Interior Stylist & Designer Susanna Vento from Finland has melted our hearts time and time again with her gorgeous styling. She has an inspiring, highly creative and fun personality which totally translates into her work. Her careful selection of accessories and minimalist approach, as well as the delicate details and contrasts featured in her work…we are in awe! Have a look at her website for loads of inspiration, and check out her lovely home!
Where did it all started?
I graduated as an interior designer in 1998. I did my work practice for the leading interior design magazine at that time. After my internship I was offered a work contract and I happily worked for the magazine for almost 10 years. In 2007 I was offered a job at Deko magazine, which I currently work for.
How would you describe your style?
Modern, purified and Scandinavian style, carried out without too much of seriousness. Personality, spirit and imagination are needed. I like to combine new, old and classics as well as self-made things. In my opinion, interior design requires layers made of colours, materials and styles but most importantly the mix needs to be stylish. Interior design is not serious business.
Favorite material to work with:
At the moment I am thrilled about wood, splintery raw wood planks, massive planks and plywood; the type of forest cottage materials. I am also inspired by kraft paper and cardboard.
Any special projects at the moment?
The latest annual fair I’ve taken part into was the biggest Finnish interior design fair organized in Helsinki just a little while ago. I had the chance to design two stands to the fair. I still am really thrilled about that. At work I am currently working on the Scandinavian Christmas design issue, which will come out in early October. It is fun to play Christmas already in September/October!
Best thing about being a stylist/designer:
One can create imaginative and courageous settings/interiors, which aim at startling, inspiring and offering tips for interior design – rocking the safe and dull style. Too often people tend to decorate their houses in a too subtle, uniform and completely impersonal manner. I want to inspire people to decorate, to find their own more spirited style that still can stand time.
You, in three words:
Creative, funny, mother.
What inspires you?
When I walk around the city, ambiance inspires me. Stylish spaces, for example a cleverly decorated shop or office, people passing by (fashion), posters, shop window stickers, flyers (graphics) all together portray what is going on.
“I’m at my most creative when…”:
… at that very moment when I get the assignment. I get most and best ideas right in the beginning when the practical restraints, such as budget/schedule/execution etc., are not blocking creativity.
Best thing(s) about Scandinavia:
The sparse, simplified and honest style that comes from the forest nation’s poor history.
Favourite designer:
Naoto Fukasawa (design), Maija Louekari (grafics)
Best design piece you purchased?
2 x Bertoia: Diamond-chair.
Best address-book secret:
Various flea markets and recycling centers.
On your wish list:
New kitchen and bathroom are coming due to the plumbing renovations in our house. I’d also need a new dust bin (possibly a medium size VIPP), tablecloth with black background, either Frösö Handtryckin Rut or 10Gruppenin Rope as well as Plusminuszero’s white coffee maker.
What can’t you live without?
My family.
Scandinavian tradition(s) you love:
Sauna-bathing at a summer cottage. Nothing beats the atmosphere and the scent that comes from a wood-heated sauna by a lake. After the sauna, campfire sausages and coffee made in a pot. With a full tummy one can go to sleep between mangled, crisp and fresh smelling cotton sheets.
Favorite travel spot:
Amsterdam. Bold design and skilled designers. Perfectly sized city for walking around and popping by to admire Droog design, Moooi and Frozen Fountain.
You, in five years:
I hope to be able to still make inspiring interior designs. I would also like to design furniture and try graphic design. Maybe I am a mother of two, too.
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