in our course have said that they would recommend us to their friends. I want to help women and mothers to start exercising safely, offer them as much information as possible and guide them to move comfortably, feel good and enjoy life to the fullest,” she concludes. Web: www.nordicfitmama.fi and www.nordicfitmama.com

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 77

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Made in Finland

From street lighting to offices and sports halls, Greenled covers everything from single products to the management and execution of larger-scale lighting projects.

Lighting the way From street lighting to supermarkets and offices, Gleenled has been providing energy-efficient and environmentally friendly lighting solutions to businesses and the public sector since 2010. As a leading supplier of all-inclusive LED lighting solutions in Finland, no job is too big or too small for Greenled’s expert knowledge. By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Greenled

Employing around 100 people, Greenled is by no means an industry giant when it comes to size, but is more than equipped to be able to compete with others on a global scale. “We often find that big corporations tend to favour doing business with other big, global companies, but as a smaller company, we’re able to control all stages of production easily. No need to wait for a shipment for weeks on end – we are able to tend to our clients instantly,” explains Pertti Tahvanainen, Greenled’s managing director. One of Greenled’s core values is sustainable development, and the company’s production is solely based in Finland, meaning that the company can easily trace the origin of all materials used. “81 per cent of all components used in our products come from Finland. This means that we’re able to react quickly and vouch for our products’ quality, as 78 | Issue 111 | April 2018

well as their sustainability and recyclability,” says Tahvanainen. What makes Greenled unique is that with a single contract, they cover all their clients’ needs. “For indoor lighting, we offer a turnkey approach: from the initial design process to production and installing and long-term maintenance, we take care of everything – allowing our customers to focus on their business without unnecessary worries,” Tahvanainen states. By offering customers long-term solutions, Greenled is able to maximise energy savings and save clients money in the long-run. “By focusing on high-quality lighting solutions, we are able to cut down on the products’ lifespan costs, which saves money in the bigger picture. Our customers notice that savings start to accumulate from their first electricity bill onwards,” says Tahvanainen.

In addition to great energy savings, the company strongly believes that correctly chosen, smart lighting brings a wide range of added value to a business. “Our high-quality solutions improve occupational safety and efficiency, add comfort and boost sales, and take energyefficiency to a whole new level,” says Tahvanainen. “One of our clients was able to increase production by 28 per cent after we had designed their lighting. We have a strong track-record, and our satisfied customers and excellent references speak for themselves and are a reflection of our expertise.”

Greenled’s managing director, Pertti Tahvanainen.

Web: www.greenled.com

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Made in Finland

Sustainable bow ties designed for the future For years, industrial designer Hermanni Vuorisalo dreamt of designing a product that represented his values. In 2016, when he turned 30, he had the idea of making wooden bow ties for his birthday party. That idea turned into a successful business and a full-time profession for the Finnish designer.

ness is growing. I have agents in France, Italy and Japan, and the feedback has been really good. I hope to go global by the end of the summer,” he smiles.

By: Åsa Hedvig Aaberge | Photos: Mikael Rydenfelt

The designer puts the success down to society’s awakening to the importance of looking after the environment. “The SÖÖR bow ties are different and unique, and customers love the idea of good ethics, natural values, sustainability and recycling. It is forward-thinking, and my customers are conscious about the future,” says Vuorisalo.

“I was about to turn 30 and realised I hadn’t made any of my own products yet. I wanted to design something for myself and the celebration, and bow ties came to mind. The bow ties already on the market were so simple, so I wondered why there were no interesting, different ones,” says Vuorisalo.

last and handcrafted from quality materials. In addition to wood, the SÖÖR bow ties are decorated with top-quality, leftover fabric from local tailors in Finland. “The 3D motion and the wood make the bow ties unique, as well as the fact that they are sustainable and handmade in Finland,” says the designer.

The designer started to create bow ties made out of wood, and the SÖÖR bow tie was born. Because of its sustainability and quality, wood has always been a material Vuorisalo prefers to work with. “I started designing with my own values in mind, sustainability being key. I made some prototypes and it kicked off. The bow ties I originally made for myself, my friends and family, suddenly became a business,” he says.

The sustainable principles drove Vuorisalo to make use of as much of the wood as possible. From the leftover wood from the bow ties, he creates earrings. “Out of one bow tie, comes one pair of earrings. For example, couples who are getting married get a bow tie for the groom and matching earrings for the bride, carved out from the same piece of wood,” the designer explains.

Vuorisalo’s values and ethics are strong. All his products are eco-friendly, made to

After a few years of developing the products, Vuorisalo is now ready to launch his products in shops worldwide. “The busi-

Wood carved earrings.

Web: www.hermannivuorisalo.fi

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 79

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Made in Finland

A liquorice factory fuelled by love From pharaohs in ancient Egypt to Alexander the Great, liquorice has been used by great kings and leaders for millennia. The Kouvola liquorice factory has been producing handmade sweets since 1945 – but you will not find long production lines or heavy machinery here, as the liquorice is still prepared by hand, using traditional methods. By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Kouvolan Lakritsi Oy and Antti Karppinen

though the recipe was slightly altered in 1960 by an English liquorice specialist, H. Knoch. Now, the factory has 22 employees, and everything from the very beginning to the packing of the end product is done by hand. “Mr. Knoch made the recipe even better, and we pride ourselves on preparing all our liquorice using traditional methods. Our liquorice is cooked on a stove, by real people,” says Nisula.

The story of Kouvola liquorice initially began in Vyborg in 1906, but after two world wars, the company was set up in Kouvola. “In 1945, after the war, Finland was struggling with food shortages and rationing, but the government granted the Kouvola liquorice factory owners a small batch of ingredients to allow them to make liquorice, which was a luxury at a time when even basic goods were being rationed – and the rest is history,” says Timo Nisula, the factory owner.

Fuelled by love (and bio gas)

Since then, Kouvola liquorice has been produced by hand, using traditional methods and a traditional recipe, al-

The secret to tasty liquorice lies in the way it is prepared. The Kouvola liquorice team is very proud to be using good-quality ingredients and cooking their product

80 | Issue 111 | April 2018

with care and a great deal of love, and they believe it trickles down to how the finished product tastes. “As well as the ingredients, we take great care to make sure that our liquorice stays fresh. That’s why we make sure that our delivery times are as short as possible, and the liquorice leaves our factory almost as soon as it’s ready – which is what makes it soft and tasty,” the factory owner explains. In 2015, the factory switched to using renewable Finnish bio gas in their production – the first sweet factory in the world to do so. “We want to do our share to promote the health of our environment, and this move has helped to significantly reduce our factory’s carbon footprint,” Nisula says proudly.

Creating edible design The company has been the first in many regards: they were the first to produce liquorice beer, and they were the first

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Made in Finland

to send liquorice to the stratosphere. In 2016, Kouvola liquorice teamed up with renowned Finnish designer Eero Aarnio, who is probably best known for the Ball Chair he designed in the 1960s. As a result of the collaboration, the world’s first design sweet, titled Ghost due to its shape, was born. “I strongly believe that Finland can compete on the world arena of design along with other Nordic countries, and we wanted to create something unique and quirky that could also do well abroad. We wanted to create edible design, and we are very proud of the end result,” says Nisula. This spring, the liquorice factory will be launching a fashion product: a women’s

handbag, filled with liquorice. “It’s the perfect gift: a stylish, golden bag filled with liquorice,” Nisula laughs. The factory also sells personalised containers of liquorice. “They’re excellent for making sweet impressions on colleagues, companies, friends or family.” A well-known television programme voted Kouvola liquorice as the best liquorice in Finland in 1995 – and they have held the title firmly since then. “Of course, taste is completely subjective, but we’ve heard several people state that even though they don’t usually like liquorice, they love ours, so clearly we’re doing something right – and differently to other liquorice companies. Many of our cus-

tomers say that our liquorice reminds them of their childhood, and that’s what keeps us going and warms our hearts,” says Nisula. “The most important thing for us is to pass on our knowledge of traditional liquorice making to the next generation, and to be able to share our product with the world. We’re not a massive-scale producer, but we have a lot of soul. Making the best-tasting liquorice possible is a matter of heart for us,” the liquorice factory owner concludes.

Web: www.kouvolanlakritsi.fi

Kouvolan Lakritsi and renowned Finnish designer Eero Aarnio teamed up to design the world’s first design sweet, titled Ghost.

Timo Nisula, owner of the Kouvola liquorice factory.

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 81

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Made in Finland

Sustainable jewellery with an urban attitude Design Jaaza Kokko is a sustainable Finnish jewellery brand with an urban attitude. Each design is made as organic as it can be, with recycled or waste material used, or Finnish wood. Eija Kokko is a firm believer that if you create something new, it must be eco-friendly – otherwise she sees no point in creating it at all. By Heidi Kokborg | Photos: Jaaza Kokko

Kokko founded Design Jaaza Kokko almost by accident when she was still studying design at Lahti University of Applied Sciences. “We had an art exhibition called Betula Pendula – Inspired by Birch, where I designed jewellery from birch. People wanted to buy the pieces, and that’s how Design Jaaza Kokko took shape,” she smiles.

ucts. If I am going to do this, it has to be eco-friendly; otherwise, it would be better not to do it at all. That’s why I use recycled or waste material, so that my jewellery can be as eco-friendly as possible.” You can buy Design Jaaza Kokko at Helsinki Vantaa airport, near gate 28.

graphic and inspired by so many places and people,” she says. What really sets Design Jaaza Kokko apart is the fact that Kokko cares deeply about the environment and our nature. “One thing that is certain is that we have too much junk on our planet. There are too many disposable and badly made prod-

Taking care of the planet In designing her jewellery, Kokko is inspired by the beautiful Finnish nature, and in particular Jyvlävkylä, where she is from. However, it is not only the vast Finnish nature that inspires the designer, who is also influenced by people and the different societies and cultures in the world. “My designs are

Web: www.designjaazakokko.com Web shop: www.arcticworldofsantaclaus.com Instagram: @jaazakokko

No waste (of space) Even though things are improving, it is estimated that 480 kilogrammes of waste are generated per person every year in the EU. Many materials, such as metal, glass and plastics, could be easily recycled but are still often thrown out instead, due to simple factors such as a lack of ease in recycling. Now, a Finnish mother-and-daughters team has come up with Ecosmol: a piece of furniture that helps make home recycling an easier and more pleasant process. “Most people don’t have space in their home for multiple large, unsightly bins – that goes for us too – and recycling things like cardboard and plastics takes up a lot of space,” says Enni Karikoski, who now runs the family business Niimaar alongside her mother and sister. “And so, we came up with a convenient piece of furniture that holds and hides your recycling but also works as a seat, a shelf or a table.” She continues: “We wanted the Ecosmol to be practical, to be made of high-quality materials, and to have a bold, clean aesthetic – the classic Nordic design principle – and were lucky enough to get the award-winning Finnish designer Harri Koskinen on board. He designed a product that we’re 82 | Issue 111 | April 2018

really proud of: a durable, sturdy but easily movable bin made of sustainable Finnish birch, with three adjustable compartments.” Karikoski’s friend, a Japanese designer based in Barcelona, invented a series of reusable, waterproof and washable bags that fit the possible compartment sizes. The Ecosmol is already available in shops in much of northern Europe and

By Louise Older Steffensen | Photos: Niimaar

ships to the rest of the world. In addition to producing the Ecosmol, Niimaar takes part in many local clean-up initiatives and events created by Helsinki’s green scene. “We’ve already been inspired by lots of great people and initiatives and look forward to expanding into more products that make for an easy but sustainable lifestyle in the future,” says Karikoski. Put simply, Ecosmol makes recycling pretty.

Web: www.niimaar.com Facebook: niimaarhelsinki Instagram: @niimaar_

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Made in Finland

Into the wild Founded by two friends, Flora of Finland is an art and design brand that aims to modernise the concept of a herbarium. Their mission to photograph Finnish flowers and plants has taken them to surprising places across the country – and through visually striking images, they are determined to prove to the world that nature is the new black. By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Flora of Finland

Laura Rautjoki and Anna-Mari Lämsä set up Flora of Finland in 2016, and the duo travels throughout Finland, photographing interesting plants along the way. “We built a custom-made portable studio that we’ve carried across all kinds of Finnish landscapes, in all kinds of weather. We’ve paddled in ponds and scoured through forests and fields to find specific plants to include in our collection. One of the most memorable plants we’ve photographed was the common sundew, a carnivorous plant that grows in bogs, and it was quite a mission to capture it on camera – but we did it,” Rautjoki laughs. All the plants are photographed in their natural habitat, and Flora of Finland’s aim is to draw people’s attention to the beauty of nature. “We hope to draw people closer to nature and let the plants’ natural beauty speak for itself as they are photographed on a black background,” Lämsä explains. Flora of Finland has grown rapidly in a short space of time, and last year, the company was invited to take part in a pop-up event by Artek in Tokyo to com-

memorate Finland’s 100 years of independence, along with a few other notable Finnish design brands. “Our products are unique and durable, and we aim to always use sustainable materials,” says Lämsä.

have traditionally been boring design eyesores, but we want to make them beautiful to look at,” says Lämsä. Rautjoki and Lämsä’s passion for their work and Finnish nature is tangible, and their love for their art shines through in their creations. “We hope to bring Finnish nature, design and art closer to people around the world, step by step,” Rautjoki concludes.

Flora of Finland’s next project is a collaboration with Konto, a Finnish company that manufactures acoustic products made out of natural fibre and other organic materials. Flora of Finland has designed four art pieces that will go on Konto acoustic panels, made from mould-resistant peat moss. They will be available to purchase from the Konto website from April 2018. “We’re very excited about this project: acoustic panels Founders Laura Rautjoki and Anna-Mari Lämsä.

