Finarte is a Finnish rug design house which has remained competitive in recent years. Unja Nuotio, Content Creator at Finarte, talks to us about the company's history, the current global market challenges and Finarte's forward focus through its new collection "Poet", which draws its inspiration from the life-affirming attitudes and transformative thinking of the Renaissance.
Unja Nuotio and on the right the new Poet collection.
Can you tell me a little bit about the history of Finarte and how it was founded?
'Finarte is a leading design rug house in Finland, founded in 1985 by textile artist Eija Rasinmäki and businessman Erkki Immonen. However, its roots go back to the 1970s when Eija, inspired by a loom gifted by her mother, created unique rag rug designs that merged artistry with practicality. This innovation became the foundation of Finarte, which has since evolved into a premier Finnish design brand specializing in rugs. Today, Finarte remains a family-run business with a strong focus on blending Finnish design, sustainability, and traditional Indian craftsmanship.
Finarte works with both established and up-and-coming Finnish designers to create rugs and home textiles that prioritise sustainability and creativity. Its products are handcrafted in India, where the company has built a long-standing partnership with local artisans for over 30 years.'
In what markets is the brand most active?
'Finarte is most active in Finland, but its presence is expanding in international markets. Currently, the online store primarily serves Europe, but there is a growing number of orders from outside the EU, especially from the USA and Asia. Additionally, Finarte's products are widely available through various retailers in Finland, and the brand has a significant presence in Finnish interior design shops. Beyond Finland, Finarte also has a number of retailers across Europe, with the largest markets being in Germany, France, and the Netherlands.'
Do you notice any challenges with the current economy?
'Like many other businesses, Finarte is facing challenges brought on by the global economy. While demand for sustainable, well-crafted products continues to rise, inflation and economic uncertainty have posed some difficulties. Nonetheless, Finarte remains optimistic about the future, relying on its long-standing expertise, commitment to sustainability, and strong brand heritage.'
The Kertomus rug.
You recently launched a new collection, Poet. Can you tell me more about this?
'Finarte's Poet collection is a continuation of its mission to fuse creativity with tradition. The collection showcases handmade designs that combine bold aesthetics with traditional craftsmanship, remaining true to the company's dedication to sustainability and quality. Inspired by the Renaissance—a period celebrated for its life-affirming attitudes and transformative thinking—the Poet collection embodies the era's free-flowing expression, similar to the rhythm of poetry. The collection draws on these influences, balancing tradition with creative freedom.
The standout piece in the collection is the Kertomus rug, designed by Finarte's head designer, Marianne Huotari. This exquisite rug blends wool and Tencel, with a design influenced by traditional Kelim rugs. Huotari notes that the vibrant colors and simplified geometric patterns of the rug allow it to tell new stories in modern homes, offering a bold continuation of traditional design.'
What are the future plans of Finarte?
'Looking ahead, Finarte aims to further expand its use of recycled materials and continue focusing on responsible design and production. The company also plans to increase its global presence while staying true to its core values of craftsmanship, sustainability, and bold, innovative design.'
More information:
Finarte
[email protected]
www.finarte.fi
Finland