UPM takes part in creating Finnish design by developing new materials that inspire designers and architects.
Creative collaborations can turn new products made from recycled materials into world-class top design. One example of fresh Finnish design will be created in the World Design Capital Helsinki 2012 project, in the form of a pavilion built out of wooden materials from UPM.
UPM has previously worked with creative companies such as Artek. The renowned Japanese architect Shigeru Ban designed the Artek Pavilion for the 2007 Milan Furniture Fair. The construction material was UPM’s ProFi composite. The same material was used for the 10-UNIT SYSTEM furniture range, designed by Ban for Artek. UPM also played a central role in showcasing Finnish design at the Shanghai EXPO 2010. The award-winning ‘Kirnu’ pavilion brought together Finnish architecture with the eco-friendly UPM ProFi, which was used for the ultra-modern shingles that coated the pavilion’s outer walls.
UPM wood has also been used for building a design hotel. The Wisa Wooden Design Hotel was the result of a design competition organised by UPM. Its construction took into account the diverse possibilities and environmental aspects of wood. UPM’s design collaborations also extend into the world of paper and magazines. Wallpaper magazine, known as the ‘Bible of design’, and the high-class lifestyle magazine Monocle have both published special issues in cooperation with UPM.