Web: www.floraoffinland.com and www.konto.fi Instagram: @floraoffinland

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Made in Finland

Making storage beautiful From personalised wooden cutlery boxes to stools and shelves, Laatikkokauppa® manufactures handmade items made of Finnish wood. Driven by a deep passion for wood and sustainability, the company is on a quest to spread happiness by bringing a little bit of Finnish forest into people’s homes.

A handicraft factory Referring to her business as a handicraft factory, Pitkänen’s passion for her work undeniably shines through in the way she describes her business. “There is no production line here; it’s just me and a 84 | Issue 111 | April 2018

The sky is the limit

carpenter, as well as a handful of sales assistants in our shop, Tapanila, located in Helsinki,” she says. Laatikkokauppa®’s workhop is based in Tuusula, where Pitkänen and carpenter Repe work.

Woodwork is a traditional craft, and Pitkänen wants to make custom-made wooden products more accessible for all customers. “I wanted to make it as easy as possible for people to approach a carpenter, and to be able to have a made-tomeasure product in whatever wood finish or colour they choose,” she explains.

Working solely with Finnish wood, Pitkänen believes in ethical and organic sustainability. Laatikkokauppa® was awarded a key flag mark, synonymous with ‘made in Finland’, as well as the renowned Design from Finland mark, which is awarded to brands that showcase Finnish excellence. “When wood is imported from abroad, how often are we able to pin down its exact origins? Do we know what products have been used to treat it, or who has been in charge of the treatment? We are able to trace the ori-

Working with a wide range of clients – from individuals to restaurants, nursing homes, shops and hairdressers – Laatikkokauppa®’s versatility is evident. The online shop stocks everything from ready-made boxes and shelving to stools and decorative items. For businesses, Laatikkokauppa® supplies everything from personalised wooden cutlery boxes for restaurants and cafés to business card holders and stackable boxes and shelving. With over 20 colours to choose from when it comes to custom-made wood items, the

By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Lempivisions, Katri Haavisto

“Five years ago, I was looking for a box for a Christmas arrangement, but it was near impossible to find one that was durable, beautiful and decorative. Finland is a country full of trees, or green gold, as I like to call them – so how come this seemed like a difficult task? I love the smell of wood and I’ve always loved working with wood, and find that wooden boxes are just so versatile and lovely – and so Laatikkokauppa® was born,” says Kirsi Pitkänen, owner of Laatikkokauppa®.

gins of all our wood – and all of it comes from Finland,” Pitkänen affirms.

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Made in Finland

options are plentiful Pitkänen wants to help clients get the perfect wooden item that is just right for them: from the initial design to surface treatment and colour – the sky is the limit. Among Laatikkokauppa®’s most popular items are the JakkaRisto® design stools, made out of birch, and the Tuomaala™ stools made from pine. Both stools are available to purchase from the company’s online shop, with shipping available across Europe. As with most of the designs, Pitkänen went back to basics when she designed the JakkaRisto® and Tuomaala™. “My family has a small wooden stool in the sauna, which would always fall over if you stood on it the

wrong way. I dismantled the stool and counted that it had 17 different parts to it. I really didn’t think it was necessary for a simple stool to have 17 different parts, so I designed one that has five parts: four legs and a seat – and ours doesn’t fall over even if you stand on just one corner of it,” she says. Everything at Laatikkokauppa® has been carefully designed to serve a purpose, and all items are designed to withstand everyday use. “Nothing has been made by chance: from the width of the wood to every minor detail, everything has been thought of,” says Pitkänen. She insists that storage can be – and is supposed to be – beautiful. Instead of storing things

away, she is a strong believer in proudly displaying our items, and allowing them to bring us happiness. “One of the most important things for me is to make wooden products in Finland, from Finnish materials. With all our products, the journey from the forest into your home is fairly short. I want to add a bit of Finnish wood and make life a little more fun, one box at a time,” Pitkänen smiles. Web: www.woodenboxshop.eu Instagram: @Laatikkokauppa Facebook: Laatikkokauppa Pinterest: Laatikkokauppa

Carpenter Repe and owner Kirsi Pitkänen. Photo: Studio Onni, Niina Stolt

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 85

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Made in Finland

Above: It all started with lambswool 100 years ago. Below left: Helsinki City Theatre chose Annala. Photo: Miika Storm. Below right: Tradition meets modern technology in Annala textiles.

Woven secrets There is more to fabric than just beauty. Fire-proofing, durability, antibacterial features, anti-mite functionality for protection against bugs, plus special features surrounding mobile technology and electricity – all these valuable assets can be woven into a piece of fabric. By Taina Värri | Photos: K & H Annala Oy

The only Finnish interior textile manufacturer, Annala, has just celebrated its first 100 years of craftsmanship and fabric manufacturing. The felted lambswool boots started the mill that now produces modern interior textiles for shipping companies, public spaces and private customers.

Touchy-feely textiles

times by temporarily commissioned talents. Annala also collaborates with major design houses in Finland and at the University of Lapland. Private customers and interior designers can keep their hopes high with Annala too: vintage automobiles, sailboats and various special occasions have been successfully decorated with Annala textiles.

So soft, yet so tough The yarns are made in Europe by certified manufacturers. There are no poisonous substances or harmful metals, and the whole production chain is ethically transparent. You can sit in the theatre and enjoy the show; the seat feels so nice and the fabric so soft – yet there is all this safety and purity woven into your comfort at the same time. There are special textiles for military use too. It has something to do with electricity and radar signals, though perhaps the precise knowhow behind these designs should remain top secret!

It takes a few kilometres of fabric to cover the interiors of, say, a fleet of Caribbean cruisers. When a hotel chain refreshes its brand, it needs a unique look and feel for specially themed rooms. The Finnish Parliament House renovates its wall acoustics strictly in keeping with the original look and feel of the building. And they all turn to Annala. All designs are Finnish – sometimes made by in-house designers, some86 | Issue 111 | April 2018

Web: www.annala.fi

ec F I TO N ial Th AG P LA em EN CR ND e: CI EAT ’S ES IV 20 E 18

Top left: Interior for L Architects Ltd. Top right: Branding and identity for Ung Nordisk Musik Festival 2015. Below left: Characters for the animation project Lady Shave. Below right: Office building restaurant space for L Architects Ltd.

Visualising ideas and brands In all markets, at some point, it becomes relevant to visualise an idea, and it is essential to create a brand. OlaDesign, based in Finland, has made the process simple and fun by working closely with its clients to ensure that their needs are met.

citing as we can step inside the projects. This makes the experience immersive, so you can experience the building or design, not just see it.”

By Josefine Older Steffensen | Photos: OlaDesign

OlaDesign does everything from business cards to 3D architectural visualisation. The three designers behind it – Julio Orduña Sánchez, Emma Grönholm and Matías Celayes – have combined their experiences as graphic and industrial designers, as well as landscape architects, to create a company with a breadth of expertise. “When you have a design qualification you start to think in a particular way, which means that it becomes easier for

us to translate the clients’ idea and help them visualise it,” explains Sanchez. Their graphics and visualisations evidently work, as OlaDesign, alongside its clients, has won numerous international design and architecture awards. “Most of what we do is in the early development phase, where clients want to see what their projects will end up looking like or they have to show it to investors,” says Sanchez. “We’ve also started working with virtual reality, which is really ex-

Sanchez continues: “Whether we’re making logos, graphic design or complete 3D environments, it’s always exciting to work with so many different clients.” OlaDesign works primarily in Finland but also internationally, with many clients continuing to return. Web: www.oladesign.fi Facebook: oladesignfi Instagram: @oladesignfi LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/ company/oladesign-fi

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 87

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Finland’s Top Creative Agencies 2018

Trooli combines history, art, quality materials and modernity to create a distinctive, stylish and welcoming look, counteracting that of a typical business park.

Designs that make a change Specialising in customer experience and business culture, Rune & Berg is a design company that combines brand development with strategic and insightful visual design. With the team’s extensive knowhow and multi-skilled background, the agency is able to offer clients an all-round service, delivering user-focused designs that have the potential to make a real change to people’s lives. By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Aleksi Tikkala

Rune & Berg Design’s story began in 2011, when it included just three designers. Seven years later, the agency has grown into an 18-strong team of professional, versatile and enthusiastic designers. Focusing on corporate culture and customer experience projects, Rune & Berg Design is able to cater to a number of clients, and their knowhow includes spatial design, graphic design, service design and more. For the design agency, the most important thing for a successful project is to understand the client thoroughly. “We aim to 88 | Issue 111 | April 2018

understand how our clients operate, their company’s culture, goals and visions, how their everyday life works, and to figure out how we can make it better, more functional and more inspiring,” says Hanna Herkama, designer and partner at Rune & Berg Design. “Our clients trust us completely, which is shown through increasingly larger and more versatile projects in all areas. We’ve managed to grow together, and our team works incredibly well together. Each of our wonderful and creative team members is an expert in their own field, and they are able to grow and develop professionally here.”

Creating meaningful human experiences At the heart of all of Rune & Berg Design’s projects is an ambition to create meaningful human experiences that are more than just moments of instant gratification. In 2017, Rune & Berg Design had the opportunity to work on a unique project, the Myö Hostel in Helsinki. The hostel’s aim is to provide its guests with a pleasant and memorable stay, while offering jobs for people with disabilities. “From the very beginning, we knew we wanted to be involved with this project. We felt really strongly about the cause and felt that we needed to do our bit for it,” Herkama explains. “We spent a long time together with the amazing founders, Jenny Närhinen and Maiju Sundvall, mapping out their and their employees’ wishes, needs, activities, as well as potential issues. We kept

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Finland’s Top Creative Agencies 2018

the experience of the users – the management team, employees and guests – in our minds at all times, and managed to identify their needs and come up with solutions and ideas. The concept quickly began to flesh out, and so we moved from an idea into a physical space – and eventually Myö Hostel became real,” says Herkama. The end result is a boutique-style hostel brand that can be experienced with all five senses. “We created a brand where people and the space itself could co-exist seamlessly, and where the urban city and nature are in a dialogue with each other,” Herkama explains. From the small details, including the use of bold colours and unique, hand-drawn wallpaper de-

signs, to making signage easily accessible and inviting, Rune & Berg Design’s touches add to the charm of the cosy and friendly hostel.

Versatility on the inside and outside Another of the agency’s recent projects included the transformation of a bland office block in Helsinki into an inviting, multifunctional building. As a result, Trooli was born. Instead of a typical business park, visitors get the feeling of walking into a hotel lobby or restaurant, and the building’s visual image mixes artisan spirit with laid-back hipster style. The building is an inviting and quirky space that users find welcoming and comfortable. “We created a space where the history, art, quality materials and

modernity are combined. The end result is a relaxed, stylish and distinctive look inside and out,” says Herkama. “We’ve been told we’re one of the first versatile design agencies in Finland that truly approach the world from a useroriented and multidisciplinary point of view. We want the entire design process to add value to our clients, and mutual trust is very important for the success of every project we undertake. We believe in the power of working together, and the world is an endless source of inspiration for us. Our multi-skilled team has a strong vision and endless talent and creativity, and we want to create meaningful experiences that make everyday life easier,” Herkama concludes. Web: www.rbdesign.fi

Photo: Martti Järvi

Myö Hostel is a boutique-style hostel brand, where the urban city and nature are in dialogue with each other. Photo: Meeri Utti

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 89

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Finland’s Top Creative Agencies 2018

Co-founders Ilmari Mansikkamäki (left) and Sid Kumpurinne (right).

Collective creative know-how What happens when you pool together young creatives with a wide range of knowledge and specialist skills? Secret Synapse is a design agency that believes its collective versatility allows the designers to throw themselves into projects and bring a fresh angle to their work. By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Ville Aro

Secret Synapse co-founders Sid Kumpurinne and Ilmari Mansikkamäki were classmates at the School of Arts, Design and Architecture in Helsinki, and Lahti Institute of Design graduate Riku Tuppela joined the team later. What sets them apart from other design agencies is that each worker is also a shareholder in the company. “We work individually or as a team, whichever suits the project or client in question best. Our collective knowledge is very broad, and we each bring our own visions and strengths to the table,” explains Kumpurinne, the company’s design strategist. Part of Secret Synapse’s uniqueness is the designers’ autonomy: they have the freedom to do jobs independently and choose their own projects. “Due to our 90 | Issue 111 | April 2018

business model, we are able to harness smaller freelancers into our team, and we can combine all our knowledge together without losing our own identities. In other design offices, projects usually have a very set process, which does have its advantages, but we believe a design office should adapt to the clients’ needs, rather than vice versa. We want to be a versatile boutique agency that tailors each project and serves clients personally,” Kumpurinne states. From web design and spatial concept design to branding and video content, Secret Synapse is able to cover a wide range of creative work. At the moment, they are in the process of launching an apple juice press, designed for a client. “The apple juice press is made from antibacterial

bamboo materials. It not only looks good and is affordable, but it is very powerful and is able to crush apples much faster than other juicers. From the initial design to production and building prototypes, we are about to launch the final product this spring,” says Kumpurinne. “We have the capacity to solve big problems and undertake large projects, and we want to be a place where designers can use their full potential and be free to explore their interests and passions,” the design strategist concludes.

