Arctic Q

Helsinki – FinlandRetail

Drawing bold lines through space and in a choreographed dance of color and light, the concept for the shop interior of Arctic Q is inspired by the most colorful moments of Finnish nature. Yatofu’s effervescent transformation of the existing concept shop redefines how the natural environment can be translated through design, and ultimately serves as a love letter to the vibrancy that can be found in Nordic scenery.

With a contemporary aesthetic and lively feel, the design for the shop interior utilizes undulating surfaces and dynamic forms to create nuances with shadow and light. A spatial centerpiece of dichroic class is added to incorporate reflective qualities to the space, and untreated iron fixtures add rawness and weight to ground the interior’s lightness.

Arctic Q sits on a shaded corner in one of the neighborhood’s many historic brick buildings. The striking contrast between the façade’s rough and muted bricks and the energetic vibrancy of the shop’s colorful interior allows the business to stand out at street level.

A coral line drawn through space serves as a dynamic yet functional display system for the shop’s products. Custom display accessories such as shelves, mirrors and screens allow for a versatile and unique way of presenting the store’s merchandise.

Interior photography: Meela Leino
Still-life photography: Aleksi Tikkala
Still-life stylist: Piia Emilia