The buzzy Finnish photographer and creator Janita Autio opens the door to a statement piece filled, purple powder dreamscape, encouraging us all to embrace the unapologetically bold this season
We’ve been hemmed in by strict, tone-on-tone interiors for too long. Soothing browns and beiges have been working overtime (to say the least) in our Scandinavian interiors for decades, but now there are increasing signs of people in the region rebelling against the design straitjacket of tradition. Self-taught photographer and content creator Janita Autio is very definitely one of them.
Seven years ago, Autio swapped Pattijoki, best known for its watercourse and natural landscapes, for bustling Helsinki, ready to switch up an already successful career. The move also saw her decide to embrace her passion for pastel shades. “I’ve always loved playing around with colour when photographing, especially pastels since they’re so uplifting,” she says. “A part of me thinks that me regularly going for pastels probably helped me establish myself, as a photographer and creator, in the first place.”
Photo: Arttu Mustonen
Photo: Arttu Mustonen
In 2021, Autio moved to her current apartment, and immediately felt a connection. “Ever since moving out of my childhood home, I’ve struggled to find a genuinely homely place to live. This time, it felt right from the start,” she says. The notable proximity to nature might have played its part. “Helsinki’s oldest park, Kaivopuisto, is pretty much my next door neighbour. I love that, having nature this close is like an extension of my favourite surroundings growing up.”
While her strong connection with nature oozes quintessential Scandi, her home interiors move in another direction. Never really seeing the appeal with muted tones, Autio decided to bring her love of colour in photography to her interiors, helped along by designer Peeta Peltola.
Cotton candy-like shades abound, light pinks and soft lilacs in particular. With the exception of a handful traces of white, her home fully embraces bold and daring. The look blends seamlessly with items from her wardrobe. “I’ve always gushed over pastel coloured clothes, so I thought, ‘It makes no sense keeping these gems out of the picture’. Now I’ve always got a few coats and other loved pieces on display.”
Photo: Arttu Mustonen
Photo: Arttu Mustonen
Asked about her favourite room, one spot truly highlights her unrelenting enthusiasm for lively colour: “My kitchen, for sure. I’ve never been much of a cook, but now you’re never not seeing me by the stove."
When it comes to cherished interior pieces, Autio mentions two juxtaposing details – one contemporary staple and one playful forerunner. “I’m madly in love with my lavender-coloured Curvy mirror by Gustaf Westman, it sets the tone. And my Togos, I added them to boost softness.”
If you’re eager to replicate the vibe or simply explore the realm of lively interiors, Autio advises you to start with the traditional Finnish tastemakers. “Iittala never goes out of style. Same with Eero Aarnio’s furniture, of course. Finnish Design Shop is a great store to visit, especially if you're in need of inspiration. Honestly, just go for it,” she says. “Try combining different colours and textures to achieve the lively feel. And dare to experiment, there are truly no rights or wrongs.”
Photo: Arttu Mustonen
Photo: Arttu Mustonen
Photo: Arttu Mustonen
Autio is certainly breaking with tradition, something she says doesn't fail to illicit responses in a region known for its low-key interiors. “Not a day goes by without someone questioning my choice of colour,” she laughs. “People are just like, ‘How do you even find this relaxing?’ But funnily enough, that’s exactly how I feel about neutrals. I need something bold in order to stay calm.”