Web: www.secretsynapse.pro

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Finland’s Top Creative Agencies 2018

Photo: Saana Hellsten

Photo: Atarah Atkinson

Photo: Nina Merikallio

Timeless and holistic design With expertise covering everything from identities and art direction to packaging design, along with a network of creatives from other fields, the Finnish design practice Hellsten is able to deliver holistic branding with a Scandinavian touch. By Ingrid Opstad

Multidisciplinary designer Saana Hellsten started her career as an art director for the department store Stockmann, before moving to New York, where she completed her master’s degree in packaging design. During her four years in the big apple, Hellsten also gained valuable experience from some of the top agencies in the country. After returning to Finland, she founded her own design company. “New York influenced my style, but it also helped me appreciate where I come from and my values. In Finland, we are down to earth, hard-working and honest, something I see my clients appreciate,” says Hellsten. Keeping with her Scandinavian roots, the Helsinki-based designer has a high appreciation of integrity, sustainability, and equality. With these qualities in mind, her goal is to help create timeless, functional and high-quality branding solutions for authentic and value-based international brands, while never forgetting to have some fun.

Vernal is an example of this approach. The project included the visual identity of the brand, the packaging design, and the art direction of the campaign images. “When done well, the visual idea can be replicated across all areas of the branding, and this will help a new brand create recognisability. When the idea is clear, something as simple as using colour blocks can be effective enough,” the designer explains. With the concept work Basik, Hellsten created a series of household products with a unified identity that removes gendered design. “Basik was born as a result of my thesis based on gendered visual language. It criticises packaging that perpetuates gender stereotypes and sees gender-neutral packaging as a factor that can encourage gender equality and create a more sustainable world,” says Hellsten. By sticking to a neutral visual language and designing informative icons, she gave the consumers the option to choose products based on purpose and need instead

of gender. “This concept has received a lot of positive attention. I get asked quite often where these products can be purchased, but getting them into production is a work in progress that I hope will happen one day.” Photo: Nina Merikallio

Photo: Saana Hellsten

Web: www.hellsten.co Facebook: studiohellsten Instagram: @studio_hellsten

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 91

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Finland’s Top Creative Agencies 2018

Graphic play

By Signe Hansen | Photos: Stringular

Accentuating stories and graphics with individually composed music, Finnish design studio Stringular is turning graphic work into graphic play. The results are distinct visual features for interactive media, TV and film. Music, film, and computers have been the three passions of Finnish Tuomas Järvenpää ever since he was a teenager. Through Stringular, his design studio, he uses all of them to create distinct motion graphics and visuals. “My clients see it as a huge advantage that I can produce my own music for their visuals instead of using stock music. I can build the story, the visuals and the music from scratch, and I think that’s why they keep coming back.” Having worked in the industry for 18 years, Järvenpää founded Stringular three years ago. His strong network and reputation have since brought the studio a wide range of national and international clients within the world of TV, product branding and marketing. Mixing analogue and graphic elements, Järvenpää finds inspiration through his walks and runs in the nature surrounding his studio in Tampere. “Every time I start

something, it’s like a magical process. I make creations from nothing, and that’s a pretty awesome feeling,” says the graphic designer. Järvenpää also creates his own short films and experiments to keep exploring new practices. The ultimate dream, he says, is to work on the title sequence of a Hollywood feature film. “I feel that my work is more like play than work. If I didn’t have to pay the bills, I’d probably still do it for free.”

Web: www.stringular.com

Visual versatility

92 | Issue 111 | April 2018

‘I feel that my work is more like play than work,’ says Tuomas Järvenpää, founder of Stringular.

By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Annukka Repo

From a young age, Annukka Repo, also known as Nukka, was always interested in the arts. Often drawing inspiration from the Finnish nature around her, Repo’s love of art led her to complete a Bachelor of Arts degree in design, in English. “I’ve always been interested in design, user experience and beautiful visuals,” says Repo. From logos and business card designs to user experience projects for magazines, Repo is able to cater to an array of client needs. Her recent projects include an information booklet on peer mentoring in workshops for the city of Tampere’s employment services, and a board game based on the Kalevala, the epic poetry that consists of Finnish folklore and mythology. “With each project, I can advise clients on small details such as what colours to choose for optimal user experience, and other important design features that they will need to take into account,” she explains. In addition, Repo offers two-hour training courses for job hunters on how to improve the visual appeal of their ap-

Finnish design studio Stringular creates distinct visual features for interactive media, TV and film.

plications. “I offer practical advice and training on how to make a CV as memorable as possible to recruiters, and how to improve on its layout, making it easier to read, which is invaluable to those looking for work,” she says. Thriving on the interaction with her clients, Repo’s passion for her work shines

through in the way she talks about it. “What inspires me most is people; they are the biggest driver of my creativity, whether on my training course or in my various design projects,” Repo concludes. Annukka Repo.

Kalevala board game.

Peer-mentoring booklet.

Web: www.nukkarepo.com Facebook: NukkaRepo Instagram: @NukkaRepo

This is my house! Alfons Ă&#x2026;bergs Kulturhus (Alfie Atkinsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Cultural Centre) is a creative cultural centre for children and their adults. This is a place where curious children can play, get up to mischief, climb and discover a world full os exciting things.

Slussgatan 1, Gothenburg, Sweden

alfonskulturhus.com

RE U LT U C

ND A NL I F

The Turku Museum Centre: Great cultural variety in a historic setting Given that it is the oldest city in Finland, it is only natural that Turku can also pride itself on being the location of a magnificent castle, dating back to the 1280s. The castle is an exciting visitor attraction in itself, but also serves as the perfect starting point for those keen to explore all that Turku has to offer.

the peak season, we offer popular guided tours in English, daily, and we have many different guided tours on different themes available on request throughout the year,” the curator explains.

By Pia Petersson | Photos: Turku Museum Centre

Part of the Turku Museum Centre, Turku Castle stands on the banks of the river Aura, overlooking both the archipelago and important trade routes. “During the centuries, the castle grew, and in the 1560s it became a Renaissance palace for the Duke of Finland. The castle has served as a prison, a stronghold for the army, an administrative centre for the crown, as well as a home and workplace for many,” museum curator Susanna Lahtinen explains. Today, the castle welcomes 145,000 guests per year, many of whom take the opportunity to also pay a visit to the other points of interest, which together make up the Turku Museum Centre. There certainly is enough to please everyone in this coastal city, which boasts a wide range of museums. “In addition to the 94 | Issue 111 | April 2018

castle, there are a number of very different museums and galleries here at the Turku Museum Centre: The Pharmacy Museum and House Qwensel, The Biological Museum, Kurala Kylämäki Village, Luostarimäki Handicrafts Museum, the Old Great Square Art Galleries, and Wäinö Aaltonen Museum of Art,” says Lahtinen. Over the centuries, Turku Castle has provided the setting for many of the dramatic events that form part of Finland’s history, from sieges to great fires and bombings during World War II. These days, it is all a bit calmer, and the main activities that take place around the castle are of a more cultural nature. “During events here at the castle, when history comes alive, visitors can follow history reenactments, listen to old music and performances, or enjoy the lectures given by specialists. During

The Turku Museum Centre certainly offers great cultural variety and a fascinating insight into the history of the city. “All the museums here at the Museum Centre of Turku are intriguing in their own way and together offer everything from medieval cultural history to contemporary art,” Lahtinen concludes.

Web: www.turku.fi/en/museum

Scan Magazine | Mini Theme | Culture in Finland

Celebrating 20 years of Siida The Sámi museum and Nature Centre Siida is celebrating its 20th anniversary this spring. Siida is also opening three new exhibitions, further highlighting the vibrant Sámi culture and traditions. By Malin Norman | Photos: Siida

The Sámi museum Siida is the national museum of the Finnish Sámi and exhibits Sámi culture, art and crafts. In collections and exhibitions, it presents the spiritual and material culture of the Finnish Sámi with a purpose of maintaining the identity and the cultural selfesteem of the Sámi. On 27 March this year, Siida celebrated its 20th anniversary with a range of activities. On the same day, two new exhibitions opened. Johan Nuorgam – A Sámi Cultural Broker by the museum tells the story of the front figure of the Sámi Litto association and founder of the museum. Until January 2019, visitors can see a rare set of artefacts collected by Nuorgam in the 1930s. The other new display, Siida’s 20 Years: A Photo Show, consists of photos from the early days of Siida, showing its diverse activities. Later in spring, the nature centre will open the new exhibition Multiformers, and throughout the anniversary year, culture nights at the museum will high-

light various themes, and there will be story hours for children.

120,000 visitors last year Located in the heart of the Sámi area in Finland, in the small village of Inari with only 700 inhabitants, Siida is somewhat of a destination success story. Last year, the Sámi Museum and Northern Lapland Nature Centre had more than 120,000 visitors, including for the exhibitions and events, the Siida shop, the tourist information centre and the restaurant Sarrit. Around 60 per cent came from abroad, which is a clear sign of an international interest in experiencing Lapland. Minna Väisänen, customer services manager at Siida, elaborates on the growing success: “Our curious visitors come from all over the world to learn about the Sámi culture and experience the nature, including the northern lights,” she says. “When they pop into Siida, they are surprised by what we have to offer. The displays showing dif-

ferent ways of living in these conditions are really impressive!” As well as the permanent and temporary exhibitions and programme of events, visitors can experience the open-air museum, which is open during the summer. Here, they have the opportunity to get acquainted with typical hunting and fishing methods, as well as the original buildings of the Tirro Farm.

Web: www.siida.fi Facebook: siidainari Twitter: @SiidaInari Instagram: @siidainari

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Scan Magazine | Mini Theme | Culture in Finland

Art with a Finnish background

By Ingrid Opstad | Photos: Nelimarkka Museum

With a rural and calm setting, a visit to the Nelimarkka Museum in the small town of Alajärvi in Finland is a great way to discover contemporary art. Nelimarkka Museum was opened in 1964 by the painter Eero Nelimarkka. “He had a dream to establish an art school and a museum, and believed that art education and the possibility to see art should be available to everybody,” says museum director Elina Alkio. Today, this hidden gem is the Regional Art Museum of Southern Ostrobothnia, displaying the work of Nelimarkka as well as other international and national painters. With workshops and events organised for the public throughout the year, as well as their own artist-in-residence programme, they are maintaining a strong focus on art education. “As well as getting inspired by the surroundings, the artists on the programme also engage with the local community during their stay by hosting various

events such as workshops, open studios and small exhibitions,” says Alkio. Located in the middle of nature with a peaceful and quiet environment, Nelimarkka Museum hosts both permanent and temporary exhibitions with guided tours. Within the premises, guests can also visit a small gift shop and a café. The current permanent exhibition, Masters

Together, showcases the work and life of Nelimarkka and architect Alvar Aalto, who both had strong connections to Alajärvi throughout their lives. “Nelimarkka was fascinated by his surrounding scenery, so when you visit us you can see the characteristic landscape not only in his paintings, but also all around you,” says Alkio proudly. Web: www.nelimarkka-museo.fi

Left: A Rising Woman by Eero Nelimarkka from 1922. Middle: Self-portrait by Eero Nelimarkka from 1922.

A village of attractions for every taste and mood Surrounded by vast forests, lakes and fields lies Fiskars Village, a versatile destination offering everything from first-class art and design exhibitions and music events, to boutiques with handmade souvenirs, local food, workshops and cosy hotels – all contributing to an unforgettable experience for visitors of all kinds.

ing activities and experiences for the whole family, every season.

By: Åsa Hedvig Aaberge | Photos: Fiskars Village

Fiskars Village is an authentic Finnish village founded in 1649 and with many of its rustic, old buildings still intact. It is the ultimate destination for culture vultures, food lovers and anyone interested in history, nature and architecture. “You can really feel the artisan atmosphere present everywhere, from the historical buildings and surroundings and the hand-picked flavours in the food and drinks, to the nature trails, the playground and the small boutiques and workshops,” says marketing coordinator Elisabeth Blomqvist. Fiskars is home to a great variety of events, including performing arts, concerts and outdoor activities. The scenic area can also be discovered by hiking or paddling along the river and nearby lakes. For the 96 | Issue 111 | April 2018

active traveller, the village offers one of Finland’s leading mountain bike trails. Cafés and restaurants are open all year round, and several of them offer seasonal delicacies and local goodies flavoured with, for example, nettle, freshly picked mushrooms and seasonal berries. Good food needs great beverages, and locally distilled and brewed spirits, craft beer and cider all use local ingredients and exciting combinations. “Try, for example, Ägräs Gin with its bold taste of juniper berries and clover, or the refined Kuura Ice Cider made from only Finnish apples, nothing more and nothing less,” says Blomqvist. Fiskars Village boasts a slow pace and an artisan atmosphere yet is full of excit-

Web: www.fiskarsvillage.fi/en/home Instagram: @Fiskars_village

Scan Magazine | Mini Theme | Culture in Finland

Left: The festival father, Kaj Kulla, is a regular performer at the festival. Photo: Arctic Sun Photography. Middle: Eat, drink and be merry on the Jazz Boulevard. Right: Dalsbruk turns into a jazz village during the festival weekend. Below: The traditional opening parade on the Jazz Boulevard. Photo: Lvngroom Oy.

