Mifuko Designer Spotlight: The Story Behind The Ethical Company That Marries Scandinavian Design and Kenyan Craft

For Minna Impiö and Mari Martikainen — the design duo behind Mifuko — the significance of Scandinavian design lies in its simplicity. According to Minna and Mari, “Scandinavian products fit in many interiors and styles. They are timeless.”

Not only do the designers and long-time friends have a passion for Scandinavian design, they have been greatly influenced by nature in both Kenya and Finland. This affinity for these two countries and their love of design is the reason they launched Mifuko in 2009.

To commence our Designer Spotlight series, we’re highlighting this Finnish World Fair Trade brand, sharing their inspiring story, design style, and why consumers love their top selling items.

Tell us a bit more about Mifuko: 

Mifuko, which means “pocket” in Swahili, is a Finnish design company. The basic idea behind Mifuko is to combine Scandinavian design with traditional Kenyan handicraft techniques and, in this way, employ Kenyan artisans.

How would you describe your company’s design style?

Simple - pure Scandinavian style.

What are the influences and inspiration behind your designs?

We get inspired by many different things and techniques but, in particular, by nature in Kenya as well as in Finland. Sometimes our ideas come through long collaborations and sometimes they come in a passing moment. We love working together, just the two of us, but working with the artisans is also always very inspiring. Also, our travels in Kenya and participating in the leading design fairs around the world give us inspiration.

What are your bestsellers and what do you think makes them so popular?

Our bestsellers are the white, medium and large size baskets. Also, black and black and white designs sell very well. People love the simple design and shape combined together.

What are the latest trends in home décor?

Eco-friendly products are very popular. We believe that in the future people are more and more interested in the origin of their product. Who made it and where? Is the production ethical and sustainable?

How did you get started in interior design?

We both have studied and graduated from AALTO University’s School of Arts and Design in Helsinki.

What do you love most about your job?

We love the fact that our design has great impact on the artisans in Kenya.

What are your favorite materials, textures, and favorite colors to work with?

All materials can be beautiful as long as the design is well made. However, we particularly like handmade materials which have a bit of a rough surface and texture. For example, Finnish “palttina”, or plain weave, has a very beautiful texture.

All colors are our favorite ones! The secret is just to combine them and add the right amount to the right places.

What are your favorite places on earth?

The Kenyan countryside and, of course, our homes in Finland.

What item(s) in your home couldn’t you live without?

Well, almost all items we could live without, but without a bed, it would be quite uncomfortable!

Shop our selection of Mifuko baskets here.