A large part of September's Habitare, the furniture, interior decoration and design fair in Finland, was focused on awards given to young Finnish designers and design students. This year’s theme, “private space,” was organized by the Finnish Fair Corporation and the Aalto University School of Arts. Three designers received awards based on this theme, and three others based on their eco-friendly designs.

Tomas Nordstrom & Hanna Jahkonen

The winner of the 2012 Habitare Design Competition was Leo Lindroos with his design “Sunset Camera.” Lindroos received the €6,000 main prize. Two other prizes were awarded to Erkko Aarti and the designer duo Hanna Jahkonen and Tomas Nordström.

Boris Berlin, head judge of the competition, announced the winners at the conclusion of the Habitare Fair.

“Leo Lindroos’ design ‘Sunset Camera’ conceals light under two different structures,” Berlin said.  “An incredible moving image of changing light brings the beauty of a sunset to urban people to experience, creating a meditative state and sensation.”

Lee Lindroos

The contestants in the competition, now held for the 11th time, were required to design and implement their ideas for a private space intended for personal retreat, break, rest and relaxation. The grand prize was donated by the Finnish Fair Foundation, and this year the head judge chose to award three designs.

Three designers were also given awards at the 2012 EcoDesign special exhibition. James Irvine, Rudi Merz and Sebastian Sandelin shared the €5,000 prize donated by the Finnish Fair Foundation. The winners were chosen by designer Kristiina Lassus, who acted as the chair of the jury and curator of the exhibition.

After a successful fair this year, Habitare has announced that its next fair will take place September 18-22, 2013, and will include another design competition and various exhibitions and showcases.