Jazz on the sea The second weekend after Midsummer, a highlight in the yearly jazz calendar takes place in the stunning Finnish Archipelago Sea, just off the south-western coast of the country. For a few glorious summer days, the seagulls’ squawk mixes with the soothing sound of classic jazz echoing between the islands and islets. By Pia Petersson | Photos: Mathias Lönnström

What started out as a little intimate jazz event organised by the couple Magi and Kaj Kulla in 1987 has since grown at a steady pace, without losing its cosy and friendly atmosphere. “Baltic Jazz Festival is where jazz musicians of international fame meet local talent. The focus of the festival is on artists hailing from the Baltic Sea area. Since 2002, the renowned Finnish jazz musician Antti Sarpila acts as the festival’s artistic director,” Alexandra Lönnström, newly appointed executive manager at the festival, begins. Baltic Jazz Festival takes place in the village of Dalsbruk, on the Kimito Island in the Turku Archipelago. Accessible by car and boat, Dalsbruk is located right by the sea, next to a guest harbour close to the festival area. Dalsbruk has

a long and fascinating history, which the organisers are keen to highlight to the festival audience through, for instance, the selection of the concert venues. Consequently, concerts are held in, for example, a former mechanical workshop, the church built of slag stones, and the picturesque cinema, which, by the way, served as a stable in a previous life. “The local aspect is of great importance to the organisers, such as showcasing the local cultural heritage and collaborating with local suppliers. The festival is based on community cooperation and brings together a large group of locals who work on a voluntary basis towards a common goal,” Lönnström explains. Attracting a mix of locals, people who spend the summer in the area, pleasure boaters and jazz lovers of all ages from

Finland and beyond, this summer’s festival runs from 6-8 July, with a traditional head start on 5 July. On the programme, there are familiar voices as well as several new faces, and in addition to a number of tribute concerts, Finnish music will receive special attention this year. During the festival, jazz really permeates all aspects of life in Dalsbruk. “In addition to the concerts at the regular venues, we also offer a traditional jazz church service, jazz golf and a jazz boulevard where you can shop, eat, drink and enjoy the festival spirit,” Lönnström concludes.

Web: www.balticjazz.com

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 97

Scan Magazine | Business | Keynote

Scan Business Keynote 98 | Business Profiles 99 | Innovation Profiles 102 | Business Column 105 | Business Calendar 105

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Why it pays to share details A lot of people have achieved a favourable position by having attractive and important contacts in their little black books. The most logical scenario is to keep those cards close to your chest – but this is the wrong approach. Some time ago, I had a meeting with an employee in a large blue-chip organisation. He was to arrange an important event for their biggest client and had to ask for help from colleagues who had some of the most important contacts – but he found that they were reluctant to cooperate with him. The event ended up being attended by fewer and far less important participants than had been expected – which meant a poor result for the company. Is this a unique story? Unfortunately not. We all know that it is a frequent occurrence in large and small businesses alike. Some employees regard important business relations as private property that can be activated to create value for their own advantage. Effective networking, however, involves sharing contacts for the benefit of everyone.

Do not keep the golden eggs to yourself It is quite understandable that people want to keep their golden eggs to them98 | Issue 111 | April 2018

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By Simone Andersen

selves, but this is not effective networking. First, consider why your contact would drop you if you are worth having in their network? Asking to introduce them to others, in moderation, will make no difference. If you have built a stable network, the likelihood of losing your contact is almost non-existent. Second, how will your contact react to you appreciating them so much that you recommend them to others? Even those in demanding roles will usually be flattered. Think about the same thing from your colleague’s point of view: what kind of relationship will they establish with you if you share one of your great contacts with them? This is something most people remember. Sharing good contacts is not risky. On the contrary, it is likely to be a win-win situation. Finally, there are big gains for both individual employees and the entire business if you pool your contacts. You can achieve almost anything if you join forces – not least because many companies lack the courage to do it. Pooling good contacts means that the whole will be bigger than the sum of its parts. And it is entirely free of charge.

Simone Andersen is a journalist and has a master’s degree in media science. She worked for many years at the Danish Broadcasting Corporation (DR) as an editor and talk show host. She is an expert in business networking and building relationships, has just written the bestselling book The Networking Book, published by LID publishing, and gives talks on this subject. This column is an extract from The Networking Book.

sla@strategisk.dk +45 26161818 www.strategisk.dk www.thenetworkercompany.com

Scan Magazine | Business Profile | SCADA MINDS

SCADA with renewed energy In a world in which vast and hyper-specific data is easily available and increasingly vital, companies must gather, monitor and analyse their own information output in order to run efficiently and profitably. In the wake of recent hacking and data breaches, it is equally important that said data is secure and protected. Building on the well-established Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) architecture, SCADA MINDS allows the new energy industries to protect and make the most out of their data in the brave new world of the IoT and Industry 4.0. By Louise Older Steffensen | Photos: SCADA MINDS

SCADA MINDS is helping some of the biggest names in renewable energy – including Vestas, Siemens, Vattenfall and Ørsted – to access and understand the intricate, complex details that modern technology can reveal about anything from their production systems to individual windmill output. “Of course, companies know the value of data feedback in streamlining their systems and processes, and they incorporate that into their business already,” says founding partner and CTO Helge Jensen, “but the sheer amount of information you can get out today can be overwhelming and difficult to navigate. Our clients want to focus on running their businesses – and on innovating and creating – so we help set up these data acquisition systems; we gather and store the information, analyse it,

and make it accessible to the client in a secure and responsible manner.” Jensen, a data analysist and cyber security consultant within the renewable energy industries, founded SCADA MINDS with external system integration architect Steffen Duve and IT entrepreneur Morten Kvistgaard Nielsen. The three each had experience of working within software and technology giants and ran their own software development companies. “It just made sense to come together. Our individual areas of expertise combined very well to allow us to assist other companies,” Jensen explains. “The market for renewables keeps growing. At the same time, technological innovation is transforming what we can

know about industrial processes and systems. What’s more, we can interact with entities like machinery, production lines and individual devices remotely through the Internet of Things.” The advent of such smart networks is so significant that it has been hailed as the fourth industrial revolution. “With these profitable and creative advantages comes a great responsibility for cyber security,” Jensen concludes. “Making systems easily operable by the right people, while making sure they are out of reach of the wrong hands, is one of the keys to success of our company. Big data is fantastic if you know how to handle it.”

Web: www.scadaminds.com LinkedIn: SCADA MINDS

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 99

Scan Magazine | Business Profile | Lena Munk Consult

Top: Lena Munk’s sheep provide workshop participants with some very hands-on lessons on teamwork and communication. Below: Management consultant Lena Munk has a decade of experience of helping people and businesses grow.

Building the best team in your field In a small village 30 minutes outside Copenhagen, 60 sheep are teaching corporate teams a thing or two about communication and teamwork. Behind the effective team-building activity is Danish consultant Lena Munk, who has specialised in organisational development and team culture. By Signe Hansen | Photos: Lena Munk Consult

Effective teamwork in the workplace is at the heart of the various team-building activities and seminars offered by Lena Munk Consult. Set on a farm in the small village of Pederstrup, the company offers a truly unique and effective approach to team development, using a flock of 60 live sheep. “When we work with live sheep, everything becomes very real. The emotions, the thoughts and the things we say are genuine reactions. That provides an excellent starting point for examining and discussing the teamwork and drawing parallels with the office environment,” explains Munk. With 15 years of management experience behind her, as well as a Master in the Psychology of Organisations and an MSc 100 | Issue 111 | April 2018

in communications, Munk has a decade’s worth of experience of helping people and businesses grow. Through her consultancy, Munk and her associates offer a number of workshops and activities, as well as one-to-one leadership development. Among the many clients to have enjoyed the lessons learnt from the sheep – and Munk, of course – is Emilie Just Nielsen from Hillerød Municipality. “Everyone was enthused by the way Lena and the sheep provided us with some very practical lessons on our teamwork. The sheep gave us a real and direct response to the way we worked together. It was a fun, informative and very hands-on experience.” The idea to develop a team-building activity based on centuries-old skills arose

from Lena Munk’s own experience of herding sheep when visiting family on the Faroe Islands. The unique concept is named Får728® (‘får’ is Danish for ‘sheep’) because of a particular sheep in her first flock with the ear tag number 10728. Unlike the other sheep, 10728 would often go its own ways. “The unpredictability of sheep 728 highlighted the concept by forcing the shepherds to react quickly and work together as a team to solve the many different assignments,” Munk explains.

Web: www.lenamunkconsult.com

Scan Magazine | Business Profile | PersondataSupport

Mette Blanner, partner.

Protecting personal data On 25 May, the new EU regulations about general data protection will be implemented in Denmark. With new rules, and higher fines if the rules are not followed, the new regulations will have a big impact on companies across the EU. How can companies easily and efficiently ensure that they are following the rules? By Josefine Older Steffensen | Photos: PersondataSupport

“Firstly, I think a lot of people are panicking more than they need to. Yes, these are big changes, but it is also possible to get your head around it all,” says Mette Blanner reassuringly. She is partner at PersondataSupport, a Danish company that has dedicated itself to providing easy solutions to implementing the new regulations. PersondataSupport has made it easy for companies to implement the new rules, by creating a simple step-by-step guide and software that can organise the data, and by offering their own experience in the industry. “The company was established in March 2017, and since then we have grown at a fast rate. Today we’re

ten consultants covering the whole of Denmark and helping around 360 companies across the country, as well as their subsidiaries in Germany, Sweden, and Norway,” says Blanner. “The demand for support has been huge.”

Easy, convenient and cheap PersondataSupport offers different options depending on the level of support your company may need, ranging from a DIY solution to an all-inclusive package. All their solutions start by creating a profile of the individual company and the personal data they are dealing with, to establish what will be the most useful solution for them. “What’s important to us is that the company can

actually use the portal that we provide, so that they don’t become reliant on us. It has to be easy and user-friendly and of course cost effective,” says Blanner. “At the moment, due to the panic, people are opting for the first solution they find, but all of this needs to be implemented in the long-term, so it’s important to have the competency to understand what is going on behind the solution. All our consultants are DPO certified, specialists in their field and completely dedicated to implementing these new EU regulations.” Blanner concludes: “It’s important to remember that as long as you have prepared for the new rules and are in the process of implementing them, then you’re well on your way. If you need help getting to that stage, we’re happy to answer any questions.” Web: www.persondatasupport.as

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 101

Scan Magazine | Innovation Profile | Checkout Finland Oy

Leading payment solutions for a changing market Addressing rapidly changing requirements for payment solutions, Checkout Finland offers progressive technologies for merchants to grow their businesses. By Malin Norman | Photos: Checkout Finland

Checkout Finland is one of the leading internet-based payment service providers in Finland. The company was set up in 2008 and is located in Tampere, with a staff of 30 in-house professionals. As of 2014, Checkout has been a subsidiary of OP Financial Group. OP is one of the largest financial companies in Finland, and Checkout belongs to its new digital commerce and payments business. Originally set up by start-up entrepreneurs, the company was initially focused on small and medium-sized enterprises. Developing over the years and changing 102 | Issue 111 | April 2018

focus to servicing larger corporations, Checkout Finland has grown rapidly, with an approximate 30 per cent growth rate in 2017. It now has close to 10,000 e-commerce merchants in Finland and a continuously growing number of merchants for physical store payment solutions as well. Services cover a wide range of modern SaaS solutions for merchants to maximise their business value, both for e-commerce and m-commerce, as well as solutions for physical shops. “We have the widest selection of tools tailored for

the Finnish market,” says CEO Perttu Kroger. “If you are selling something to consumers in Finland and want to make sure that the money flows flawlessly from and across your channels, we are the right partner.”

Rapidly shifting environment According to Kroger, the payment landscape is shifting rapidly, with mobile payments becoming the trend, especially for millennials, and merchants should address this demanding segment promptly. “Consumers are moving from bank payments and card payments to using mobile for both e-commerce and physical boutiques. Supporting mobile payments in a digital or physical shop has become a prerequisite to serving the growing millennial customer group successfully.

Scan Magazine | Innovation Profile | Checkout Finland Oy

Checkout Finland has just acquired Payment Highway, a Finnish mobileapplication payment provider, and can now offer solutions for businesses planning on building mobile applications that require payment facilitation. With this acquisition, Checkout will be presenting new x-Pay solutions where consumers can pay using a range of global mobile wallets. Evolving from a payment company into a major player in the e-commerce field, Checkout Finland is also building solutions in smart logistics aggregation with its partners. By doing so, the company can in the future provide for not only payments but also logistics. For example, an e-commerce merchant who wants to build an e-commerce website usually has to sign agreements and integrate APIs with each logistics provider, which can be time-consuming, especially for small companies. Simplifying this process significantly, Checkout Finland is aiming to support multiple logistics carriers for e-commerce through its logistics suite. Add to that Checkout’s 24 different payment methods that collate its payment service offering, and all the boxes are ticked.

Expanding business agreements

Changing EU regulations

Explaining the recipe for the company’s success, Kroger says: “From the start, we have built easy-to-use and developerfriendly tools. It’s important to look at what the market needs and react fast, and we have been able to provide the newest, most modern technologies in the payment landscape, such as mobile payments and platform solutions.”

This year, the EU regulations for payment services are changing. The revised payment service directive, named PSD2, enables bank customers to use third parties to access and manage their finances, if they so wish. This will end the banks’ monopoly on account information and payment services and will certainly have an impact on the payment industry as well as merchants.

Last spring, Checkout Finland signed deals with Pivo, MobilePay and MasterPass, making mobile payments accessible in 4,500 Finnish web shops. Commenting on the achievement, Kroger says: “Mobile wallet is a fast and easy payment format that improves the shopping experience and reduces the risk of unsuccessful purchases.” In November, Checkout Finland signed another significant cooperation agreement, this time with smart mobility company PayiQ for the most diversified tools for digitalisation of mobility services in Finland. Checkout Finland will provide its wide range of payment methods and reporting services to PayiQ’s award-winning mobile solutions.

Perttu Kroger, CEO of Checkout Finland.

For the Finnish market, the regulations for electronic customer identification are also shifting this year. Checkout Finland is currently working on a new service to address the changing requirements and to help companies of all sizes to utilise digital identification better in their e-commerce business. Checkout Finland is licensed to operate in all European countries. It can support businesses selling products and services to Finnish customers, offering merchants the payment methods needed to succeed. Web: www.checkout.fi Facebook: CheckoutFinland Twitter: @CheckoutFinland

The team at Checkout Finland.

