Design is about much more than products – it is part of Finnish culture. Oulu-based Balmuir wants to make this visible during Oulu’s year as European Capital of Culture by bringing design and fashion experiences into the city’s cultural programme.
As Oulu celebrates its year as European Capital of Culture in 2026, one of the city’s best-known international design brands is returning to its roots. Although Balmuir’s collections are now designed in Helsinki and the brand is also known internationally, its story begins in the north.
Founded in 2007, lifestyle design brand Balmuir originates from the Oulu region, and this year the company is an Oulu2026 partner. The collaboration will be visible through new Oulu2026 products, events, and a desire to highlight northern aesthetics and Finnish design expertise as part of the Capital of Culture year.
– We want to celebrate our roots in the Oulu region and contribute to enriching the Capital of Culture year. At the same time, we want to strengthen Finland’s image as a home of high-quality design, says Keni Luhtanen, Balmuir’s Division Director.
The Capital of Culture year highlights art, experiences and local identity. Balmuir also wants to bring Finnish design into the conversation.
According to the brand, high-quality natural materials, timeless design and long-lasting use are part of the northern way of life. When products are designed to stand the test of time, both in terms of style and quality, they become part of everyday life for years to come.
For Balmuir, the collaboration with Oulu2026 is a natural way to bring together design, culture and local roots.
One of the most visible elements of the collaboration is Oulu2026 Fashion Night, where fashion, design and people come together. During the year, Balmuir will also organise other events and networking occasions and launch an Oulu2026 product collection, available at its Oulu store and selected retailers.
– The Capital of Culture year is a unique opportunity to showcase what Oulu and northern Finland as a whole have to offer. Through our contribution, we want to enrich the programme and invite everyone to join us in celebrating this special moment, says Jonna Drushinin-Venojärvi, Store Manager of Balmuir’s Oulu store.
Lifestyle Classics for a Harmonious Way of Living
Balmuir is a Finnish lifestyle design brand founded in 2007, with high-quality natural materials at its heart. The collections consist of carefully considered, timeless fashion and home decoration products, as well as customisable unique gift items.
Balmuir’s products are designed in Helsinki and have been awarded the Design from Finland label. The products are designed with a focus on long-lasting use, while carefully selected partners are responsible for manufacturing, with an emphasis on first-class quality and craftsmanship.
