In the heart of Utopia's core values lies a conscious approach to design, embracing the beauty of nature. Rooted in my Finnish origin, I embarked on an extraordinary journey of cultural exploration to Japan. Today, we invite you to join us as we unravel the inspiring tale behind our newest collection, the Japan Edition, set to launch this September 2023.

I always have been drawn to Japanese culture as I found there are a lot of similarities with Finland:

A deep respect for nature and its importance in daily life.
Appreciation for simplicity and minimalism in design and aesthetics. Finnish design, known for its clean lines and functional approach, mirrors the Japanese aesthetic principles of "wabi-sabi," which embraces imperfection and simplicity in beauty.
Both cultures have a rich history of design and innovation.

In Winter 23, I followed my calling to visit Japan and explore local crafts. My main destination were Fukui and Kyoto. Between enjoying the beauty of local nature, architecture, and perfect imperfections, I visited workshops of paper lantern makers, glass blowers, and wood makers. Here, in the workshops of local artisans, I witnessed their unwavering dedication to craft passed down through generations, keeping the tradition alive and vibrant.

When visiting Fukui I got lucky to meet Motoyoshi, who creates in his family workshop. Wood is widespread in Europe, but the Japanese have their signature way of creating super thin wood.