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 103

Scan Magazine | Innovation Profile | Honkio

Left: CEO Markus Heikkilä (left) with founder Pekka Honkonen (right). Photo: Honkio. Right: WorkPilots, created by Honkio, is an app designed to help young people gain temporary employment and valuable work experience. Photo: Work Pilots Oy

Behold the mobile revolution Airbnb, TaskRabbit, Uber… Share economy apps – apps involving online transactions – have become part of our everyday life, and the way we use mobile apps has changed dramatically. Specialising in mobile solutions that focus on payments and risk management as well as resourcing and Internet of Things (IoT) solutions, Honkio helps its clients get their app on the market quickly and make it the best-possible tailored solution. By Ndéla Faye

When Pekka Honkonen set up the company in 2012, he initially wanted to focus on transaction-decision engineering solutions based on real-time analysis and scoring. Since then, his business has gone from strength to strength. “We have evolved as a company and have created solutions for everything from workforce management to food ordering and ride sharing, among many other things,” explains Honkonen. Offering clients a ready-made platform, Honkio prides itself on delivering high-quality applications based on client briefs. “Our clients can start operating one of these services in a matter of weeks. Our main aim is to help our 104 | Issue 111 | April 2018

customers to save time – and therefore also save them money,” says Markus Heikkilä, the company’s CEO. “One third of global online transactions are done using mobile phones. We want to enable our clients to get started as quickly as possible, and with as much ease as possible,” says Heikkilä. The team at Honkio is able to transform various client briefs into easily functioning mobile applications. Bookings and orders as well as payments are all handled easily, and tailored to fit client needs and branding. One of the company’s biggest success stories has been an application Honkio

created for WorkPilots, a marketplace where employers and employees meet. The app is designed to help young people gain temporary employment and valuable work experience. “This project was the biggest and most varied project we’ve undertaken so far. An added bonus is the obvious good cause it represents,” says Heikkilä. Honkio is also at the planning stage of a new project gathering IoT data from construction sites and real estate. “No project is too big or too small for us: from an app that can be launched within a day, to bigger projects that take careful planning, we can do it all. We thrive on innovation and are constantly exploring new and better ways of driving the mobile revolution. As an example, we are bringing AI into our platform to provide better solutions to our customers,” the CEO concludes.

Web: www.honkio.com

Scan Magazine | Business | Column / Calendar

Focus on learning Attending a drumming class during your working day might not, at first glance, seem very serious, but glance again and you can discover a more serious intention. In fact, organising classes like this at the Leeds University learning centre helped Jo Westerman, one of their Union Learning Representatives (ULRs), to the award of an MBE. Electing workplace ULRs, carrying out learning audits and setting up company learning centres were all made possible in the UK by legislation introduced by the Blair government in 2002. It was part of an attempt to improve the skills base of the British workforce, 20 per cent of which is functionally illiterate. One illustration of functional illiteracy is not being able to find a plumber in the yellow pages when you see water coming through your ceiling. This statistic demonstrates the calamitous failure of British education and

By Steve Flinders

training. ULRs are one powerful means of bringing people back into learning. Employees lacking basic skills can feel shame about what friends and children may think of them. They may well find it easier to confide in a trusted workmate than in the company’s training manager. Consequently, attending courses for fun and basic skills courses at on-site learning centres run by workmates has helped many thousands of British workers to rediscover learning. Companies like Nestlé UK have built on this by providing continuous training for shop-floor employees in manageable nuggets with a credit-based system of bonuses as a further incentive. Emphasising learning over training in this bottom-up way is a great approach to improving both employee skills and engagement. It also redresses a little the heavy investment bias towards training senior managers rather than the mass of the workforce.

And the final word to Leeds: “This is the only place in the whole university,” Westerman once told me, “where you get professors and cleaners sharing the same activities.” Long live workplace learning. Steve Flinders is a freelance trainer, writer and coach, based in Malta, who helps people develop their communication and leadership skills for working internationally: steveflind@aol.com.

Business Calendar Scandinavian business events you do not want to miss this month Make It Your Business – for women starting a business The Make It Your Business seminar is for female entrepreneurs or those who dream of starting their own business. The initiative runs regular seminars around the country, providing an opportunity to meet like-minded women and learn from those who have already trodden the path and made their business a success. Coming to Cardiff in April, the event’s panellists include Betina Skovbro, founder of The Danish Bakery, and Tanya Lynch, founder of Hygge Retreats, who will share their honest accounts of the highs and lows of starting a business. Date: 27 April 2018, 4.30-6.30pm Venue: Tramshed Tech, Pendyris Street, Cardiff CF11 6BH, UK www.makeityourbusiness.co.uk

Financial Forum – Competitive Collaboration 2018 is set to be a game-changing year for the banking sector as the second payment

services directive, PSD2, comes into effect across the EU. It leaves banks more vulnerable than ever to rival ‘big tech’ companies and other fintech challengers looking to disrupt the financial services industry. Hosted by the Swedish Chamber of Commerce for the UK, this event will explore the future world of banking versus tech challengers. It will be followed by the SCC Spring Event. Date: 27 April 2018, 2-4.30pm Venue: TBA, London, UK www.scc.org.uk

By Sanne Wass | Photo: DUCC Date: 8-9 May 2018 Venue: Day 1: The Finnish Institute of London, 3 York Way, London N1C 4AE. Day 2: The Finnish Ambassador’s residence, 14 Kensington Palace Gardens, London W8 4QP. www.sportsmash.net

SMASH comes to London The Helsinki-based SMASH event is coming to London for the first time, bringing together Nordic and British sport and health tech start-ups, big industrial players and investors. The event will give you what the organisers call “two SMASHing days” of networking, top keynote speakers and pitching competitions. A perfect place to raise awareness, develop partnerships, launch new products and test your own pitching skills. Issue 111 | April 2018 | 105

Scan Magazine | Hotel of the Month | Sweden

Hotel of the Month, Sweden

On the border between land and sea Sandhamn is one of the most popular islands in Stockholm’s archipelago, and many visitors take the opportunity to stay at Sandhamn Seglarhotell for its idyllic setting, delicious food and fantastic atmosphere.

land and sea. The pub Almagrundet is another alternative, with a laid-back atmosphere and tasty bar food.

By Malin Norman | Photos: Sandhamn Seglarhotell

While Sandhamn Seglarhotell is a snug spot during the winter months, it has a more action-filled holiday destination vibe in the summer, with entertainment such as After Sail, a nightclub with DJs and live music on the terrace, and plenty of culinary options from three-course meals to pizza, burgers and fresh salads. The outdoor Sea Club, moreover, turns into a great hangout with bar food and drinks, offering wooden bathtubs and sauna rafts in addition to the pool. Guests can of course relax in the hotel’s spa throughout the year, with an indoor pool, a Jacuzzi and sauna facilities.

The experience at Sandhamn Seglarhotell starts already before arriving on the island, as the trip from Stockholm through the archipelago is nothing but spectacular. The charming Sandhamn makes a perfect island escape from the pulsing city, with beautiful nature drawing visitors all year round. “The setting really is fantastic, and when staying at the hotel, you are set for a complete archipelago experience,” says the hotel’s CEO, Pär Björkänge. Sandhamn has a long history as a sailing destination, and the classic four-star hotel has attracted countless guests over the years. Praised for its familiar and 106 | Issue 111 | April 2018

cosy atmosphere in particular, it is “like visiting someone’s house, with squeaky floorboards and relaxing armchairs. It feels like home,” says Björkänge. In addition to the 94 comfortable guest rooms and suites, a number of apartments are also available.

Restaurant with heritage Seglarrestaurangen, the hotel’s main restaurant, dates back to 1897. Described as the heart of Sandhamn, it serves fantastic food teamed with friendly service and panoramic sea views. Here, guests can enjoy a menu inspired by the archipelago – classic dishes with a modern twist – on the border between

Next to the outdoor pool area, the hotel has its own private harbour with space for 35 boats and access to the pool and

Scan Magazine | Hotel of the Month | Sweden

spa. Many guests who arrive with their own boat also take the chance to enjoy a lunch or dinner at Seglarrestaurangen, and perhaps stay the night before they continue their journey the following day.

Popular weekend packages From May to October, the hotel’s weekend packages are a hit, especially the ‘Relaxing Days in the Archipelago’ package. Björkänge elaborates on its popularity: “It’s a complete experience,” he says. “You will start with a fantastic boat trip, arriving in this beautiful environment where you can take a relaxing walk, maybe spend some time in our spa, followed by a lovely meal in our restaurant, and if you so wish, enjoy some music entertainment in the evening.” Sandhamn Seglarhotell is also a great destination for conferences and large groups for special occasions, with capacity for up to 150 people. As well as ideal conference facilities and accommodation options, the hotel offers a range of activities such as spa, cycling, sailing, kayaking and RIB boat trips. Why not also enjoy a nice stroll and check out the local bakery, cafés and small shops that are open in the summer? Plus, a short walk from the hotel is the beach Trouville, known for its lovely views and white sand. Regardless of the time of year, there is something for everyone at Sandhamn. Web: www.sandhamn.com Facebook: sandhmnseglarhotell Twitter: @Seglarhotellet Instagram: @sandhamnseglarhotell

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Scan Magazine | Hotel of the Month | Finland

Hotel of the Month, Finland

A unique experience of Nordic design and nature Ten minutes outside the buzzing city of Helsinki, surrounded by beautiful Finnish archipelago, the newly renovated Hanaholmen hotel and cultural centre welcomes visitors to modern facilities complemented by Nordic art, nature and design.

son. “Last year, for example, we hosted Ferrari’s Nordic gathering and gala dinner, as well as the Imago Awards ceremony with dinner.”

By Åsa Hedvig Aaberge | Photos: Hanaholmen

Hanaholmen is a combined cultural centre for Sweden and Finland, a hotel and meeting centre on a quiet island in Espoo. The centre arranges a variety of events such as courses and topical seminars about modern-day science, politics and economics, and the hotel also features a critically acclaimed restaurant, an art gallery and a traditional Finnish sauna and pool.

art, both inside and outdoors. During the summer of 2018, visitors can experience contemporary Swedish design at Gallery Hanaholmen and enjoy the exhibition Infinity Experience by Susanne Gottberg and Markus Kåhre in the art corridor. In the outdoor picture park, Anna Uddenberg’s Free Fall, Sweden’s gift to Finland for its 100-year independence anniversary, is exhibited.

“We feature a celebrated restaurant hailed as one of Helsinki’s best upcoming restaurants, and we welcome everyone who appreciates good food, design and a great sea view,” says hotel director Kai Mattsson.

The spacious rooms of Hanaholmen are newly renovated, decorated in the Nordic style and filled with natural light. Some rooms have minimal, elegant interiors, while others are defined by playful colours. Each room offers views of the maritime nature outside, and the building’s exceptional architecture has been nicely incorporated into the stunning, surrounding nature.

Nordic art and design set the atmosphere at Hanaholmen and are evident in all aspects of the hotel and its services. Spectacular Finnish archipelago and maritime nature surround the facilities, accompanied by a vast collection of Finnish and Swedish contemporary 108 | Issue 111 | April 2018

“Together, all our services provide a unique venue for high-end galas, parties and get-togethers,” says Matts-

The basic principles for Hanaholmen’s activities are to convey the benefits of Finnish-Swedish cooperation and to strengthen the Finns’ sense of belonging to the Nordic countries. Hanaholmen was first opened in 1975 by the Swedish King Carl Gustav XVI and Urho Kekkonen, the president of Finland at the time. “Last year, we reopened after a complete makeover of the building, again opened by the same Swedish King and our current president, Sauli Niinistö,” says Mattsson, who welcomes guests from all over the world to enjoy an exclusive Nordic experience at Hanaholmen.

Web: www.hanaholmen.fi

Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month | Sweden

Photo: Mathias Nordgren

Restaurant of the Month, Sweden

Late-night dining, Asian style TAKO is Stockholm’s hottest late-night dining experience. This exciting new concept offers an international vibe and a mix of sushi and barbeque dishes, inspired by Asian cuisine. By Malin Norman | Photos: TAKO

The new restaurant TAKO opened in October last year and is already a hit with the foodie crowd in Stockholm. Here, guests can enjoy lunch, dinner and latenight dining, or book a table for having cocktails. “The food is delicious and the atmosphere is great, especially in the evening,” says marketing manager Ida Schinkler. “When you come to TAKO, it feels like you enter another world!” The cuisine is a fusion of sushi and barbeque dishes, influenced by Korea and Japan, and created by a solid team with experienced sushi chef Nymaa Sarantuy and talented chef Martin Gradin. The Asian-inspired menu presents signature dishes such as Korean glazed ribs and Wagyu entrecote, as well as plenty of other tasty treats including vegan options. In the daytime, guests can choose between, for instance, bibimbap and bowls. The cocktail bar has an innovative angle to its drinks as well as a late-night menu with Asian-style bar food.

