Habitare Talents
Habitare Talents 2026 – introducing four creatives of the new wave of design
Habitare Talents 2026 highlights four multidisciplinary creators from the new generation of designers who move seamlessly between artistic practice, design, and craftsmanship. The works of Iina Kettunen, Waltter Mahlberg, Carlo Raymann, and Rita Vaali emphasize a creative union of form and material that challenges the traditional ethos of functionality in favor of a rougher, more archaic aesthetic.
“The designers’ shift from mass production toward unique collector’s items reflects both the challenges of industry cost structures and a desire for individuality and slow processes,” say Elina Aalto and Saara Renvall from Imu Design.
Imu Design is responsible for curating and producing the exhibition. The 2026 jury also included Habitare’s creative advisor Päivi Helander and designer Reeta Laine, with Habitare producer Ida Ågren serving as the competition secretary. The exhibition will be on view at the Helsinki Exhibition and Convention Centre from September 2–6, 2026.
Iina Kettunen
Iina Kettunen is a concept-driven designer who works at the intersection of design and art. Her background as a textile and accessory designer brings a sensitivity to materials, details, and proportions. For her, objects are not merely functional, but also tools for observing, experiencing, and understanding the surrounding world.
Waltter Mahlberg
Waltter Mahlberg is a modern craftsman. He creates sculptural objects, functional furniture, and combinations of the two. Mahlberg’s artistic practice emphasizes the relationship between the maker and the material, as well as their presence. Mahlberg is particularly interested in how to express the movement that emerges from the material itself.
Carlo Raymann
Carlo Raymann is an interior architect and artist based in Helsinki. The wooden sculptures and functional objects he creates are built on the terms of form, respecting practicality and durability. The machining marks left by power tools give the works character, creating a connection between traditional themes and design language and contemporary working methods.
Rita Vaali
Rita Vaali is a designer and visual artist whose work centers on textiles, particularly weaving and pattern design. A versatile use of color and an illustrative approach are essential parts of her expression.Her exploration of traditional fabric structures and their experimental application has been as a recent source of inspiration for her work.
