Modern Icons: Marimekko Textiles
These Bold and Bright Finnish Fabrics Are More Popular Than Ever
Becky Harris
July 11, 2011
Houzz Contributor. Hi there! I live in a 1940s cottage in Atlanta that I'll describe as "collected."
I got into design via Landscape Architecture, which I studied at the University of Virginia.
Houzz Contributor. Hi there! I live in a 1940s cottage in Atlanta that I'll describe... More
Chances are, Marimekko textiles are on your radar even if you didn't know their name; if you've ever received a Crate and Barrel catalog, you'll recognize a 'mekko print when you see it. A big part of the mid-century modern boom, the company was started by Armi Ratia in Finland in 1951. The country was ready for bright bold prints after years of war, and Ratia was particularly ready to recognize talented women designers and break through glass ceilings. After Jackie Kennedy ordered up seven of their dresses and appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated wearing one in 1960, the brand became wildly popular in the U.S. It has remained so worldwide ever since.
Tip: Stretch fabric over a canvas for an inexpensive way to pack a big graphic punch.
This one is fashioned from a classic 'mekko print called KIVET (it's actually there to conceal the television). You can stretch the fabric over art canvases, buy kits (I recommend textile arts; their products are great and their customer service is superb), or buy hangings already put together.
This one is fashioned from a classic 'mekko print called KIVET (it's actually there to conceal the television). You can stretch the fabric over art canvases, buy kits (I recommend textile arts; their products are great and their customer service is superb), or buy hangings already put together.
Case in point: Blogger Red Jet Whistle created a modern wall hanging with this vintage 'mekko fabric. Etsy and eBay are good sources for finding such pieces.
See the rest of this creative home
See the rest of this creative home
This exuberant poppy print, called UNIKKO, was designed by Marimekko great Maija Isola in 1964. It has become wonderfully ubiquitous thanks to all of the products Crate and Barrel has created using it (Crate has had the exclusive U.S. rights to Marimekko prints for decades). Though very popular, I don't believe that this print has ever hit the tipping point. It's timeless, and it comes in a range of scales and colors.
Side Note: I love this little cribbed conversation that appears on the Marimekko U.S. website, explaining how UNIKKO came to be:
Armi Ratia: “No flower patterns.”
Maija Isola: “Why not?”
Armi Ratia: “Because they can never match the beauty of a real flower.”
Thankfully, Isola took this as a challenge and created what is now one of the most quintessential Marimekko prints.
Side Note: I love this little cribbed conversation that appears on the Marimekko U.S. website, explaining how UNIKKO came to be:
Armi Ratia: “No flower patterns.”
Maija Isola: “Why not?”
Armi Ratia: “Because they can never match the beauty of a real flower.”
Thankfully, Isola took this as a challenge and created what is now one of the most quintessential Marimekko prints.
Interior designer Tara Seawright solved the problem of furnishing a small bedroom by using this stretched canvas to serve as a tall headboard. Unlike those hot Prada heels, it doesn't take up any floor space.
Tip: If you have a small or ho-hum bathroom, try a large-scale print shower curtain (I did).
This shower curtain, with its large scene of Scandinavian birch tree print, can completely transform a bathroom.
This shower curtain, with its large scene of Scandinavian birch tree print, can completely transform a bathroom.
On a smaller scale, KAIKU makes a lovely screensaver.
These KIVET Butterfly Chair covers add welcome color to this contemporary house in the desert.
Similarly, a framed UNIKKO print brings color to this bathroom.
KIVET in black and gray is modern and masculine. The circles are not perfect, which adds personality and keeps it from being totally dotty.
Marimekko napkins play off the striped pendant light.
This wavy LOKKI pattern lends contemporary sophistication and curves to this contemporary dining room.
Marimekko TUULI throw pillows add inky black, abstracted trees to the bedscape.
My own appreciation for all things Marimekko can be traced back to my aunt, Sally Wittenberg. She bedecked every bedroom in her Berkshires lake house with Marimekko linens and every bathroom with ‘mekko towels. She also introduced me to Dansk, Catherine Holm and all things Scandinavian modern.
See the rest of this Berkshires lake house
See the rest of this Berkshires lake house
Another Aunt Sally bedroom ...
... and another! Marimekko looks great with her museum posters.
Textile Arts
Marimekko recently came out with a wallpaper line; now you can cover entire walls with your favorite prints.
Textile Arts
This apron is sewn from another classic Marimekko print, called MELOONI. It makes a great hostess gift for the Aunt Sally types in your life.
Not interested in typical nursery decor? Get this crazy rocker and design the entire room around it. As your child grows up, you can move it into your den, study or family room.
Marimekko
It's possible I'll start drinking tea if it's an excuse to keep this kettle out on my stove 24/7.
Textile Arts
Marimekko tomes are so inspiring. We've covered just housewares here, but the fashion and the architecture are also remarkable.
More Marimekko Products Houzz Writers Have Selected
Houzz Tour: A Joyous Home in Norway
A Scandinavian Inspired Staycation
More Marimekko Products Houzz Writers Have Selected
Houzz Tour: A Joyous Home in Norway
A Scandinavian Inspired Staycation
Buckeye Basements, Inc. is a multi-award winning company that provides complete basement remodeling and finishing... Read More
What are you working on?
Related Products
Related Stories
Kitchen Makeovers
Kitchen of the Week: Beer, Shuffleboard and Pizza Bring the Fun
Entertaining features and a warm industrial style create a lively atmosphere in this revamped Craftsman bungalow space
Full Story
Trending Now
The 10 Most Popular Bedrooms So Far in 2024
By Becky Harris
Feather your nest in style with inspiration from Houzz readers’ most-saved bedroom photos
Full Story
Working With Pros
Which Pro Should You Hire for Your Project?
Find out whether you need a contractor, an architect, an interior designer or another professional for the job
Full Story
Bathroom Makeovers
Bathroom of the Week: Accessibility and a Relaxing Vibe
By Becky Harris
A design-build firm uses universal design principles when expanding a family bath
Full Story
Housekeeping
How to Clean Your Windows and Keep Them Streak-Free
Try these tips, tricks and tools to wash your windows so they’re crystal clear
Full Story
Entryways
The 10 Most Popular Entries and Mudrooms So Far in 2024
Get ideas for storage setups, color schemes and special details from the most-saved entry photos so far this year
Full Story
Kitchen Design
30 Bold and Beautiful Range Backsplashes
Get ideas for eye-catching tile and stone backsplashes inside stove alcoves and behind cooktops
Full Story
Porches
Porch of the Week: Catching a Breeze in Austin, Texas
By Becky Harris
The new screened-in space has a beautiful fireplace as a focal point and includes lounging and dining spaces
Full Story
Landscape Design
Before and After: 4 Landscapes That Bring Resort Style Home
Stunning fire pits, luxurious pools, elegant entertaining zones and other relaxing spots give these yards vacation vibes
Full Story
Trending Now
The 10 Most Popular Home Offices So Far in 2024
By Julie Sheer
Get inspired by these stylish workspaces where designers pair comfort with practicality
Full Story
Interesting to get a little background on these fabrics. I remembered them as far back as the 70's when a Marimekko shop was opened in my area, but also didn't know they went that far back.