International vibe Through the obscure entrance and glowing staircase, guests enter the magical world of TAKO. The name translates as ‘dragon’ or ‘octopus’, and the venue has clear elements of mystic elegance and quirky twists, combined with a lively, urban atmosphere. Like the cuisine, it mixes Korean and Japanese influences, with an added Scandinavian touch. The unique space on Birger Jarlsgatan 29, historically known for its buzzing nightlife, was designed by renowned architecture firm

Tengbom and the graphic identity was created by Oscar Liedgren Studio. Behind the brand-new concept of TAKO is trio Christian Olsson, Kristofer Sandström and Niklas Odin from Stockholm Krogbolag. The well-established group also owns other popular restaurants such as Vassa Eggen, Tennstopet and Kommendören. Future plans for the successful newbie TAKO includes a latenight club with famous profiles from Stockholm’s nightlife. When in Stockholm, make sure not to miss this fabulous dining experience! Opening hours: Monday-Tuesday 5.30pm to midnight Wednesday-Saturday 5.30pm-1am Lunch available on weekdays 11.30am-2pm Address: Birger Jarlsgatan 29, 111 45 Stockholm

Web: www.restaurangtako.se Facebook: restaurangtako Instagram: @restaurangtako

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Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month | Denmark

Restaurant of the Month, Denmark

Common sense is back in food fashion For 27 years, Restaurationen has been providing guests with top-quality Danish gastronomy based on traditional, sustainable values. Behind the central Copenhagen brasserie are husband and wife Lisbeth and Bo Jacobsen, who, despite shifting trends, have never faltered to adhere to what they see as common sense. By Signe Hansen | Photos: Restaurationen

Restaurationen has, since its foundation in 1991, been centred on traditional values of sustainability, including the use of local, seasonal and, when feasible, organic produce. However, with the new sustainable food trends, the principles behind their 40-year-long career are suddenly being touted by a new generation of young chefs. The two chefs themselves are not concerned whether their way of cooking is trendy or not; for them, sticking to the sound principles of no-waste, seasonal produce and home cooking is just common sense. “The 110 | Issue 111 | April 2018

thing is, we’ve been in the industry for 40 years and the classic craftsmanship we’ve been brought up with is a no-waste craftsmanship. Food waste is a new thing,” explains Bo Jacobsen. “For us, the no-food-waste principle is not a conscious choice – food waste just doesn’t exist. It’s the same with regards to how we cook: we use everything in season, it’s part of how we were brought up.” Through the years, Restaurationen’s seasonally changing menu has continued to impress and please guests and

reviewers alike. Indeed, several recent reviews note that the New Nordic restaurants, with their molecular gastronomy and fusion cuisine, have nothing on Restaurationen’s experience, quality, and sound reason.

A love story Having met through work in 1981, Bo and Lisbeth Jacobsen have been working together for more than 30 years. When asked if the couple ever argue about things in the kitchen, Bo Jacobsen jokes: “No, like all other married couples we live together in perfect harmony!” But he adds: “No, of course we disagree about things at times, but in general we’re very much on the same page. We’re both children of families where mum cooked every day for real. When people say canned or frozen or ready-made, it’s just never been

Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month | Denmark

part of our life, not at home and not at work. We make everything on our own: bread, chocolate and sauces, everything is made in-house.” A little division of responsibilities has also helped to ensure a smooth running of things, with Lisbeth in charge of the baked goods, cheese and desserts, and Bo managing mains and starters.

Tradition and renewal Though the principles behind the cooking of Bo and Lisbeth Jacobsen have been unfaltering for 40 years, things have not been standing still. Seven years ago, Restaurationen’s concept changed from a fixed menu to a brassiere concept with an à la carte menu. The kitchen is constantly developing too, having drifted more and more towards classic Danish cuisine. “It’s very much evolution, not revolution,” explains Bo Jacobsen. “We don’t cook the same things we did 40 years ago, but the techniques are the same; we haven’t adopted new machinery and chemistry.

We don’t use thermo blenders to make foam, gel and so on, everything is made by hand, the old-fashioned way.” In the same way, the couple has maintained the restaurant’s classic interior, reflecting their own style and preferences with tablecloths, porcelain tableware, and modern art.

Back in fashion Despite the two chefs’ choice not to jump heedlessly onto new food trends, Bo and Lisbeth Jacobsen have in recent years found their common-sense principles back in fashion. Reviewers have noticed this too, with some noting that the restaurant is in reality more seasonal than many of the New Nordic restaurants touting the principles of sustainability. But to Bo Jacobsen, the revival of sustainable gastronomy is not that surprising. “There are not a lot of truly new things coming up – a few, but not a lot. After 40 years in the business, you have

seen most of what is happening before,” he says, but also stresses that the current trends, and in particular New Nordic cuisine, have been a welcome change in his industry. “New Nordic has had an enormously positive effect on Nordic cuisine. But when it comes to us, we are just crossed by fashion – suddenly we fit in. Food is fashion and we are back in fashion doing what we have always done.” Facts: Restaurationen is located in Møntergade in central Copenhagen. The restaurant’s private dining room has a capacity of up to 45 guests. Restaurationen’s menus include a seasonal à la carte menu (with main courses at 275 DKK) and a light, two-course late dinner and wine menu (495 DKK) served after 9pm.

Web: www.restaurationen.dk

Top left: Husband and wife Bo and Lisbeth Jacobsen have been running Restaurationen together for 27 years. Top middle: While Bo Jacobsen takes care of the mains and starters, Lisbeth Jacobsen is in charge of desserts, bread and cheese, as well as the general management of the restaurant. Top right: Served by its own kitchen, Restaurationen’s private dining room can host parties of up to 45 people.

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Scan Magazine | Experience of the Month | Denmark

Guldagergaard, one of the world’s leading centres within ceramic research and training, is hosting a special exhibition this April.

Experience of the Month, Denmark

A shoebox of world art Guldagergaard International Ceramic Research Center is celebrating the magic of life and art with a one-of-a-kind ceramic exhibition in April 2018. Inspired by director Mette Blum Marcher’s 40th birthday, the exhibition will present 40 shoeboxsized ceramic artworks from artists all over the world. By Signe Hansen | Photos: Guldagergaard

Tucked away in an historic farmhouse in Skælskør is Guldagergaard, one of the world’s leading research centres within ceramics. Since it was founded 21 years ago, the centre has been visited by 200 of the world’s most talented ceramic artists. In April, works by 40 of these artists will be presented in The Shoe Box Show, curated by Mette Blum Marcher, Guldagergaard’s director since 2009. “I wanted to create an exhibition that commemorated some of all of the wonderful people I have met working here,” 112 | Issue 111 | April 2018

explains Marcher. “At the same time, it’s about exploring the journey we all go through in life, from our first steps to our final realisation as human beings.” Located all over the world, the 40 selected artists will each send in their figurative ceramic artwork in a shoebox. After the show at Guldagergaard, the exhibition will travel on to Sweden, Norway and the US.

Global powerhouse It is no coincidence that The Shoe Box Show will exhibit works from artists all

over the world. Just like the centre’s original founders, Marcher has always prioritised nurturing and attracting international talent. “As humans, we can’t survive without close relationships, and the same goes for institutions. It’s very important, especially in a small country like Denmark and in a time like ours where a lot of people and groups are closing in around themselves, that artistic institutions maintain their international relationships and connections to the rest of the world,” stresses Marcher. As a part of this continuous international focus, Guldagergaard is currently in the process of expanding its current facilities with an educational centre and a large exhibition hall for international exhibitions. “It’s unique that we, in little Denmark, have a centre that is such a significant player on the global market,”

Scan Magazine | Experience of the Month | Denmark

says Marcher, who is coincidentally talking to Scan Magazine on the phone from the US. “Travelling and networking over here, I have had that confirmed again and again.”

and far. But despite the centre’s aim to have at least 80 per cent international artists-in-residence, the main purpose is to strengthen and expand the Danish ceramics scene.

Strong women in charge

“When it comes to ceramics, we are one of the eight leading centres in the world. Our artists-in-residence come here to find peace and time for immersion, but also because we have facilities that can’t be found anywhere else,” explains Marcher, adding: “The women who set up Guldagergaard had a vision of creating an international powerhouse to

Marcher shares her international vision with Guldagergaard’s original founders, female ceramists who from the very beginning wanted to create a global powerhouse within ceramics. Their ambition resulted in not just world-class facilities but also a reputation for excellence, which has attracted ceramists from near

strengthen and promote Danish ceramics, and that’s very much what we have done and are still doing. But when we have a fixed target of having at least 80 per cent artists from abroad, it’s because Denmark is such a small country and we need some international superstars from outside to help inspire and strengthen Danish ceramics.”

A magical place Initiated on the occasion of Marcher’s 40th birthday, The Shoe Box Show is a celebration of the magic and the talented artists that have passed through

Top right: Mette Blum Marcher has been the director of Guldagergaard since 2009. Photo: Christina Kabel. Left middle and bottom: Guldagergaard attracts some of the world’s leading ceramic artists, who live and work at the centre for a month at a time.

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Scan Magazine | Experience of the Month | Denmark

Tucked away in an historic farmhouse in Skælskør, Guldagergaard is surrounded by a beautiful sculptural park.

Guldagergaard. The 40 contributing artists are thus all previous participants in Guldagergaard’s resident artist programme who have left a special lasting impression at Guldagergaard and with its director. But the exhibition is also about celebrating the magic of Guldagergaard, life and art. “I was born just around the corner from Guldagergaard, and my childhood is filled with fascinating memories from this beautiful garden and all its magic. For many years, I would imagine that my favourite fairy tale Alice in Wonderland took place in Guldagergaard’s large park. And today, as a grown-up, I know for a fact that magic really does take place here,” says Marcher. “This way, The Shoe Box Show is also about celebrating magic, life and the different paths we choose, which might seem coincidental but when looked at from a larger perspective, all lead to our final destination.” 114 | Issue 111 | April 2018

Two and a half hours from London One of the perhaps surprising features of Guldagergaard is its location, which is, at least in Danish terms, out of proximity to the country’s bigger cultural hubs. However, this has never been a problem in attracting international talent; quite the contrary, says Marcher, as the local connection has always made for a strong foundation for the centre. “In a way, this is a bit of a gem, which not a lot of people know about, because the world of professional ceramics is rather small and closed. But on the other hand, the local environment supports us very much; when we open an exhibition, we have upwards of 400 visitors, and it is that support that makes this such a unique place.” Besides, for many of the international artists who come from larger countries such as China and the US, Skælskør does not at all seem far from anything. Located just about a 75-minute drive from Copenhagen

Airport, it actually strikes many as a convenient location for exploring more of Europe. “One of the great things about being an international centre in a local setting is that you meet people who see Skælskør not as being on the outskirts of Denmark, but as being just two and a half hours from London,” says Marcher. The Shoe Box Show Place: Æblehuset (Applehouse) Gallery, Guldagergaard Dates: 9 April to 30 May Featured artists include: Rain Harris, Malene Hartmann Rasmussen, Paul Scott among others. Admission: Admission to all exhibitions is 25 DKK. Admission to the centre’s beautiful surrounding sculptural park is free. Location: The centre is located in the town of Skælskør, an hour’s drive from Copenhagen.

Scan Magazine | Experience of the Month | Denmark

Information for artists: Guldagergaard is a non-profit institution with state funding from the Danish Ministry of Culture and the municipality of Slagelse. The centre’s ceramic facilities comprise a 720-square-metre studio building with gas kilns, electric kilns and wood fired kilns as well as a glaze, plaster and mould making workshop, a slip-casting room, an auditorium, a library for research, photo equipment, a 3D-print workshop, a silk screen print workshop and a wood workshop. Guldagergaard also offers a string of workshops and university programmes. Guldagergaard has a maximum of ten artists-in-residence every month. Most artists end their stay with a public exhibition at the centre, and many also contribute to the centre’s permanent studio collection, which is, with more than 1,000 pieces, the biggest in northern Europe.

Inspired by director Mette Blum Marcher’s 40th birthday, The Shoe Box Show will present 40 shoebox-sized ceramic artworks from artists all over the world. All photos on this page: Christina Kabel

Web: www.ceramic.dk Facebook: Guldagergaard

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Scan Magazine | Attraction of the Month | Norway

Vulkana offers adventures, culinary experiences and luxurious relaxation.

Attraction of the Month, Norway

Experience the Arctic from the comforts of a nautical spa In the deep Arctic fjords of Troms, surrounded by mountains and wild nature, you will find the old fishing boat Vulkana. Though the weather can get freezing cold with whirling snow, on board Vulkana you can get the ultimate break from the frosty outdoors. No longer used for fishing, the boat is now a nautical spa and restaurant, as well as a means of transport to new experiences and adventures. By Alyssa Nilsen | Photos: Vulkana Drift AS

The man behind the boat, Erlend Mogård-Larsen, has become known for innovative concepts across Norway. From sauna-based social hubs in Oslo, to rock festivals and giant food halls, Mogård-Larsen has a knack for coming up with new ideas and making them a very successful reality. So, when he found himself having bought a 50-yearold worn-down fishing boat, there was only one thing to do: work hard. To help with the project, Mogård-Larsen hired renowned Finnish architect Sami Rintala and Norwegian boat builder Gunnar 116 | Issue 111 | April 2018

Eldjarn to redesign and rebuild the interior of the boat. The result is a 70-foot-long experience and wellbeing boat containing a zen lounge, a Turkish steam bath – also known as a Hamam – a wood-fired Finnish sauna, an on-deck hot tub filled with sea water, and a restaurant serving fresh seasonal food. The design of the zen lounge is calming and organic with wooden interiors, a library, and a heated floor, using the naturally curved shape of the boat to create the perfect place to lean

back and relax in front of the open fireplace. The Hamam has a refreshingly cold water tub to balance out the hot steam, and the Finnish sauna features a panorama window with a view to the sea, with guests often opting to cool down in the icy fjord outside. For trips lasting longer than a day, there are seven cabins available with both single and queen-size beds.

Travel the fjords to new adventures If you crave a little bit more than just a relaxing day on board, the spa is only one of the perks of Vulkana. Helene Seglem, head of sales and marketing, explains that Vulkana offers trips and experiences tailored to the area, the seasons, and their guests. In the autumn, you can go on hikes or go hunting in the breathtakingly beautiful nature; in the winter and spring, you can sail through the fjords before going on skiing trips in the mountains of

Scan Magazine | Attraction of the Month | Norway

After a trip to the Finnish sauna, many guests opt to cool off in the fjords.

