Nikari: A Legacy of Finnish Craftsmanship

​​​At the beginning of this year, we received product from Finnish design company Nikari at 110 Drury Lane for the first time. In light of this, we wanted to take the opportunity to delve into the company’s interesting history.

Nikari, founded in 1967 by master cabinetmaker Kari Virtanen, has long been a symbol of Finnish craftsmanship and design excellence. Growing up in the South Ostrobothnia region of Finland, at an early age Virtanen developed a deep connection to the forests around him, which naturally sparked an interest in woodworking. His early fascination with these raw materials was nurtured under the guidance of elder master cabinetmakers. After advancing to pattern maker—a specialist in creating precise templates, jigs, and models to ensure accuracy, consistency, and efficiency in furniture production—he boldly established his own workshop at just nineteen, embarking on a journey that would span over five decades.

The company’s name, Nikari, seamlessly merges the Finnish word ’nikkari’ (cabinet maker) with Virtanen’s own first name, Kari. From its very inception, Nikari set out with a clear vision: to create high-quality wooden furniture that marries modern design sensibilities with the traditional woodworking techniques that have long been a hallmark of Finnish craftsmanship. The company’s focus on utilising real materials, combined with sustainable and ethical production methods, has continued to shape its identity, and guide its collections to this day.

In its formative years, Nikari operated as a small, one-man studio in Seinäjoki, Finland, at the Nikkarinkoski joinery. Early collaborations with some of Finland’s most influential designers, such as the iconic architect Alvar Aalto and the renowned designer Kaj Franck, proved to be formative for Nikari. These partnerships provided valuable opportunities to develop the company’s design philosophy and solidified its reputation for precision, quality, and innovation. As a result, Nikari quickly became known not only for its impeccable craftsmanship but also for its unique ability to fuse contemporary design with the deep tradition of Finnish woodworking. The company’s growth mirrored that of its founder, as Virtanen continued to evolve his craft.

In 1993, the company made a significant move to Fiskars Village, a historic location with rich industrial heritage and lush varieties of trees. The region’s abundance of high-quality timber from native species, such as Finnish pine and birch, allowed Virtanen and his team to deepen their expertise in wood selection and working techniques. This move to Fiskars was pivotal in establishing Nikari as an integral part of the Finnish design landscape.

The workshop is located in Finland’s oldest machinery works, situated alongside the Fiskars River rapids. In 2014, these rapids were re-equipped to produce hydroelectric power for the workshop, allowing Nikari to further align its production with sustainability principles. An adjacent sawmill facilitates an efficient and collaborative workflow, making the entire production process more integrated and seamless. The creative energy of the village, which was quickly becoming a hub for artisans and designers, helped cement Fiskars’ reputation as Finland’s creative hub. It was here that Nikari truly found its home, surrounded by a community of like-minded individuals who share its dedication to craftsmanship and innovation.

At the heart of Nikari’s work lies an unwavering respect for the materials it uses. Drawing from the Finnish forests, Nikari’s skilled cabinetmakers transform raw wood into finely crafted furniture using time-honoured techniques, while constantly striving to innovate and push the boundaries of design. Each piece of modern furniture reflects a harmonious balance between tradition and modernity, offering clean lines and straightforward Nordic design aesthetics. Below is the December Lounge Chair designed by Jasper Morrison and Wataru Kumano, which is on display at 110 Drury Lane, along with the medium April table designed by Alfredo Häberli.

Nikari’s dedication to sustainability is evident in every aspect of its production process. The company’s commitment to sourcing certified wood from local forests ensures that each piece is not only environmentally responsible but also of the highest quality. This focus on sustainability extends beyond the materials to the entire production process, with Nikari continually seeking ways to minimise waste, reduce energy consumption, and embrace ethical practices.

As Nikari looks toward the future, its core values remain unchanged; the company continues to produce furniture that is both aesthetically pleasing and built to last. Nikari’s skilled craftsmen, many of whom have honed their expertise over decades of work, continue to refine their craft and innovate with new techniques and designs. The company’s mission to create beautiful, functional, and sustainable furniture remains as strong as ever.