Lyngen; and in the summer, you can take a fjord cruise with the boat as base camp as you explore the coasts, fjords, and mountains of Troms – all in the company of professional guides from Lyngenguide and Bergbjørn Fjellservice in collaboration with Vulkana. Once back on the boat, you can soak tired legs and muscles in the soothing sauna or hot tub before enjoying a delicious meal prepared by the chefs on board. If you are lucky, you might even get to experience the northern lights or the midnight sun, before falling asleep to the sound and movement of the sea. This summer, Vulkana will also be arranging climbing courses at the island of Kvaløya. “The areas we’ll be climbing in are absolutely spectacular,” says Seglem, and explains that the trip will start with

bouldering in the smaller local hills before the boat heads out towards Sommarøy in the evening for some bigger climbs. The trip then continues onto Ersfjorden, before ending up at Vengsøytraversen as the last stop. “There, you will get to try out everything you have learned during the trip, and on the last day we’ll relax and have a barbecue before returning.” In addition, Vulkana offers Summer Adventures, a three-day trip around Kvaløya, where the groups booked in can choose what they would like to experience based on their level of fitness and training. “We can go kayaking, climbing or bird watching,” says Seglem, adding that the level of comfort on board Vulkana is a priority on these trips. “We like to make our trips as relaxing as possible,

and it’s important that our guests are comfortable at all times.” With the level of accommodation and luxury on board this boat, keeping guests comfortable as they sail from one location to the next is not a problem for Vulkana and its hardworking and welcoming crew. If you are looking for breathtaking scenery, adventure, and the comforts of a spa, Vulkana might just be the way to go. Bookings are now open for spring and summer 2018. Phone: +47 911 00 626 Web: www.vulkana.no Facebook: msVulkana Instagram: @vulkana_adventure

Vulkana’s own chefs prepare fresh seasonal food for their guests to enjoy.

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Scan Magazine | Artist of the Month | Norway

Left: The philosopher: The fruit of the knowledge tree, symbolising the best in man. Right: Three Billy goats gruff: Symbolises attitude, holding on to what you believe in and humanity.

Artist of the Month, Norway

An artist with an ethical focus “I believe art has an important purpose by touching the best in people and developing an aesthetic sensitivity and ethical consciousness,” says Norwegian black-and-white artist and sculptor Øystein Bernhard Mobråten. For him, the message conveyed through his artistic expression is the most important thing. By Ingrid Opstad | Photos: Erik Borgersen Emilia Forlag and Geir Holm

For 16 years, Mobråten was absorbed in the art of Greek sculpture and classical painting as a pupil and collaborator at Rolf Schönfeld’s special school of art. Afterwards, he worked with the theories from Goethe and Steiner, focusing on colour at Finn Moes evening school while attending various courses in old painting and casting techniques at Statens Teknologiske Institutt (STI). Today, the 118 | Issue 111 | April 2018

artist works both classically figuratively and in free forms of expression. His subjects are mainly animals and dream landscapes, leaning towards the symbolic as well as the surrealistic. Several of his animal subjects are fetched from mythology and Norwegian folklore. Born in 1940, Mobråten grew up on a small former farm outside Kongsberg in

Norway. In the yard of the farmhouse, he has in recent years established a sculpture park in connection with a gallery. A visit here is like entering another world: a world of adventures, feelings, moods – a world of peace and harmony, and one where the artistic expression and masterful execution make you think of the old classical masters. A world well worth a visit. His fascination with animal sculptures and the anatomy of animals started as a hobby from an early age. In his spare time, Mobråten learned the art of stuffing birds and other creatures, and this interest led him to the Zoological Muse-

Scan Magazine | Artist of the Month | Norway

um at Tøyen in Oslo, through his teacher. Eventually, this passion took over and he was offered training and employment as a taxidermist at the museum. It was soon discovered that, with his artistic talent, he could do much more than taxidermy, which resulted in the opportunity for him to take on a range of decoration tasks. Although described as a personally modest and introverted man, Mobråten nevertheless belongs to the leading group of sculptors. His classical figurative art stands far away from the modernist non-figurative direction dominating the artistic expressions of today.

Above: Knowledge guard: Knowledge comes with responsibility, but without wisdom, knowledge is a dangerous weapon.

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Scan Magazine | Artist of the Month | Norway

only when it came to an ascetic way of life but also discipline and full concentration on the studies. The art required that one had to free oneself from one’s ego, one’s vanity, and one’s self-importance.

Create the best in mankind Mobråten is concerned with the power of evolution and the place of humans in it as biological beings, and he acknowledges that we have a long evolutionary process behind us. Alongside this, he notices an inner spiritual evolution that raises human ethical awareness. For him, the art must primarily become an arena to raise awareness of our potential. “The most important task of art is to create the best in mankind,” is Mobråten’s key message.

Study in coal by Mobråten, created while attending the Rolf Schönfeld school of art.

Life ethics – keywords for the survival of mankind? Mobråten suggests that the term ‘art’ is inseparably linked to the development of aesthetic sensitivity, ethical search, and awareness. The starting point for his art is that it will bring out the best in people. Evolution is a wonderful and creative power for him; it is this recognition that is the intention behind his sculptures. Each of the art pieces has its own ethical message, and together they teach us about life ethics. “I see ethics as the built-in compass in humans, which helps us to orientate our way through life. This ethical value norm must be integrated into the art. Without ethical vitality, the art dies. The rough and simple effects of contemporary art, which today seem to have no purpose 120 | Issue 111 | April 2018

other than gaining attention and provoking for the sake of provocation, are unworthy. It is a failure of the art,” says Mobråten.

The Schönfeld School In the period of 1960-1987, Rolf Schönfeld was a remarkable educationalist in classical art in Oslo. Teaching privately at the National Gallery, he ran an arts and crafts school as well as an art academy. Several of his students were attracted by his strong personality and eventually became a sort of inner circle, offered elite education. Many of today’s famous names within the sculpture-art world have at some point attended the Schönfeld School. Schönfeld was a significant inspirer of classical art, which put strict demands on his students in the inner circle, not

In close collaboration with biologists at the University of Oslo, Mobråten created one of his most important pieces of work, a reconstruction of the human species Homo floresiensis from the Flores Island in Indonesia. This was the place where the newly discovered human species Homo floresiensis was uncovered in 2003, an extinct species that lived there more than 15,000 years ago. The sculpture was unveiled in 2006 and is now a permanent feature at the Department of Biosciences at the University of Oslo. Inside the walls of the Kristine Bonnevie Hus at the University of Oslo, you can discover the 25-metre-long panoramic mount created by Mobråten on commission by the department. The artwork was unveiled in 1988 by the headmaster of the University of Oslo, Inge Lønning. It was dedicated to the memory of Kristine Bonnevie, Norway’s first female professor in biology, and her research. Inside the mount, Mobråten referred to his artwork as ‘Kristine Høegh Bonnevie’s spiritual testament’, because the content presents important aspects of her perception of life: that man lives up to the best in his own nature, to accountability and self-control. Øystein Bernhard Mobråten is active in the Association of Sculptors, the Union of Black & White Artists, BBK and NBK (Norwegian Visual Artists).

Scan Magazine | Artist of the Month | Norway

Reconstruction of Homo floresiensis.

Web: www.mobraaten.com Email: bernhardmo@hotmail.com YouTube: Eight selected sculptures and Mobråten’s own presentation of them can be seen and heard on YouTube – just search for Øystein Bernhard Mobråten.

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Scan Magazine | Conference of the Month | Denmark

The former cloister garden, now known as The Pyramid.

Conference of the Month, Denmark

An ancient castle for modern times What do you get when you marry a castle with 400 years of history and a determined lady looking to begin the next chapter of her life? You get a beautiful, ever-evolving oasis at Sostrup Castle in eastern Jutland, a former monastery that has entered a new stage of life too, as a home away from home for anyone who needs it – everyone from nuns and families to business people and wedding parties. By Louise Older Steffensen | Photos: Sostrup Slot

Kirsten Bundgaard Swift was visiting her Danish family for Christmas 2014 after 30 years in the US, when she happened to hear about a local Renaissance castle for sale amidst the forests and beaches on Djursland, just 30 minutes north of Aarhus airport. She thought a visit would make for a fun excursion during the seasonal gluttony, but Bundgaard Swift had not reckoned on falling in love with the place. “We were shown around by a former nun, Sister Christiane,” she recalls, “and Sostrup had this sense of both adventure and tranquillity about it, which I thought many people could benefit from in their busy lives.” Sostrup was built by the noblewoman Sophie Bille between 1599 and 1606. Legend holds that it will sink into the moat that surrounds it one Christmas 122 | Issue 111 | April 2018

Eve and as a precaution, the later owner, Jørgen ‘the Wild Count’ Scheel, stayed in a nearby village every Christmas. The nobility and their flights of fancy left Sostrup in 1943, though numerous traces of their lives and belongings remain. The castle became a camp for war refugees, then a boarding school, and finally a Cistercian convent in 1960. “It’s important to recognise that places like Sostrup have valuable histories and a constancy to them, of course, but also that they’ve never been stagnant: they survive by constantly evolving,” Bundgaard Swift adds. The sisters’ beautiful Maria Hjerte Church, which now hosts weddings and concerts, and spacious, elegant convent add modern, minimalist accommodation and event rooms to Sostrup’s numerous older nooks and crannies.

The 14th-century Boulder Building rooms, meanwhile, have been upgraded with modern AV-technology and can accommodate 30 to 120 people each, while The Pyramid, the former cloister garden, seats up to 300 conference or 220 private dinner guests beneath its spectacular new glass ceiling. The castle itself is open to groups and Sostrup’s overnight visitors, and houses the New Nordicinspired dining hall. “I believe we can help out Sostrup by opening it up to anyone who’d benefit from its joy and wish to explore this huge old place. If you get lost, my top survival tip is that the Virgin Mary statue points to the kitchens.”

Web: www.sostrup.org Facebook: Sostrup Slot Denmark

Scan Magazine | Humour | Columns

IS IT JUST ME…

By Mette Lisby

Who occasionally engages in conversations marvelling at new technology with sentences like, ‘I can’t even remember what life was like before mobile phones – they’ve really revolutionised the world’? It got me thinking, honestly: if it really had revolutionised the world, would you not be able to very distinctively remember being without it? Would we not remember walking around without mobile phones, contemplating losing the will to live because that is how horribly badly life sucked without them? Would people not say stuff like, “Oh, I remember those days before I could call my friends and talk endlessly about nothing from everywhere. It was horrible! I was barely able to live.” The truth is that life was not actually vastly different. The quality of life certainly was not. Yes, there are obvious advantages. In emergencies, obviously – but in non-life-threatening everyday situations, how did mobile phones change our world? Well, as I explain to perplexed, horrified teenagers when they burst out with: “What did you DO? How did you survive without mobile phones?”, for one thing we made

appointments about where to meet, instead of just showing up in the proximity and then calling people to find them. Also, fun fact: when we had appointments, we made an actual effort not to be late. We agreed on what to bring to a party before we left home. And when going grocery shopping, we knew what we went shopping for before we stood in the cereal aisle, so we did not have to call and check whether our household really was out of Cookie Crisps. We memorised phone numbers. When we had a thought we wanted to share, we remembered it for later. When we were on public transportation, we would stare into thin air and, sometimes for hours on end, not express ourselves. We would take the world in, instead of constantly taking our emotions and opinions out on the world. So on a broader, everyday note: could it be that all mobile phones really taught us

Time Swedes are a timely bunch. If a Swede tells you they will meet you at one, they will expect to meet at one. Not so in the UK. Here, things are more complicated. A few examples: Be on time for work. You are allowed to be a little late for a dinner at a restaurant. You must NEVER be early for a dinner at someone’s house. Brits are a socially skilled bunch, and most of these rules make perfect sense when explained, but I still can’t help but wonder: would it not be easier just to choose a time and stick to it? What if seven o’clock really meant seven o’clock? It would solve a number of issues. For example, my dinner parties would greatly improve. I’m not a good cook, and I’m definitely not a good cook when distracted – for example when I have to discuss which B-road early guests used to get to my house, or how awful the weather is, as is compulsory. My food is then made

is to be sloppier, louder, more thoughtless, less committing, and not that good at remembering things? Maybe that is why we do not remember that life was actually just as great without them. Mette Lisby is Denmark’s leading female comedian. She invites you to laugh along with her monthly humour columns. Since her stand-up debut in 1992, Mette has hosted the Danish version of Have I Got News For You and Room 101.

By Maria Smedstad

wait for the really late guests. By the time everyone has arrived, the food is not only bad, but also stone-cold, which, luckily, no one notices due to the unfortunate ratio of aperitifs to snacks. “It’s a finely tuned system,” my English friends explain when I bring up the subject of poor time-keeping. “What are you going to expect next – that we take our shoes off indoors?!”

worse through my attempts to get unevenly spaced guests to feel comfortable, by plying them with aperitifs and spontaneous, inadequate pre-dinner snacks, as we

Maria Smedstad moved to the UK from Sweden in 1994. She received a degree in Illustration in 2001, before settling in the capital as a freelance cartoonist, creating the autobiographical cartoon Em. Maria writes a column on the trials and tribulations of life as a Swede in the UK.

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Nordic design culture: Putting the child’s needs first Known both as a family utopia and as a global leader in innovative, functional and sustainable design, it comes as no surprise that the Nordic region is also behind some of the most cherished and celebrated design items for children. Inspired by Ellen Key’s book Century of the Child, the V&A Museum of Childhood now presents an exhibition celebrating the creativity of children and child-friendly design from the Nordics. By Linnea Dunne

Century of the Child: Nordic Design for Children 1900 to Today is a first in the UK. Never before have so many iconic, influential Nordic childhood designs been presented together in Britain. Boasting a collection of everything from BRIO and Lego to Marimekko and the Moomins, the exhibition is all about design that answers the emotional, physical and developmental needs of children, all with a playful use of form and materials.

Scandinavian stories in a charming storytelling hut or watch the Moomins or Pippi Longstocking in the cinema. The British precursor to LEGO is also available to be explored. Nordic icons such as Arne Jacobsen and Alvar Aalto contribute to making the atmosphere and interior design beautifully functional, while classics such as IKEA, BabyBjörn, Tetra Pak and Helly Hansen naturally feature too.

Among other things, visitors can have a go at building their own flat pack Peter’s chair, play with LEGO bricks, listen to

Having debuted at the Swedish art and design museum Vandalorum in 2014, the exhibition has been recast to suit UK au-

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Championing children’s rights

diences and now includes an addition that looks at Nordic design and the cultural interchange with the UK. Published over a century ago, the book that inspired the exhibition championed children’s rights, creative freedom and greater connection with nature, and these very themes are evident throughout the entire exhibition. “These views are still relevant to children growing up today, and they have influenced the sustainable, child-centred and child-led designs found in Nordic art, literature, architecture and furniture,” says curator Katy Canales. The exhibition, she explains, highlights the significance of children’s creative freedom and the role that creative design plays in enabling it – values that are closely aligned with those at the V&A Museum of Childhood. “We aspire to promote children’s agency and playfulness through art, design and performance.”

Scan Magazine | Culture Feature | Nordic Design for Children

‘A zealot for all things Nordic’ A recent fascination with Scandinavia has seen a wide range of products and movements take the world by storm, including everything from Nordic Noir and Danish design to self-help and cook books. This, believes the curator, can be linked to a number of indices pointing to the Nordic countries as the happiest, most stable, safest and best-governed countries in the world. Understandably, she suggests, people elsewhere want a piece of the same success by adopting elements of the Nordic lifestyle.

Artek’s Toto Wooden Dolls. Photo: Artek

Currently expecting her first child, Canales admits to being smitten by all the cute and clever designs on display at her place of work. “After being involved in this exhibition, I’m a total zealot for all things Nordic,” she laughs. “I’ve been heavily swayed by the sustainable, robust and emotionally intelligent designs of the Juno bed and the Tripp Trapp chair, which grow with the child. They are both on my wish list.” She is most fond, however, of the iconic Kay Bojesen wooden monkey from 1951. “This playful, cheery toy encapsulates great craftsmanship and care. Its cheeky face, flexible limbs and the sheer tactility of the teak and limba woods make this a toy that people of all ages still want to pick up and play with,” she says. Century of the Child: Nordic Design for Children 1900 to Today runs at the V&A Museum of Childhood in Bethnal Green, London, until 2 September.

Above, left: Kay Bojesen’s wooden monkey, 1951. © Rosendahl Design Group. Above, right: LEGO Mini Figure, 1978. Photo: Johann Bergenholtz. Below left: The LÖMSK chair from IKEA. Below, left: What it is is beautiful, LEGO advertisement, 1981. Photo: ©2014, The LEGO Group.

Web: www.vam.ac.uk/moc

Jessie M. King’s doll’s house, 1912.

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Scan Magazine | Culture | Strandingsmuseum St George / Column

Stories from the sea

By Louise Older Steffensen | Photos: Strandingsmuseum St George

On Christmas Eve 1811, the British Royal Navy ships of the line HMS St George and HMS Defence were wrecked just off Thorsminde on Denmark’s treacherous west coast. Only 17 men survived – 1,300 drowned, and many of them were buried in the sandy dunes along the coast, still today known as the ‘Dead Men’s Dunes’. The nearby Strandingsmuseum St George tells the dramatic story of this tragedy, the region’s many other wrecks, and the resilient local population’s encounters with sailors from across the globe. “We like to say that our exhibitions are curated by the sea,” says Ingeborg Svennevig, director of the region’s cultural history museums. “It’s been a ruthless neighbour to the local population but also their greatest source of both income and information.” The area’s inhabitants were sometimes able to salvage exotic artefacts from unfortunate ships, but it was the interactions with traders and survivors, many of whom were nursed back to health in the local community, which provided some of the most fascinating cultural meetings. As the famous local author and explorer Ludvig Mylius-Erichsen put it: “We may live a remote life out here in the dunes, but the sea jolly well makes sure we learn everything from the distant regions of the Earth.”

The museum was founded in 1992 to accommodate a large, joint BritishDanish project to salvage the HMS St George and the time capsule-like belongings its seamen left behind. In May 2017, the Strandingsmuseum St George reopened in new buildings with new exhibitions that

Scandinavian music Danish superstar MØ has just come out with the most joyfully pop-tastic song that she has ever put her name to. It is a track from the Love, Simon soundtrack, which Jack Antonoff (that is Mr. Lena Dunham, to you and I) has produced. On Never Fall In Love, he gives MØ full, bittersweet rein to sing gleefully about heartache. It is a camp ‘80s disco tune that would not have sounded out of place in Black Mirror’s famed San Junipero episode. And just you wait until you hear that keychange. Klara & Jag are two Swedish singers and songwriters, who have been writing music together for the last eight years. Fake It Til’ You Make It, however, is only their second single, released in March – a gloriously kitsch song that unashamedly merges ABBA influences with Baccara styles, and understandably sounds incredible as a result. I love that two artists are 126 | Issue 111 | April 2018

have thrilled both visitors and critics. “One of my favourites is the tower featuring the newly recovered, original rudder of the HMS St George in what we believe is one of the world’s largest display cases,” Svennevig enthuses. “Above the rudder, our guests have a beautiful view of the Danish west coast – the very coast where all these stories took place.” Web: www.strandingsmuseet.dk/en/ Facebook: strandingsmuseum Instagram: @strandingsmuseumstgeorge

By Karl Batterbee

doing this in 2018 and sounding so good with it. Last month, I mentioned a couple of the Nordic entries for this year’s Eurovision Song Contest in May: a Viking from Denmark and a UK X-Factor runner-up from Finland. The Swedes have now chosen their song too, voting for Dance You Off by Benjamin Ingrosso (the crown prince of the Ingrosso/Wahlgren dynasty – the Swedish Kardashians, for the uninitiated) to represent them in Lisbon. Norway, meanwhile, decided it is time to trade on former glories, inviting back former winner Alexander Rybak. His entry, That’s How You Write A Song, fails to live up to its promising title though, and will be lucky to make it out of its semi-final next month. That is how you tarnish a winner’s legacy. The less said about Iceland’s Eurovision entry, however, the better. Though let me

end on a positive note. One artist coming out of Iceland right now, and getting everyone very excited, is BRÍET. Check out her debut EP, 22.03.99 (presumably her birth date – when did artists start being born that late?!) or, if you are in a hurry, the songs In Too Deep and Twin. Major feels.

www.scandipop.co.uk scandipop@gmail.com

Scan Magazine | Culture | Calendar

Above and below: Mackmyra whisky. Press photos

Scandinavian Culture Calendar – Where to go, what to see? It’s all happening here!

By Sanne Wass

Mackmyra whisky tasting (13 April) Join the Birmingham Whisky Club when it invites guests for a Swedish-themed evening at the Rummer in Bristol. Here, Mackmyra’s ambassador will guide visitors through a line-up of the brand’s old favourites, new releases and some special cask whiskies. Learn more about Mackmyra’s innovative use of Sweden’s abundant natural resources to develop a special sweetness that has become one of the cornerstones of its whisky – and you will of course get a chance to taste it yourself. 7pm. The Rummer, All Saints Lane, Avon BS1 1JH, UK. www.eventbrite.com Issue 111 | April 2018 | 127

Scan Magazine | Culture | Calendar

Ghost Iris. Press photo

Scandinavian Invasion (18 April) It is not for nothing that this concert tour goes under the name Scandinavian Invasion, presenting a mix of progressive metalcore from Denmark, alternative metal from Norway and post-hardcore from Sweden. Whatever Scandinavian metal you are into, make sure to join the three bands Ghost Iris, Fight The Fight and Awake The Dreamer when they visit London as part of their European tour. 7pm. 229 Great Portland Street, London W1W 5PN, UK. www.high5ive.se/scandinavianinvasiontour

Jonna Kina’s SOMNIVM exhibition (until 22 April) This is the last chance to pass by Beaconsfield Gallery Vauxhall in London to see SOMNIVM, an exhibition by Finnish contemporary artist Jonna Kina. The multidisciplinary artist works with a va128 | Issue 111 | April 2018

riety of media, from films, installations and photographs to sounds, texts and publications. This exhibition is inspired by the marble quarries of Carrara, Italy, where the artist filmed material for her work last winter. Beaconsfield Gallery Vauxhall, 22 Newport St, London SE11 6AY, UK. www.fininst.uk

Copenhagen Royal Chapel Boys’ Choir (4-7 May) Copenhagen Royal Chapel Boys’ Choir, one of Scandinavia’s oldest choral foundations, will visit the UK in early May. The tour will include an evening concert jointly with the Canzona Baroque Ensemble at St James’ Church Piccadilly on 4 May, an early evening recital and choral evensong with King’s College Choir in Cambridge on 5 May, and an appearance at the Danish Church’s regular service at on 6 May, before the 30

young singers finally round off the tour at Westminster Abbey on 7 May. www.facebook.com/anglodanishsociety

Bugge Wesseltoft (5 May) This spring, Norwegian jazz pianist and composer Bugge Wesseltoft continues his solo piano tour in favour of his new album, Everybody Loves Angels. The tour will see him perform all over Europe, including at Ribble Valley Jazz Festival in Clitheroe, UK. The festival will host an intimate hour-long workshop, which will give an insight into Wesseltoft’s career as a musician, followed by a concert performance of his solo work, which covers everything from melodic piano parts to experimental and atonal music and noise with a strong, free improvisational component. Workshop 6pm, concert 7.30pm. The Grand, 18 York Street, Clitheroe BB7 2DL, UK. www.rvjazzfestival.co.uk

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Summer Bazaar at the Danish Church (12 May 2018) Every year, the Danish Church in London attracts thousands of visitors to its Summer Bazaar. And so once again this spring, the church and garden will be transformed into a grand Danish bazaar with stands, stalls and lots of activities for children. Join other Danes and Denmark-lovers for a day of Scandinavian design, crafts, books, antiques and groceries, and of course to enjoy some classic Danish smørrebrød and beer. The Danish Church in London, 4 St Katharine’s Precinct, Regent’s Park, London NW1 4HH, UK. www.danskekirke.org

Víkingur Ólafsson (12 May) A respected performer in his native Iceland, Pianist Víkingur Ólafsson is establishing himself as one of the world’s finest young pianists and has been heralded “Iceland’s Glenn Gould” by The

Bugge Wesseltoft. Press photo

Copenhagen Royal Chapel Boys’ Choir. Photo: Luca Berti

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Scan Magazine | Culture | Calendar

New York Times. Appearing at the LSO St Luke’s church in London, he will revisit and rewire Bach’s compositions, performing a selection of works he has recorded for release later this year. 2pm. LSO St Luke’s, 161 Old St, London EC1V 9NG, UK. www.barbican.org.uk

a veritable ‘smörgåsbord’ of delights, including gravad lax, pickled mackerel, potato salad, rye and raisin loaf, venison meatballs with beetroot and caraway, and spiced apple and sour cherry cake. 9.30am. The Assembly House, Theatre Street, Norwich NR2 1RQ, UK. www.richardhughescookeryschool.co.uk

Bankeryds Kyrkokör in Oxford (12 May)

Susanne Sundfør (21 May)

The Swedish choir Bankeryds Kyrkokör will return to Saint Giles’ Church in Oxford for this Saturday evening concert. The programme promises an evening with beautifully blended sound, sacred music and Swedish songs of springtime. 7.30pm. Saint Giles’ Church, 10 Woodstock Road, Oxford OX2 6HT, UK. www.eventbrite.co.uk

Scandinavian table cooking class (19 May) Hosted by Richard Hughes Cookery School in Norwich, this hands-on practical class will teach you how to be a true Scandinavian in the kitchen. By the end of the day you will know how to create

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After a sold-out tour in her native Norway earlier this year, Susanne Sundførwill bring her critically acclaimed Music for People in Trouble production – an audio-visual experience and immersive show – to the Barbican in London. Classically trained, the singer/songwriter’s music ranges from charming folksong to throbbing synth-pop with minimal instrumentation and lots of emotion. 7.30pm. Barbican Centre, Silk Street, London EC2Y 8DS, UK. www.barbican.org.uk

Aalto Natives exhibition at Helsinki’s contemporary art museum Kiasma has been described as a “humorous yet critical examination of Finnish identity that involves creativity, nerdy humour and a cast of national celebrities”. It was created by artist duo Erkka Nissinen and Nathaniel Mellors, who represented Finland at the 2017 Venice Biennale, one of the most significant art events in the world. Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma, Mannerheiminaukio 2, 00100 Helsinki, Finland. www.kiasma.fi

Nathaniel Mellors and Erkka Nissinen at Kiasma (until 9 September) Exploring themes such as national identity, creation myths and nationalism, the

Above and below: Richard Hughes Cookery School. Press photos

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Susanne Sundfør. Press photo

Issue 111 | April 2018 | 131

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